These air fryer pork chops are quick, juicy, and packed with flavor! The best part? They get that crispy outside without all the oil, making them healthier and delicious.
I love how fast they cook—just season, pop them in, and in no time, dinner’s ready! Perfect for busy nights when you just want yummy food. 🐷💨
Pair them with some mashed potatoes or veggies for a meal that’s both easy and tasty. Trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops give great flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops. Both will work well, just be mindful of the cooking time; boneless cooks a bit quicker.
Olive Oil: This helps the spices adhere and contributes to browning. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil or canola oil work as good alternatives.
Garlic Powder: It adds rich flavor without the hassle of peeling and chopping fresh garlic. You can swap it with onion powder for a milder taste or even fresh minced garlic if you prefer.
Smoked Paprika: For that nice smokiness! If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika can be a substitute. You may lose some smokiness but it’ll still taste great!
How Do I Get the Perfect Crisp on My Pork Chops?
Achieving that delicious crispy exterior with juicy meat inside is key! Here’s how to do it:
- First, make sure you preheat your air fryer. This is important for achieving that crispy crust.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and allows for better browning.
- Don’t skip the olive oil. A light brush on both sides improves the crispiness.
- Air fry the chops in a single layer without crowding. Give them space for hot air to circulate, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.
- Finally, let them rest after cooking. This locks in the juices for flavorful, moist chops.
With these tips, you’ll impress anyone with your perfectly cooked air fryer pork chops!
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 smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This air fryer pork chops recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at approximately 20 minutes from start to finish. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for around 5 minutes. This step ensures that your pork chops will cook evenly and get that nice crispy exterior.
2. Get Your Chops Ready:
Use paper towels to pat the pork chops dry, removing any excess moisture. This will help them crisp up better. Then, brush both sides with olive oil—this not only helps the seasoning stick but also adds flavor and promotes browning.
3. Season the Pork Chops:
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix these together well. Now, rub the entire spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork chops to make sure they are well-seasoned.
4. Air Fry the Chops:
Carefully place the pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overlap. This ensures they cook uniformly. Set the timer for 12-15 minutes, flipping the chops halfway through cooking. They are done when their internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the outside is beautifully browned.
5. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This resting time is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
If you like, garnish your pork chops with fresh thyme sprigs for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Pair them with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables or Brussels sprouts, for a complete meal. Enjoy these perfectly juicy, crispy air fryer pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used, but remember they may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness a couple of minutes earlier.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will work too. You’ll lose the smoky flavor, but the dish will still be delicious!
How Can I Tell If My Pork Chops Are Done?
The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer. Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they’re safe to eat and still juicy!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
Definitely! Marinating your pork chops in the seasoning mix and olive oil for a few hours or overnight can add even more flavor. Just remember to pat them dry before air frying for that perfect crisp!
