These juicy air fryer pork chops are super easy to make and make dinner a breeze! With a crispy outside and tender inside, they’re sure to please everyone at the table.
I love how quick they cook—dinner ready in no time! Plus, the air fryer keeps them healthy without losing any flavor. Trust me, you’ll be making these again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use either bone-in or boneless pork chops for this recipe. Bone-in usually has more flavor, but boneless cooks quicker. If pork isn’t your thing, chicken thighs or turkey cutlets are good alternatives.
Olive Oil: This oil helps to crisp the pork chops in the air fryer. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil or canola oil work well too. You could even use melted butter for a richer flavor!
Spices: The garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika are key to the flavor. Feel free to adjust them based on your taste. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or even cumin can give a nice flavor, though the smokiness will be missing.
Cayenne Pepper: It adds some heat to the dish, but if you prefer milder flavors, you can skip this ingredient or replace it with a pinch of black pepper.
Parsley: This is for garnish and adds a pop of color. If fresh parsley isn’t available, try chopped green onions or cilantro for a different twist.
How Do You Get a Nice Crust on Air Fryer Pork Chops?
Getting that perfect crust is essential for juicy pork chops. Start by patting your pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it removes excess moisture, allowing the spice rub to stick and form that lovely crust during cooking.
- Mix your spices well and rub them evenly on both sides of the pork chops. Don’t hold back—this is where the flavor comes from!
- Arrange the pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping, so consider cooking in batches if needed.
- Remember to flip the chops halfway through the cooking time for an even cook and crust on both sides.
Lastly, let them rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your pork chops juicy and flavorful. Enjoy!
Best Damn Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 12-15 minutes to cook in the air fryer. Including the resting time, you’ll be enjoying your delicious pork chops in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This is important for getting the pork chops nice and crispy!
2. Make the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy). Stir well to combine, and you’ll have a beautiful spice rub ready to go!
3. Prep the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is key to ensuring they get that tasty, crunchy crust. Once dry, rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops, making sure they’re well coated.
4. Air Frying Time:
Place the seasoned pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be careful not to overcrowd them; if needed, cook in batches. Air fry the pork chops for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly. They’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the juices run clear.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps them stay juicy! Garnish with chopped parsley, and serve your delicious air fryer pork chops with your favorite sides. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While bone-in or boneless pork chops work great, you can also use pork loin or pork tenderloin. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since different cuts can vary in thickness and moisture content.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To prolong their shelf life, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their juiciness.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Instead of Using a Spice Rub?
Yes! Marinating the pork chops for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) will infuse them with more flavor. Use a marinade with similar ingredients, like olive oil, garlic, and spices, or your favorite store-bought marinade for a quick option.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer milder pork chops, simply omit the cayenne pepper or reduce its amount. Conversely, if you love some heat, feel free to increase the cayenne or even add crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
