Description
Succulent air fryer pork chops deliver a crispy exterior with juicy, tender meat that promises restaurant-quality dining at home. Garlic, herbs, and a perfect golden-brown crust make this simple recipe a weeknight dinner champion you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 2 bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick)
Spices and Seasonings:
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Cooking Ingredient:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the air fryer by setting the temperature to 400°F and allowing it to fully warm up for optimal cooking performance.
- Carefully pat the pork chops completely dry using paper towels to ensure a crisp exterior. If a fat cap is present, make precise diagonal cuts at 1-inch intervals to enhance rendering and texture.
- Create a flavorful seasoning blend in a mixing bowl. Lightly brush the pork chops with oil to help seasonings adhere, then generously massage the spice mixture into every surface of the meat.
- Arrange the seasoned pork chops in the air fryer basket, ensuring each piece has adequate space between them to promote even circulation and consistent cooking.
- Cook the pork chops for 12-15 minutes, carefully turning them midway through the cooking process. Verify doneness by checking that the internal temperature reaches 145°F using a meat thermometer, which guarantees safe and juicy results.
Notes
- Check meat thickness to adjust cooking time, thinner cuts need less time to prevent drying out.
- Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness, preventing overcooking and maintaining juicy texture.
- Score fat cap helps render fat evenly, creating crispy exterior and preventing curling during cooking.
- Try different seasoning blends like herbs de Provence, Cajun spice, or Mediterranean mix for variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg