These juicy air fryer pork chops are a real treat! They are perfectly seasoned and cook in a flash, so you can enjoy a tasty dinner without the fuss.
Cooking them in the air fryer means they stay tender and have a nice crispy edge. Can’t resist sneaking bites while they cool—who can? 😋
I love how quick these pork chops are to prepare. Just season, place in the fryer, and dinner is ready in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are ideal for this recipe, but you can use bone-in chops for extra flavor. If you want something leaner, try chicken breasts or thick-cut turkey cutlets instead.
Olive Oil: While olive oil adds a nice flavor, you can substitute with avocado oil for a high smoke point or vegetable oil if you prefer a neutral taste.
Seasonings: The garlic and onion powders are key for flavor, but feel free to swap them for fresh minced garlic or onion. For paprika, use smoked for a deeper flavor, or regular if you prefer milder spices. Would you like more heat? Add cayenne pepper!
Dried Thyme: This herb complements pork beautifully, but if you don’t have it, dried rosemary or oregano can also work well. Fresh herbs are great if available!
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Extra Crispy in the Air Fryer?
To achieve that perfect crispy exterior, start by drying the pork chops well. Moisture creates steam during cooking, which can prevent crispiness. Here’s how to make sure they come out just right:
- Use paper towels to pat the chops dry before seasoning.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. If they touch, they won’t crisp up as nicely.
- Flipping halfway through cooking ensures even browning on all sides.
- Let them rest after cooking for about 5 minutes. This step allows juices to settle, keeping the chops juicy and tender!
Best Damn Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes total, including about 5 minutes for prep and 12-15 minutes for cooking. Just enough time to have a flavorful dinner ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because it removes any excess moisture. Dry pork chops will crisp up beautifully in the air fryer, giving you that perfect texture you crave.
2. Make the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme (if you’re using it). This seasoning mix is what gives the pork chops their delicious flavor!
3. Season the Pork Chops:
Drizzle the olive oil over both sides of the pork chops. Then, generously coat each chop with the seasoning mixture. Make sure they’re well covered so every bite is bursting with flavor!
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that your pork chops start cooking right away, which helps them crisp up nicely.
5. Cook the Pork Chops:
Place the seasoned pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd them, as this can prevent proper cooking. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They’re ready when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and look golden brown.
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute within the meat, making each bite juicy and tender. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and taste!
7. Serve:
Now it’s time to enjoy your perfectly cooked air fryer pork chops! Serve them with your favorite sides for a delicious meal. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! If you prefer bone-in pork chops, just keep in mind that they may take a little longer to cook—around 15-20 minutes. Make sure to flip them halfway through and check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Use Instead of Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can substitute it with canola oil, avocado oil, or even melted butter. Each will give a slightly different flavor, but they all work well for achieving that crispy texture!
How to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-6 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help retain their crispiness!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Before Cooking?
Yes! Marinating can add extra flavor. Simply mix your seasoning with some vinegar or lemon juice and let the pork chops sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) in the fridge before cooking. Just remember to pat them dry again before air frying!
