These air fryer pork chops are juicy and delicious without the fuss! With a crispy outside and tender inside, they come together quickly and taste amazing.
I love how easy they are to make—just season, pop them in the air fryer, and voilà! Perfect for dinner on busy nights. You’ll want to make these again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend bone-in pork chops for their flavor and juiciness. If you only have boneless chops, they work too, but watch the cooking time as they cook faster. You can also use thick-cut loin chops or even pork steaks!
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps the seasoning stick, but other oils like avocado or canola can be used instead. They have a high smoke point and will work just as well.
Paprika: This spice gives a nice color and flavor. For a kick, swap it for smoked paprika or chili powder. If you’re not a fan of heat, sweet paprika is a milder choice.
Garlic and Onion Powder: Both add depth of flavor, but if you prefer fresh, you can use minced garlic and onion instead—about a clove of garlic and a teaspoon of fresh onion per chop. Adjust according to taste!
Rosemary: Dried rosemary is great, but fresh is fantastic if you can get it! Thyme or sage are lovely substitutes too, providing a different twist to the flavor.
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Crispy in the Air Fryer?
The key to crispy pork chops in the air fryer is proper seasoning and air flow. Here’s how to nail it:
- Pat the pork chops dry. This removes excess moisture and allows for better browning.
- Don’t skip the pre-heating. This ensures even cooking and crispy edges from the start.
- Keep the chops in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the air fryer. This helps the heat circulate around each piece.
- Flip halfway through cooking for an even crispiness. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer for doneness—145°F (63°C) is perfect!
- Let them rest after cooking. This keeps all the juices inside, resulting in tender and moist pork chops.
How to Make 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
For the Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary or fresh finely chopped rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Air Fryer:
- Cooking spray or additional olive oil for air fryer basket
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 5 minutes for prep and about 12 minutes of cooking time in the air fryer. So, you can have these tasty pork chops ready in about 20 minutes or less. Quick and easy!
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 encourages a nice, golden-brown crust when cooked.
2. Add Olive Oil:
Brush both sides of each pork chop with olive oil. This adds flavor and helps the seasoning adhere to the meat.
3. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to mix the spices evenly.
4. Season the Chops:
Sprinkle the seasoning mix generously over both sides of the pork chops. Use your fingers to press the seasoning in gently, ensuring it sticks well.
5. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture.
6. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with a little olive oil to prevent the pork chops from sticking.
7. Cook the Pork Chops:
Place the seasoned pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overlapping for even cooking. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time.
8. Check for Doneness:
When the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the outside is golden brown and crispy, your pork chops are done! Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
9. Rest and Serve:
Remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making them even more juicy and flavorful.
10. Enjoy:
Serve your delicious air fryer pork chops with roasted or sautéed vegetables like Brussels sprouts or your favorite sides. Dig in and enjoy!
Your juicy and flavorful air fryer pork chops are ready to be enjoyed with a perfect crispy crust!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can certainly use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they may cook a little faster than bone-in chops, so start checking them at around 8-10 minutes for doneness.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Before Cooking?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops for at least 30 minutes can enhance the flavor. You can use a simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices. Just remember to pat them dry before seasoning to ensure crispiness!
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 up in the air fryer for a few minutes to retain their crispiness, or use the microwave but be careful not to overcook them.
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, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
