If you've ever struggled with dry pork chops, this air fryer pork chop recipe is about to become your new go-to. Using simple ingredients, the magic of the air fryer, and the best way to cook pork evenly, these chops come out golden brown, incredibly juicy, and packed with flavor. Whether you're cooking bone-in pork chops or boneless pork chops, this recipe delivers perfect air fryer pork chops every single time. This makes it an easy dinner for busy weeknights and a hit with the whole family.
Pork chops have a reputation for being tricky. You can overcook them, and you're stuck with dry pork chops no one wants to eat. I wanted the best air fryer pork recipe that works for thick pork chops, thin pork chops, and everything in between. I have landed on this method that creates a flavorful crust, tender inside, and juicy chops every time. This has easily become one of my favorite air fryer recipes.
Tips for using an air fryer?
- For best results, always preheat your air fryer if your model recommends it. A hot air fryer helps the pork chops start cooking right away and promotes a golden brown exterior.
- Cook pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket with space between them for proper air circulation. Lightly coat the outside of the pork chop with olive oil or cooking spray and avoid stacking. This prevents uneven cooking and helps create that perfect golden brown finish.
- Because air fryers vary, always rely on a meat thermometer to check doneness rather than time alone. Cooking to the proper internal temperature of the meat is the best way to guarantee juicy pork chops.
Jump to:
Choosing the Best Pork Chops
- Thickness matters - Look for thick-cut pork chops that are about 1 to 1 ½ inches thick. Thicker chops cook more evenly and stay juicy.
- Bone-in vs. boneless - Bone-in chops are more forgiving and tend to produce extra juicy pork chops, but boneless pork chops work great too.
- Watch thin chops closely - Thin pork chops cook much faster and need close attention to prevent uneven cooking or drying out.
Ingredients
Full List of Ingredients for Pork Chops
- Bone-In Pork Chops - The star of the show!
- Pork Spice Rub - This is where the flavor magic happens. We used our Prime Rib Seasoning, and it made these pork chops taste amazing.
- Brown Sugar - Just a touch goes a long way to help balance the savory spice.
- Oil - A light coating of oil helps the seasoning stick. We used avocado oil for this recipe, but any neutral oil will work also.
ProTip: Mixing your spices in a small bowl first helps evenly coat the pork and build a bold seasoning mixture that sticks beautifully.
See recipe card for quantities.
Step-by-Step Instructions
How to Make Air Fryer Pork Chops
Below are the step-by-step instructions for making these air fryer pork chops that just might become one of your favorite weeknight dinners on repeat.
- Prep the chops by brushing both sides of the pork chops with oil.
- Combine all spices and brown sugar in a small bowl to make a flavorful dry rub. Season both sides of each chop generously.
- Place the pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook at 380°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through the cook time.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. 145°F is the perfect temperature.
Pro Tip: Let the seasoned pork rest for an hour in the refrigerator to help build a better flavorful crust.
Made this recipe? Let me know!
Equipment and Supplies
This recipe is easy to make with just the right tools!
- Drip Ez - These keep seasoning messes and raw meat drips under control, making prep faster and way less messy.
- Small Mixing Bowl - Where all the flavor comes together. Perfect for mixing your seasoning blend.
- Meat Thermometer - Your secret weapon against dry pork chops.
- Tongs - Safe, easy flipping without piercing the meat.
- Air Fryer - The real hero of the recipe. It circulates hot air around the pork chops to create a golden-brown crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
Serving Ideas
Different Ways to Serve Pork Chops
These air fryer pork chops are incredibly versatile and pair well wiht with a variety of sides. Whether you're keeping things simple for a busy weeknight or building out a full family-stye meal, here are a few easy and delicious ways to serve them.
- As the Protein | Main Course
- Serve with green beans, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- Pair with creamy mac and cheese or mashed potatoes for a delicious dinner.
- Fun and Creative Serving Ideas
- Use leftovers for sandwiches or wraps
- Slice and serve over a grain bowl or salad.
Seasoning Swaps
- Swap your pork rub for Cajun seasoning.
- Add smoked paprika or chili powder for depth
- Add some red pepper flakes for some heat
- Skip the brown sugar for a low-sugar option
Storing Leftovers
Refrigerating
- Store cooled pork chop leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Freeze cooked porkchops in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- The best way is to reheat in the air fryer at 350°F until warmed through to maintain texture.
More Air Fryer Dishes
Video of Recipe
Recipe
Air Fryer Pork Chops
Equipment
- 1 Air Fryer
- 1 Small Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 3 Bone-in Pork Chops roughly 18 oz total
- 1 Tbsp Pork Rub | Pork Seasoning
- 2 Tbsp Brown Sugar
- 2 tsp Avocado Oil
Instructions
- Prep the chops by brushing both sides of the pork chops with oil.3 Bone-in Pork Chops, 2 teaspoon Avocado Oil
- Combine all spices and brown sugar in a small bowl to make a flavorful dry rub.2 tablespoon Brown Sugar, 1 tablespoon Pork Rub | Pork Seasoning
- Season both sides of each chop generously - allow the chops to rest for an hour in the refigerater to build a crust.
- Cook at 380°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through the cook time.
- Using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperatrue of the meat. 145°F is the perfect temperature.
Video
Notes
Refrigerating
- Store cooled pork chop leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Freeze cooked porkchops in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- The best way is to reheat in the air fryer at 350°F until warmed through to maintain texture.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Cooking time depends on thickness and whether the chops are bone-in or boneless. Thick-cut pork chops typically take longer than thin pork chops. Always rely on a meat thermometer and cook until the internal temperature reaches 145° F.
Dry pork chops are usually caused by overcooking or using very thin chops without adjusting the cook time. Checking the internal temperature will help prevent dryness.
Pork chops pair well with a mix of savory and slightly sweet spices. Seasonings with garlic, onion, herbs, and a touch of brown sugar help create a flavorful crust.
No. Pork chops should be cooked in a single layer with space between them to allow proper air circulation and prevent uneven cooking.
Chef Tim Clowers says
One of the better air fryer recipes that I have made that 99.99% of everyone can make. So Good and Soooo Easy.
Judi Hoover says
I’ll be making these soon! Thanks for the recipe
Todd Huth says
nice job
CookitwithTim says
Appreciate that Todd! Hope you've enjoyed the recipe!
Vanessa says
Thank you will try tonight.
CookitwithTim says
Amazing! Let me know how it goes!
Fish says
thanks
CookitwithTim says
You're welcome! Hope you love it!