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Crispy and Juicy Air Fryer Pork Chops (No Breading Option)

Close-up of a perfectly cooked, juicy air fryer pork chops, showing a seasoned, browned exterior and tender interior.

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Make perfectly tender and juicy air fryer pork chops with a crispy exterior every time. This easy recipe works for boneless or bone-in cuts and is ready for your weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops completely dry using paper towels. This step helps achieve a crispy exterior.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, and cayenne pepper.
  3. Lightly brush both sides of the pork chops with the oil.
  4. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over all surfaces of the pork chops, pressing gently so the seasoning adheres.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit (195 degrees Celsius).
  6. Place the seasoned pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary.
  7. Air fry for 10 to 14 minutes, flipping the pork chops halfway through the cooking time. The exact time depends on the thickness of your chops.
  8. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Pork is done when it reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius) in the thickest part.
  9. Remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before serving. This resting time keeps the meat tender.

Notes

  • For bone-in pork chops, you may need to add 1-2 minutes to the total cooking time.
  • If you prefer a breaded version, lightly dredge the oiled chops in flour, then egg, then a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese before air frying.
  • To achieve a sweet and savory flavor, add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to the spice mix.

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