Air-Fryer Magic: Frozen Pork Chops, No Defrosting Needed

Cooking frozen pork chops in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious meal with minimal prep work. This method produces juicy, tender, and flavourful pork chops in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. The air fryer's ability to defrost and cook the meat simultaneously is a game-changer for those who may have forgotten to thaw their meat beforehand.

How to cook frozen pork chops in an air fryer

Ingredients

• 1-4 frozen pork chops
• Olive oil or cooking spray
• Salt
• Pepper
• Brown sugar
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Cayenne pepper (optional)
• Smoked paprika (optional)
• Ground mustard (optional)

Method

• Place the frozen pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
• Cook at 380-390°F for 4-5 minutes to defrost.
• Remove the basket and separate the chops if they are stuck together.
• Spray or brush the chops with oil, and season with salt and pepper (or a dry rub).
• Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for 12-18 minutes at 380-390°F, or until the middle is no longer pink. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the chops, so it's best to use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 145°F.
• Allow the chops to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

• You can use boneless or bone-in pork chops, but thicker chops will take longer to cook.
• If you don't have a meat thermometer, you can cut into the pork to check if it's cooked. It should be white or very slightly pink in the middle.
• You can reheat any leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes.

The best pork chops for the air fryer

You can use any kind of pork chops in the air fryer, whether they are thick or thin, bone-in or boneless, frozen or thawed. However, if you want to get a beautiful char on your pork chops, it is best to opt for thick, centre-cut, bone-in chops.

The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the chops and whether they have bones in them or not. Boneless pork chops will cook quicker, while thicker cuts will take longer.

If you are cooking from frozen, you will need to add a few minutes to the overall cooking time to allow the meat to defrost. Start by air frying for around 4-5 minutes to defrost, then add your seasonings and return to the air fryer for another 12-18 minutes.

If you are cooking from thawed, you can simply season the pork chops and air fry for around 12 minutes, flipping them over after 6 minutes.

The best way to check if your pork chops are cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Pork chops are safe to eat when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

How to make a rub for air fryer pork chops

Yes, you can cook frozen pork chops in an air fryer. They turn out tender and juicy, and a bold dry rub gives them amazing flavour.

Dry Rub Ideas

For a dry rub, you can mix together a combination of the following:

• Smoked Paprika
• Brown sugar
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Cayenne pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Ground mustard
• Parmesan

• Mix your chosen spices together in a small bowl.
• Rinse your pork chops and pat them dry with a paper towel.
• Coat the pork chops with olive oil.
• Rub the spice mix into the meat, making sure to cover all sides.
• Cook the pork chops in the air fryer, following the timings and temperatures outlined below.

Air Fryer Timings and Temperatures

• Preheat your air fryer to between 380°F and 400°F.
• Cook the pork chops for 5 minutes to defrost.
• Cook for a further 12-18 minutes, or until the middle is no longer pink and the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
• Allow the chops to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

How to reheat pork chops in the air fryer

Reheating pork chops in an air fryer is a straightforward process. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to a temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the ideal temperature for reheating pork chops without overcooking them.
• Place the Pork Chops in the Air Fryer Basket: Ensure that the pork chops are not overcrowded in the basket and have some space around them for even heating.
• Reheat the Pork Chops: Place the basket into the air fryer and cook the pork chops for 3 to 5 minutes. This duration should be sufficient to warm them through without overdoing it.
• Check for Warming: After the suggested time, check the pork chops to ensure they are warmed through. If they still feel cool in the centre, you can put them back in the air fryer for another minute or two.
• Serve: Once the pork chops are heated to your liking, serve them immediately.

Reheating pork chops in an air fryer is a convenient and quick way to enjoy your leftovers. This method helps retain moisture and flavour, ensuring your pork chops taste delicious even after being cooked twice.

What to serve with air fryer pork chops

There are many side dishes that can be served with air fryer pork chops. Here are some ideas:

Potatoes

Air fryer pork chops and potatoes are a perfect match. You can try roasted potatoes or garlic butter potatoes. If you want to make something more special, try Parmesan pesto roasted potatoes or crispy air fryer baked potatoes.

Vegetables

A simple salad or steamed vegetables are always a good option. If you want something more substantial, try roasted broccoli and cauliflower, lemon-pepper asparagus, or blistered green beans with pickled shallots and toasted breadcrumbs.

Zucchini fries coated in breadcrumbs are also a crowd-pleaser. You can also throw air fryer asparagus into your air fryer while the pork rests.

Rice

A simple side of brown or white rice will let the pork's flavors shine. You can also try something with a bit more flavor, like Portuguese-style mint rice or buttery garlic rice.

Salad

An apple walnut salad is a delicious choice to serve with air fryer pork chops. You can also try a simple 5-ingredient salad with beets and goat cheese or a shaved cucumber and fennel salad with olives and feta.

Applesauce

You can't go wrong with a side of applesauce.

Frequently asked questions