Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe – Quick, Easy, and Juicy Pork Chops

The Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe is a quick and easy way to prepare delicious, tender, and juicy pork chops without the need for excess oil or frying. Start by seasoning your pork chops with a blend of your favorite spices, such as garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and lightly coat the pork chops with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray. Place the pork chops in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping for even cooking. Air fry for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time to achieve a golden-brown exterior. Once done, allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes before serving. The result is perfectly cooked, crispy pork chops with minimal effort, making this Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner.

Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe – Quick, Easy, and Juicy Pork Chops

If you’re craving a delicious, juicy, and crispy pork chop but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, an air fryer pork chop recipe is the solution you’re looking for. Air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance because they allow you to prepare meals with less oil while still achieving that golden-brown, crispy texture we all love. Pork chops are a versatile and tasty protein, and with the air fryer, you can cook them perfectly every time.

This Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe is easy to follow, quick, and results in tender, flavorful pork chops that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or preparing a quick weeknight meal, these air fryer pork chops will not disappoint. Read on for a step-by-step guide to making this delicious dish, along with nutritional information and tips for the perfect pork chop every time.

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Nutritional Information

• Calories per serving: Approximately 350 kcal (depending on size and seasoning)
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 500mg

This nutritional breakdown is based on a standard 6-ounce pork chop without any added sides. Keep in mind that the actual calories and nutritional content may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use.

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Ingredients

For the perfect air fryer pork chops, you’ll need the following:

• 2 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional for added flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
• Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)

Note: You can always adjust the seasoning to match your personal preference or experiment with different herbs and spices!

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Prep Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes Preparing the pork chops is super quick. You only need to rub the seasoning mixture over the pork chops and let them rest while the air fryer heats up.

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Active Time

• Active Time: 10-12 minutes The active time includes cooking the pork chops in the air fryer, which takes about 10-12 minutes, depending on their thickness. You’ll want to flip them halfway through cooking for an even, crispy exterior.

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Resting Time

• Resting Time: 5 minutes After removing the pork chops from the air fryer, let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute within the meat, ensuring your pork chops remain juicy and tender.

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Total Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes

From prep to resting time, you can have delicious air fryer pork chops ready in just 20 minutes.

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Cuisine

This recipe is part of American cuisine, but pork chops are enjoyed around the world in various forms. The air fryer method is a modern take on a traditional dish, offering a healthier and quicker cooking process.

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Course

• Course: Main course

Air fryer pork chops are a great option for a main dish, served with your choice of sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

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Servings

• Servings: 2

This recipe is perfect for two servings. If you need to make more, simply adjust the ingredients accordingly and cook the pork chops in batches.

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork Chops: Start by patting the pork chops dry with a paper towel. This helps to remove any excess moisture, allowing the seasoning to stick better and ensuring a crispier texture.
2. Season the Pork Chops: In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, thyme (if using), and cayenne pepper. Rub the olive oil over both sides of each pork chop and then evenly sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chops. Be sure to coat all sides of the pork chop with the seasoning.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the pork chops cook evenly and get a crispy exterior.
4. Cook the Pork Chops: Place the seasoned pork chops in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded. This allows hot air to circulate properly, ensuring an even cook. Cook the pork chops at 400°F for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Flip the chops halfway through cooking to ensure they’re browned and crispy on both sides.
5. Rest the Pork Chops: Once the pork chops are cooked through, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest on a plate for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle, making the pork chop even more tender.
6. Serve: After the resting period, serve the pork chops with your favorite sides. You can garnish them with lemon wedges for a fresh, tangy contrast.

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Equipment

• Air fryer: An air fryer is essential for this recipe. You can use a basket-style or tray-style air fryer, but make sure it’s large enough to fit the pork chops comfortably.
• Meat thermometer: This is optional but highly recommended to check the internal temperature of the pork chops and ensure they are cooked to perfection.
• Tongs: For flipping the pork chops halfway through cooking without piercing the meat.
• Baking sheet or plate: For resting the cooked pork chops.

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Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Pork Chops

• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Give your pork chops enough space to cook evenly. If your air fryer basket is small, cook them in batches.
• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to experiment with other spices like cumin, chili powder, or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
• Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
• Bone-in vs. Boneless: Bone-in pork chops tend to have more flavor and stay juicy, but boneless pork chops cook a little faster. Either works well in the air fryer!

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Conclusion

This air fryer pork chop recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy crispy, tender pork chops that rival those cooked with traditional methods. Whether you’re cooking for two or preparing a larger batch, this recipe is versatile and easy to adjust. The air fryer makes it possible to cook pork chops quickly, without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Pair your pork chops with your favorite sides, and you have a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Enjoy!