Why Make This Recipe

Juicy air fryer pork chops are a fantastic choice for a delicious and satisfying meal. This recipe offers a quick and easy way to prepare tender pork with a crispy, flavorful crust. Using an air fryer allows you to enjoy crispy pork chops without the excess oil used in traditional frying methods. Plus, it’s a healthier option that retains the meat’s natural juices, making sure each bite is packed with flavor.

How to Make Juicy Air Fryer Pork Chops

Ingredients

2 Bone-in pork chops
1 tablespoon Brown sugar (or golden monkfruit for sugar-free/low-carb)
1/2 teaspoon Paprika
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon Garlic powder
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
2 tablespoons Olive oil

Directions

In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set the rub aside.
Pat both sides of your bone-in pork chops dry with a paper towel and then brush all the sides with oil.
Season all sides of the chops generously with the seasoning rub for the best results. For an optional step, you can spritz the pork with olive oil spray.
Place the pork chops inside the air fryer in a single layer. Set the air fryer temperature to 400 degrees and cook for 10 minutes.
Cook the pork chops for 5 minutes and then flip them over. Continue to cook for another 4 minutes. The pork chops are ready when the thickest part of the chop reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees when tested with an instant-read thermometer or meat thermometer.
Let your juicy pork chops rest for about 10 minutes before serving them with your favorite side.

How to Serve Juicy Air Fryer Pork Chops

Serve these juicy pork chops with your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Drizzling some gravy or apple sauce on top can elevate the flavor even more.

How to Store Juicy Air Fryer Pork Chops

To store any leftovers, place the cooled pork chops in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to properly wrap them to avoid freezer burn.

Tips to Make Juicy Air Fryer Pork Chops

Always pat your pork chops dry before seasoning to help the rub stick better.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Cooking to the correct temperature ensures juicy and safe-to-eat pork.
Let the pork chops rest after cooking. This helps the juices settle and makes for a more flavorful bite.

Variation

Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Some people love adding a touch of cayenne pepper for spice or using different herbs like rosemary for a unique twist. You can also use this same method for boneless pork chops if you prefer.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?

Yes, you can use boneless pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may cook faster than bone-in chops.

2. What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake the pork chops in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20-25 minutes or until they reach the proper internal temperature.

3. How do I know when my pork chops are done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chop. It should read 145 degrees Fahrenheit for perfectly cooked pork.