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The Ultimate Crispy & Juicy Air Fryer Pork Chops (Beginner Friendly)

Two thick, perfectly cooked air fryer pork chops seasoned with a dark spice rub, one sliced to show juicy interior.

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Make perfectly tender and juicy air fryer pork chops with a crispy exterior using simple seasoning. This quick recipe is ideal for easy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 (1-inch thick) boneless or bone-in pork chops
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops completely dry using paper towels. This step is key for a crispy exterior.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and thyme to create your simple pork chop seasoning.
  3. Lightly brush both sides of the pork chops with olive oil.
  4. Generously coat both sides of the pork chops with the seasoning mixture, pressing it lightly onto the meat.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  6. Place the seasoned pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket; work in batches if necessary.
  7. For boneless chops, cook for 10-12 minutes total, flipping halfway through. For bone-in chops, cook for 12-14 minutes total, flipping halfway through.
  8. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The pork is done when it reaches 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part.
  9. Remove the air fryer pork chops from the basket and let them rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before serving. This locks in the juices.

Notes

  • For bone-in pork chops, you may need 1-2 extra minutes of cook time compared to boneless cuts.
  • If you prefer a breaded texture, lightly dredge the chops in flour, then egg, then a mix of panko breadcrumbs and seasoning before air frying.
  • Use a meat thermometer; overcooking is the main cause of dry pork chops.

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