These air fryer pork chops are juicy, crispy, and oh-so-easy to make! Just season them up, pop them in the air fryer, and in no time, you’ll have a tasty meal ready to enjoy.
I love how quick and simple this recipe is. Plus, the air fryer gives a wonderful crunch without all the fuss of frying! You’ll feel like a kitchen pro without breaking a sweat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I suggest using bone-in chops for extra flavor and juiciness. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work too. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they might cook a bit faster.
Olive Oil: It adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick to the pork. If you prefer, you could substitute with avocado oil or vegetable oil—they all work well in the air fryer.
Spices: Paprika really brings out a lovely color and flavor. If you want a little heat, consider using smoked paprika or cayenne pepper. Fresh herbs can also be a great addition instead of dried thyme—be sure to adjust the quantity as fresh herbs are stronger.
Brussels Sprouts: These are delicious as a side! You can swap them for other veggies like green beans or carrots, or even make a quick salad if you’re in the mood for something lighter.
How Can You Get Air Fryer Pork Chops Extra Crispy?
To achieve perfectly crispy pork chops, moisture is your enemy. Make sure to pat the pork chops dry before seasoning. Here’s a simple way to ensure they cook beautifully:
- Preheat the air fryer—it helps start the cooking process instantly.
- Ensure the pork chops are evenly coated with oil and seasoning. Press the spices into the meat for better adhesion.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; give the pork chops space to air fry evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Pull them out at 145°F (63°C) for juicy meat.
- Let them rest before serving—this helps the juices settle for a more tender bite.
Enjoy your cooking! Your air fryer pork chops will be a hit!
Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: cooked Brussels sprouts, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 5 minutes for preparation and 12-15 minutes for cooking, totaling around 20-25 minutes until you can enjoy your delicious air fryer pork chops. The rest period after cooking is an additional 3-5 minutes, so keep that in mind!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for approximately 5 minutes. This step helps ensure that the pork chops will cook evenly and get that perfect crispy texture!
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, pat the pork chops dry. This helps achieve a nice crisp surface when cooking. Then, brush both sides of the pork chops with olive oil. This will help the seasoning stick and add flavor!
3. Mix the Spices:
In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning mix will add tons of flavor to the pork chops, so make sure it’s evenly mixed.
4. Season the Pork Chops:
Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of each pork chop. Be sure to press down gently so the spices adhere well to the surface.
5. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Place the seasoned pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. It’s important not to overcrowd the basket; this allows the hot air to circulate properly and cook the pork chops evenly.
6. Cook the Pork Chops:
Cook the pork chops for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The outside should be nicely browned and crispy.
7. Let Them Rest:
Once the pork chops are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite every time!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pork chops with your favorite sides, like sautéed or air-fried Brussels sprouts. Don’t forget to garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme for an extra touch! Dig in and enjoy your perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful air fryer pork chops!
Happy cooking!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier.
What Can I Do If I Don’t Have Paprika?
If you don’t have paprika on hand, you can substitute it with chili powder for a bit of heat or simply omit it. You could also try using some Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy exterior, or gently warm them in the microwave.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Before Cooking?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops for a few hours or overnight can enhance the flavor significantly. Just be sure to pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to achieve that desired crispy texture.
