These air fryer pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! Cooking them in an air fryer makes them crispy on the outside while staying tender inside. Yum!
I love how quick and easy it is to make these chops. Just season, pop them in the air fryer, and in no time, dinner is served! Perfect for busy weeknights! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are my favorite for flavor and juiciness. If you only have boneless chops, that works too! Just reduce the cooking time by a few minutes since they cook faster.
Olive Oil: This helps the seasonings stick and keeps the chops moist. Feel free to swap it with avocado oil or melted butter for a different flavor.
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried herbs give a delicious flavor. You can swap smoked paprika with regular paprika for less smokiness, or try adding cayenne pepper for heat!
Fresh herbs: I like to add rosemary or thyme for garnish. You can use any fresh herb you have on hand, like parsley or chives, to brighten the dish.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Juicy Pork Chops?
To keep your pork chops juicy, pat them dry before seasoning. This helps the outside get crispy. Also, let them rest after cooking! This gives the juices time to settle. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Preheat the air fryer – it helps cook evenly.
- Don’t crowd the basket; give them space for air circulation.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer for best results.
Following these tips will lead to perfectly cooked pork chops every time!
How to Make Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 12-15 minutes to cook. So, in just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for around 5 minutes. This step is essential for achieving that crispy outside on your pork chops.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture, ensuring they get nice and crispy when cooking.
3. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme (or rosemary), salt, and pepper. Mix them well to create your seasoning blend.
4. Season the Chops:
Brush both sides of the pork chops with olive oil. Next, rub the seasoning mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork chops, ensuring they’re fully coated.
5. Air Frying Time:
Place the seasoned pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not overlapping. Air fry them for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and develop a nice, brown crust.
6. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, take the pork chops out of the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This waiting period allows the juices to redistribute, which helps keep them juicy.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Garnish your pork chops with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for an extra touch. Serve them alongside roasted or air-fried vegetables, like Brussels sprouts, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful air fryer pork chops! They make for a fantastic weeknight dinner that’s quick and satisfying! 🍽️
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed pork chops for even cooking. If you only have frozen chops, be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave before seasoning and cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Smoked Paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika or a mix of paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer or microwave, making sure they’re warmed through without drying out.
Can I Cook Other Vegetables Alongside the Pork Chops in the Air Fryer?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or potatoes to the air fryer. Just make sure the vegetables are cut into similar sizes for even cooking, and adjust the cooking time as needed based on their type and size.
