These Air Fryer Pork Chops are juicy and crispy—just the way we like them! They cook up quickly, making dinner a breeze. Plus, you get that fried taste without all the oil!
I love how easy it is to season and toss them in the air fryer. In no time, I’m enjoying perfectly cooked pork chops. They’re great with veggies or mashed potatoes. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless chops will work too, but watch the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick. If you’re out of olive oil, you can use avocado oil or canola oil instead, both have high smoke points.
Garlic & Onion Powder: These give a lovely depth of flavor. Feel free to substitute fresh minced garlic and onion if you prefer a stronger taste.
Paprika: I love using smoked paprika for its unique flavor. Sweet paprika is fine too. If you can’t find either, a bit of cayenne can add a nice kick!
Dried Thyme: This herb enhances the flavor. If you have fresh thyme, use it! The flavor will be even better. You can also swap in Italian seasoning for a different spin.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops are Juicy and Flavorful?
To get juicy pork chops, pat them dry before seasoning. This helps the spices stick and promotes browning. Don’t skip the oil; it locks in moisture.
- Preheat your air fryer to get a nice crust on the outside. This makes a big difference in texture!
- Make sure to check the internal temperature. 145°F is the target for perfectly cooked chops.
- Let them rest after cooking! This allows the juices to redistribute, so every bite is tender.
Enjoy making these delicious Air Fryer Pork Chops that pack great flavor without a lot of fuss!
How to Make Delicious Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 2 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Optional: cooked Brussels sprouts or your preferred vegetable as a side
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 5 minutes to prep and around 12 minutes to cook in the air fryer. After that, let your pork chops rest for about 3-5 minutes before serving. So in total, you’re looking at a quick and easy 20-25 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the seasoning stick better and ensures the chops get that lovely crispy texture when cooked.
2. Season the Chops:
Drizzle olive oil evenly over both sides of the pork chops. This not only adds flavor but helps create that golden crust. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Rub this seasoning mix generously on all sides of the pork chops for a full flavor.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to preheat at 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crust!
4. Cook the Pork Chops:
Carefully place the seasoned pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they don’t overlap for best results. Set the air fryer to cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the chops halfway through. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety and optimal taste.
5. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy by allowing the juices to redistribute.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and serve with lemon wedges to brighten up the flavors. Pair these tasty chops with roasted or air-fried Brussels sprouts or your favorite vegetable side dish for a complete meal!
Enjoy your crispy, juicy Air Fryer Pork Chops with a flavorful and slightly smoky crust!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work, but they may cook a little faster. Just be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Paprika?
No worries! If you don’t have paprika, you can use cayenne pepper for some heat or just skip it altogether. The other seasonings will still give your pork chops great flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the air fryer or microwave—just be careful not to overcook them.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Before Cooking?
Sure! Marinating the pork chops for a couple of hours or overnight can enhance the flavor even more. Use a simple marinade with olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs or spices for extra zing.
