Air Fryer Pork Chops
Juicy, perfectly seasoned air fryer pork chops with a golden crust ready in just 20 minutes — delivering 38g of protein per serving at only 310 calories with minimal cleanup.
10m
4
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Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick, 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Pork Chops
Remove the pork chops from the refrigerator 10 minutes before cooking to take the chill off. Pat them completely dry on all sides with paper towels — this is the key to achieving a golden, crispy exterior in the air fryer.
- 2
Mix the Seasoning Rub
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried Italian seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and brown sugar. Stir until evenly mixed.
- 3
Season the Pork Chops
Brush both sides of each pork chop with olive oil. Generously sprinkle and press the seasoning rub onto both sides and the edges of each chop, ensuring full even coverage.
- 4
Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Preheating ensures the pork chops begin cooking immediately on contact, helping to lock in juices and create a better sear.
- 5
Air Fry the Pork Chops
Place the seasoned pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping or touching. Cook at 400°F for 6 minutes on the first side.
- 6
Flip and Finish Cooking
Carefully flip each pork chop using tongs. Cook for an additional 5 to 6 minutes, until the internal temperature reads 145°F (63°C) on an instant-read thermometer. Cooking time may vary slightly based on thickness and air fryer model.
- 7
Rest and Serve
Transfer the pork chops to a plate and let them rest for 3 to 5 minutes before cutting. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping every bite moist and tender. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Chef's Tips
For the juiciest results, never skip the resting period after cooking — even 3 minutes makes a significant difference. If your pork chops are thinner than 3/4 inch, reduce cooking time by 2 minutes per side to avoid drying them out. Bone-in pork chops work equally well but may need 1 to 2 extra minutes of cook time. Always verify doneness with an instant-read thermometer targeting 145°F. For extra flavor, marinate the chops in the olive oil and spices for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator before air frying.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about making this air fryer pork chops
How long does it take to make Air Fryer Pork Chops?
This recipe takes 22 minutes total time, including 10 minutes prep time and 12 minutes cooking time.
How many servings does this Air Fryer Pork Chops recipe make?
This recipe yields 4 servings.
What is the difficulty level of this Air Fryer Pork Chops recipe?
This recipe is rated as Easy difficulty level, making it perfect for beginners.
Can I make substitutions in this Air Fryer Pork Chops recipe?
Yes, you can make substitutions, but they may affect the final result. Common substitutions include using different types of ingredients for dietary restrictions or personal preferences.
Can I make this air fryer pork chops ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this air fryer pork chops up to 1 day ahead. Assemble the dish completely, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bring to room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if needed.
How do I store leftover air fryer pork chops?
Store leftover air fryer pork chops covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
What side dishes go well with air fryer pork chops?
This air fryer pork chops pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, or crusty bread. For a complete meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or a protein of your choice.
Can I freeze air fryer pork chops?
Yes, this air fryer pork chops freezes well for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or store in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.