Air Fryer Pork Chops
When it comes to finding something to cook for dinner this Air Fryer Pork Chops recipe should be at the top of your list. This pork chop recipe is easy, delicious, and ready in 15 minutes.
If you thought that cooking meat in the air fryer was not a possibility then I have news for you. Cooking pork chops and other meats in the air fryer is not only easy but incredibly delicious.
I had this idea that meat cooked in the air fryer would be tough and rubbery. The reality is the complete opposite. This Air Fryer Pork Chop recipe is so juicy and full of flavor. In Fact I don’t think I have ever had better pork chops in my life.
Keep on reading to learn just how easy they are to make.
Why You Should Use An Air Fryer
This air fryer pork chops recipe is perfect for the busy or novice cook who needs a quick and easy meal that is full of flavor. I have become a huge fan of the air fryer as has the rest of my family.
If you are like me and on the fence about purchasing an air fryer I want to encourage you to go for it. I for one do not regret the ease that it has brought to my life. And I cannot say enough about how much more delicious food cooked in the air fryer tastes.
If you want to taste pure heaven then give my air fryer bacon recipe a try. I can attest to the fact that it is the absolute best bacon I have ever had.
If you do not have an air fryer yet, or are looking to upgrade then I encourage you to look online on Amazon and read reviews. I purchased the Air Fryer made by Instapot and I love it.
It is small enough to fit easily on my countertop yet large enough to help cook a meal for my family of four. I am able to cook up to four Pork Chops at a time in it.
I have also become a huge fan of using Air Fryer Liners. They cover the bottom of the air fryer basket and make clean up a breeze.
The best part is that all I have to do to clean up is throw the liner into the trash. It does not get more simple than that.
Air Fryer Pork Chops Ingredient List
This Dry Rub is so delicious that my family asked me to make it again and again. I have even used it on french fries and it was a huge hit.
- 4 Pork Chops If the Pork Chops are thick than I like to cut them in half.
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil or Avocado Oil also works great in the air fryer.
- 1/2 Cup Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika you can use regular paprika if you do not have this on hand.
- 1 tsp Garlic Salt
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian Dried Herbs or Italian Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper
Air Fryer Pork Chops Cooking Instructions
I like to pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and coat each side of the pork chops with oil.
In a bowl I mix all of the dry ingredients together to make the dry rub. Mixing them completely is key to ensure that the flavor is evenly dispersed.
Once the dry rub mixture is blended I will take it and coat both sides of each pork chop, making sure to include the edges. I will press the dry rub into it slightly in order to help it to stick.
Next I place the pork chop into the air fryer basket and repeat the process with the next pork chop until they are all coated. I will make sure to not crowd the pork chops in the basket and to leave room for the air to circulate.
Cook the pork chops at 375 degrees F for 12-15 minutes. Flip the pork chops half way to ensure even cooking and equal crispiness.
Remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Dry Rub and Seasoning Variations
While I am very partial to the recipe I have included here are a few options. Here are options so that you can tailor the pork chops to your personal taste.
- Dry Ranch Seasoning: This is a standard in my home and can be substituted for the Italian seasoning if you would like that.
- Panko Bread Crumbs: If you want the crunch and crispy texture of breaded pork chops then add some panko bread crumbs to the dry rub mixture.
- Make it Spicy: If you like your meat to have a bit of a kick add some crushed red pepper flakes. Also if you love food that has a bit of a cajun kick then try my favorite cajun seasoning mix.
- Mexican Style: Add some lime juice to the olive oil and some Tajin Seasoning to bring the chile lime flavor. Zest the peel of the lime and sprinkle it on top of the cooked pork chops to give it that extra kick.
- Lemon Garlic: Remove the parmesan cheese and the smoked paprika. Add some lemon juice to the olive oil and coat the pork chops in it. Then add some crushed garlic to the rub. To make it even more lemon flavored I drizzle some lemon juice on the pork chops when I turn them. I will also add a bit of lemon zest to the top of the pork chops to give them more kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should you cook pork chops in an air fryer?
When cooking pork chops in an air fryer, it’s important to follow the recommended cooking times for your specific model of air fryer. However, as a general rule, pork chops should be cooked for around 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). It’s also recommended that you flip the pork chops halfway through the cooking process to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.
The thickness of your pork chops will affect how long they need to cook in the air fryer. Thicker pork chops may require additional time; thinner cuts may need less time. To determine if your pork chop is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Pork needs to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) before it’s safe to eat. I like to use an Electric Meat Thermometer to check the internal temperature.
Another tip when cooking pork chops in an air fryer is to marinate them beforehand or season them with salt and pepper before placing them into the basket. This enhances the flavor and helps keep them moist during cooking.
In conclusion, when using an air fryer, it’s best to follow manufacturer instructions for optimal results. Generally speaking, though, most models recommend 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C) for cooking pork chops. By following these guidelines and checking their internal temperature.
Can you put frozen pork chops in an air fryer?
Cooking pork chops in the air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious meal without heating up your kitchen. But what if your pork chops are frozen? Can you put them in the air fryer?
The answer is yes, you can cook frozen pork chops in the air fryer. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
- First, make sure your pork chops are not stuck together when frozen. If they are, try to separate them as much as possible before cooking.
- Secondly, you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Frozen pork chops will take longer to cook than fresh ones. A good rule of thumb is to add 5-10 minutes of additional cooking time on top of what you would normally use for fresh pork chops.
- Lastly, be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C) before consuming. I like to use an Electric Meat Thermometer to check the internal temperature.
Overall, cooking frozen pork chops in an air fryer is possible but requires some extra attention and care during preparation and cooking time adjustment.
Why are my pork chops tough in the air fryer?
Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their ability to cook food quickly and healthily. However, some people may find that their pork chops come out tough when using an air fryer.
There could be several reasons why your pork chops are tough in the air fryer:
- You’re overcooking them: Air fryers cook food faster than traditional ovens or stovetops. As a result, it’s easy to overcook your pork chops if you’re not paying close attention. Be sure to check on your pork chops regularly and adjust the cooking time as needed.
- You’re not seasoning properly: Pork chops need seasoning to enhance their flavor and tenderize the meat. Make sure you season both sides of the chop with salt and pepper before placing them in the air fryer.
- You’re using lean cuts of meat: Lean cuts of pork (such as loin) tend to dry out more easily than fattier cuts (such as rib). If you prefer lean cuts, try marinating them for a few hours before cooking or wrapping them in bacon to add extra moisture.
- Your air fryer is too hot: Some air fryers run hotter than others, which can cause your pork chops to become tough or dry out too quickly. Experiment with different temperature settings until you find one that works best for your particular device.
Can I put aluminum foil in the air fryer?
While I have not used aluminum foil in the air fryer it is possible to do.
The purpose would be to create an easy clean up, and lets face it who doesn’t love that. I personally use these air fryer liners when I want to create a mess free meal with easy clean up.
By lining the air fryer basket with these liners it prevents any juices or oils from penetrating onto the basket or underneath it. I always keep them on hand for the days where I am busy and pressed for time. The best part is that after I remove my food I can simply throw away the used liner and my cleanup is done.
How To Store And Reheat Air Fryer Pork Chops
Air fryer pork chops are a delicious and easy meal to make. However, if you make too many or have leftovers, it’s important to know how to store and reheat them properly. Here are some tips on how to do just that:
- Let the Pork Chops Cool Down: Before storing your air fryer pork chops, let them cool down first. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the container which can cause spoilage.
- Store in an Airtight Container: Once your pork chops have cooled down, transfer them into an airtight container. This will keep them fresh for up to four days in the refrigerator.
- Freeze for Longer Storage: If you’re not planning on eating your leftover pork chops within four days, consider freezing them instead. To do this, wrap each chop individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a Ziploc bag or another freezer-safe container.
- Reheat in the Air Fryer: When you’re ready to eat your leftover pork chops, preheat your air fryer at 350°F and then place the chops inside for about 5-7 minutes until they are heated through.
- Add Moisture: To avoid drying out your reheated pork chops, add some moisture by brushing with olive oil or adding a splash of chicken broth before reheating.
By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to store and reheat your air fryer pork chops perfectly every time!
Other Recipes to Try
Air Fryer Pork Chops
Equipment
- 1 Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 4 Pork Chops
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1/2 Cup Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika You can use regular paprika if you do not have this on hand
- 1 tsp Garlic Salt
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian Dried Herbs or Italian Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper
Instructions
- Pat the pork chops dry and coat each side of the pork chops with oil.
- In a bowl mix all of the dry ingredients together to make the dry rub
- Take the dry rub mixture and coat both sides of each pork chop, making sure to include the edges. I press the dry rub into it slightly in order to help it to stick.
- Place the coated pork chops into the air fryer basket and place into the air fryer.Cook the pork chops at 375 degrees F for 12-15 minutes. Flip the pork chops half way to ensure even cooking and equal crispiness.
- Remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them sit for 5 minutes before serving.
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