These Air Fryer Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor! With a crispy outside and tender inside, they’re an easy dinner that cooks quickly—perfect for busy nights!
I love how these pork chops stay moist while getting that nice crunch. Pair them with some veggies, and you’ve got a tasty meal in no time. Who knew dinner could be this simple? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal for this recipe because the bone adds flavor and helps keep them juicy. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work too, but be sure to adjust cooking time as they might cook faster.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness and helps the seasoning stick, but you can use avocado oil or vegetable oil if you prefer. They also have high smoke points perfect for air frying!
Seasonings: The mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika is key for flavor. If you’re out of smoked paprika, use regular paprika or even chili powder for a kick. Fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano could also be nice substitutes.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
To keep pork chops juicy, start with patting them dry to create a nice sear and rub in the olive oil to lock in moisture. The seasoning should coat the chops evenly without overpowering them. Cooking them at a high temperature in the air fryer helps seal in the juices quickly.
- Preheat the air fryer to set the cooking environment right.
- Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for the best texture.
- Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and flavorful!
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 (plus extra fresh thyme for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes in total: 5 minutes for prep and about 12-15 minutes to cook in the air fryer. Plus, you’ll want to let your pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking to ensure they stay juicy. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps get the pork chops crispy as they cook.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
While the air fryer is heating, pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is key for achieving a nice sear! Then, drizzle olive oil over the pork chops and rub it in to coat them evenly.
3. Season the Chops:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture generously on both sides of the pork chops, gently pressing it in to adhere.
4. Cook in the Air Fryer:
Place the seasoned pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overlapping. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and are golden and crispy on the outside.
5. Rest and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps the juices settle. Before serving, garnish with some fresh thyme sprigs for a burst of flavor!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful air fryer pork chops with a crisp crust! Serve them with your favorite sides and dig in! 😋
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster—aim for about 10-12 minutes total, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can substitute it with regular paprika or chili powder for a little extra heat. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to warm them up without drying them out.
Can I Freeze Cooked Pork Chops?
Absolutely! Just ensure the pork chops are cooled completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.