These Air Fryer Pork Chops are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside—yum! A quick seasoning and about 15 minutes in the air fryer make dinner super easy.
You won’t believe how fast these cook! Sometimes I serve them with a side of veggies or just enjoy them as a tasty snack. Perfect for a busy day! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are juicy and flavorful. If you can’t find them, boneless pork chops will work too. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may cook a bit faster.
Olive Oil: This adds a nice richness. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil is a great option for its high smoke point.
Seasonings: The garlic and onion powders provide excellent flavor. If you’re out of these, fresh minced garlic and onion can be used but may require adjusting the quantity. Smoked paprika adds depth, but regular paprika can substitute well if you don’t have it.
Herbs: Dried thyme or Italian seasoning works wonderfully here. If fresh herbs are available, use them for an extra burst of flavor!
How Do You Get the Perfect Sear on Air Fryer Pork Chops?
To achieve that irresistible golden crust, start by patting the pork chops dry. Moisture will steam the meat instead of searing it!
- Brush both sides with olive oil. This not only helps with browning but also adds flavor.
- A generous coating of spices ensures a tasty exterior. Feel free to adjust quantities to suit your taste!
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; this allows hot air to circulate evenly for that crisp finish.
Remember to let them rest after cooking! This step is key for juicy pork chops—you’ll want to keep all that delicious moisture in!
Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes for prep, plus around 12-15 minutes of cooking time. Altogether, you’re looking at about 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that your pork chops cook evenly and get that nice crispy texture.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This is super important because removing excess moisture helps them get a better sear. Then, brush both sides with olive oil—it adds flavor and helps the spices stick!
3. Season the Chops:
In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme. Sprinkle this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops, ensuring they are well-coated for great flavor.
4. Cook in the Air Fryer:
Place the seasoned pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they don’t overlap to allow for even cooking. Cook at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on the internal temperature; they should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
5. Let Them Rest:
Once your pork chops are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This helps keep the juices locked inside, making them tender and delicious.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your chops with fresh chopped parsley if you’d like, and serve them hot with your favorite sides. Roasted Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully!
Enjoy your crispy, juicy air fryer pork chops—they’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Should I Serve with Air Fryer Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair well with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Roasted Brussels sprouts are a personal favorite!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the air fryer for a few minutes on a low setting to keep them juicy, or microwave them if you’re short on time.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Instead of Just Seasoning Them?
Definitely! Marinating the pork chops for a few hours or overnight will enhance the flavor even more. Just be sure to pat them dry before air frying to ensure they get crispy!
