These air fryer pork chops are juicy and crispy, making them a tasty dinner option. They cook up in no time and are perfect for a quick meal!
Honestly, I love how easy they are to make! Just season, pop them in the air fryer, and you have delicious chops without the mess. Plus, who doesn’t love crispy edges? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for this recipe as they stay juicier during cooking. If you prefer boneless chops, that works too! Just watch the cooking time since boneless ones can cook faster.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick. In a pinch, you can substitute canola oil or avocado oil. Both work well without changing the flavor a lot.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a beautiful smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika can be used instead. For a spicy kick, you could even try cayenne pepper—just be careful with the amount!
Seasonings: The garlic and onion powders add depth to the flavor. You can replace them with fresh minced garlic or onion if you prefer. Start with half the amount because fresh can be quite strong!
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Juicy and Not Overcooked?
A common worry is ending up with dry pork chops. Here are a few tips to keep them juicy:
- Pat the pork chops dry before seasoning. This helps the oil and spices adhere better.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.
- Let the pork chops rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making your chops tender and flavorful.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give them space so they can cook evenly and achieve that nice crispiness.
How to Make Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 2 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 10-12 minutes to cook in the air fryer. Including resting time, you’ll be ready to serve in about 20-25 minutes total. Quick, easy, and oh so tasty!
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 will help your pork chops cook evenly and give them a nice crispy finish.
2. Prep the Pork Chops
Using paper towels, pat the pork chops dry. Drying them helps the spices stick better and results in a great texture after cooking!
3. Mix the Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This spice mix will give your pork chops a delicious flavor.
4. Season the Chops
Brush both sides of each pork chop with olive oil. Then, rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the chops. Make sure to cover them well for the best taste!
5. Air Fry the Pork Chops
Place the seasoned pork chops in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not overlapping to allow for even cooking. Cook them at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through to ensure they brown evenly.
6. Check for Doneness
When the cooking time is up, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should read 145°F (63°C) for perfectly juicy pork chops. If they need a bit more time, don’t hesitate to add a minute or two.
7. Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them tender. Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a lovely finishing touch.
Enjoy your delicious air fryer pork chops! They pair wonderfully with veggies or a side salad.
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just as well. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster than bone-in chops. Start checking for doneness around 8-10 minutes.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes to maintain their crispy texture, or warm them in the microwave, covered, to prevent drying out.
What Can I Serve with Air Fryer Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. For something lighter, roasted Brussels sprouts or a cauliflower mash work great too!
How Can I Make These Spicy?
If you want to add some heat, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the seasoning mixture. Start with a small amount, like 1/4 teaspoon, and adjust based on your spice preference!
