If you're craving tender, juicy, perfectly seasoned pork chops with a crisp, golden exterior—all in under 20 minutes—this Air Fryer Pork Chop Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe delivers amazing flavor using simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, making it ideal for busy weeknights or anyone wanting a healthier alternative to pan-fried or breaded pork chops. With minimal cleanup and consistently delicious results, it's a must-try for both air fryer beginners and seasoned home cooks.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Yield: 4 pork chops
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- ½ teaspoon brown sugar (optional, for extra caramelization)
Tip: For maximum juiciness, choose pork chops that are at least ¾–1 inch thick. Thinner chops cook too quickly and may dry out.
Directions
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to 400°F (205°C) and allow it to preheat for 3–5 minutes. Preheating helps create that perfect golden crust. - Season the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Rub both sides with olive oil. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over both sides of the chops. - Arrange in the Basket:
Place the pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overlap. Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking. - Air Fry:
Cook for 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The exact time depends on thickness—thinner chops cook faster; thicker chops may need an extra 1–2 minutes. - Check for Doneness:
Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This is the USDA-recommended safe temperature for juicy, tender pork. - Rest and Serve:
Let the pork chops rest for 3 minutes before serving. This step locks in juices and enhances flavor.
Best Practice: If your air fryer runs hot, reduce the temperature to 390°F to avoid over-browning.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated Values
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
Pro Tip
If you’ve never tried making pork chops in an air fryer, you’re truly missing out on one of the easiest ways to get tender, perfectly cooked results every time. Air fryers circulate hot air rapidly around the food, creating a crisp, golden exterior while keeping the inside juicy—no splattering oil, no babysitting the stove, and no guesswork. If you don’t own an air fryer yet (or your current one is due for an upgrade), now is the perfect time. A high-quality model can completely transform the way you cook weeknight meals, such as this one. For a smoother, faster kitchen experience, click the button below to browse top-rated air fryers on Amazon.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Pork Chops are a delicious, no-fuss way to get dinner on the table fast without sacrificing flavor. With their juicy center and perfectly seasoned crust, they pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, fresh salads, or your favorite weeknight sides. Whether you're new to air frying or already love its convenience, this recipe guarantees consistent results every time. Enjoy a healthier, flavorful twist on classic pork chops—ready in minutes and sure to become a household favorite!
