Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade air fryer pork chops that are crispy on the outside, yet tender and juicy on the inside. This easy baking recipe uses simple pantry ingredients for a flavorful crust and requires minimal oil compared to traditional frying methods, delivering restaurant-quality results in minutes.

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

10 mins

Cook Time:

12 mins

Serves:

4 pork chops

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">4 boneless pork chops (about 150g each, 2.5cm thick)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp olive oil</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp garlic powder</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp paprika</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp dried thyme</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp salt</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp ground black pepper</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp brown sugar (optional)</li> </ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 pork chop

🔥 Calories: 310 calories

🥑 Fat: 18 g

🧈 Saturated Fat: 5 g

🍞 Carbohydrates: 2 g

🍭 Sugar: 0 g

🍗 Protein: 35 g

🫀 Cholesterol: 110 mg

🧂 Sodium: 380 mg

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">Air fryer</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Meat thermometer</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Basting brush</li> </ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Take your pork chops out of the refrigerator about 15-20 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking throughout the meat. Pat them completely dry with paper towels - this is crucial for achieving a good sear in the air fryer. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar (if using). Mix thoroughly to create your dry rub. The brown sugar helps with caramelization and creates a beautiful crust without making the dish sweet. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> Brush each pork chop lightly with olive oil on both sides. This helps the seasoning adhere and promotes browning. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over both sides of each pork chop, pressing gently to help it adhere to the meat. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Preheat your air fryer to 200°C for about 3 minutes. Preheating is essential for achieving that initial sear that locks in juices and creates a crispy exterior. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Place the seasoned pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don't overlap or touch (you may need to cook in batches depending on your air fryer size). Giving the chops space allows hot air to circulate fully around them for even cooking. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> Cook the pork chops at 200°C for 5 minutes, then flip them over and continue cooking for another 4-7 minutes. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chops and your air fryer model. For perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 63-65°C for medium (the temperature will rise slightly during resting). </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4> Once cooked, immediately remove the pork chops from the air fryer and place them on a plate. Tent loosely with aluminum foil and allow them to rest for 5 minutes. This crucial resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat rather than running out when cut, resulting in much juicier pork chops. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4> Serve your air fryer pork chops while still warm. They pair beautifully with applesauce, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. If you'd like, you can garnish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving to brighten the flavors. </li> </ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe?

This recipe uses 4 boneless pork chops, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and optional brown sugar. These simple pantry ingredients create a flavourful crust while the air fryer cooking method ensures juicy results with minimal oil.

How to cook Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe at home?

Learn how to cook Air Fryer Pork Chops by first bringing the meat to room temperature and patting dry. Create a dry rub with seasonings, coat the chops with oil and seasonings, then cook in a preheated air fryer at 200°C for about 5 minutes per side until they reach 63-65°C internally. Rest for 5 minutes before serving for perfectly juicy results.

What's the ideal thickness for pork chops when using an air fryer?

The ideal thickness for air fryer pork chops is about 2-2.5cm (around 1 inch). This thickness allows the chops to cook evenly with a crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy interior. Thinner chops may dry out quickly, while thicker ones might require adjusted cooking times.

How can you tell when pork chops are perfectly cooked in an air fryer?

Perfectly cooked pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 63-65°C when measured with a meat thermometer. They'll have a golden-brown exterior and slightly pink centre. Always let them rest for 5 minutes after cooking, as the temperature will rise slightly and juices will redistribute.

What are the best side dishes to serve with air-fried pork chops?

Air-fried pork chops pair beautifully with applesauce, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, consider adding sweet potato fries (also made in the air fryer!), steamed green beans, or coleslaw to complement the savoury flavours of the pork.

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