Crispy Air-Fried Pork Chops: The Perfect Quick Recipe

Cooking pork chops in an air fryer is an easy and convenient way to make a tasty meal. The air fryer's rapid air circulation yields pork chops that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The cooking time is also significantly reduced, with most recipes taking under 20 minutes.

To make crispy pork chops in an air fryer, you will need pork chops, oil, and a variety of seasonings and spices. The exact measurements and ingredients will depend on your personal preference, but some common seasonings include Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

The process is simple: first, pat the pork chops dry and coat them with oil and seasonings. Then, place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at a temperature between 375°F and 400°F, flipping them halfway through. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your pork chops, but on average, it should take around 8-12 minutes for boneless pork chops and 11-15 minutes for bone-in pork chops.

Once the pork chops are done, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will ensure that the juices redistribute, resulting in juicy and tender meat.

With an air fryer, you can enjoy perfectly cooked pork chops that are crispy, moist, and full of flavor without having to heat up your entire kitchen.

Choosing the right pork chops

Thickness:

Aim for thicker pork chops, ideally between 1 to 2 inches thick. Thicker chops, such as those that are 1 ½ to 2 inches thick, will give you that desirable seared exterior and juicy middle. Thin pork chops tend to cook too quickly and may become dry. If you opt for boneless pork chops, look for chops that are at least 1 inch thick.

Bone-in or Boneless:

You can use either bone-in or boneless pork chops for your air fryer recipe. Bone-in chops will take longer to cook and require a slightly different cooking technique. They are a great option if you want to enhance the flavour of the meat, as the bone can add depth to the taste. Boneless chops are easier to work with and ensure even cooking.

Cut:

Look for centre-cut pork chops, as they tend to have a more uniform shape and thickness. This will help ensure even cooking in the air fryer.

Freshness:

Whenever possible, opt for fresh pork chops instead of frozen ones. If you do need to use frozen pork chops, make sure to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before cooking. Starting with fresh, high-quality meat will make a significant difference in the final texture and taste of your dish.

Source:

Try to source your pork chops from a local butcher instead of a grocery store. This way, you can select the exact cut and thickness you desire. Additionally, butchers often provide higher-quality meat and can offer advice on the best options for your specific needs.

Preparation:

Before cooking, pat your pork chops dry with paper towels. Removing any excess moisture will help the seasoning or breading adhere better to the meat. Additionally, make sure to bring your pork chops to room temperature before placing them in the air fryer for more even cooking.

Remember, the key to choosing the right pork chops is to look for thickness, freshness, and a centre-cut. With the right selection and proper preparation, you'll be well on your way to creating mouth-watering, crispy pork chops in your air fryer!

Making a rub

Firstly, decide on the seasonings you want to use. Some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and brown sugar. You can also add Parmesan cheese to your rub for extra flavour. Play around with different combinations and amounts of seasonings to find your perfect rub.

Once you have chosen your seasonings, it's time to mix them together. You will need a small bowl to combine all the seasonings. If you are using Parmesan cheese, it is best to grate it first before adding it to the mix. Mix the seasonings until they are well combined. You can also add a little olive oil to the mix to create a paste-like consistency, which will help the rub stick to the pork chops.

Now it's time to apply the rub to the pork chops. Start by patting your pork chops dry with a paper towel. This will help the rub adhere better to the meat. Then, use your hands to generously coat both sides of the pork chops with the rub. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies of the meat and really work the rub in. You can also use a brush to apply the rub if you prefer.

Once the pork chops are coated, they are ready to be cooked in your air fryer. Follow the instructions for cooking pork chops in an air fryer, and enjoy your delicious, flavourful meal!

Breading

Prepare the Breading Station:

Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls or containers. This method will help ensure a mess-free process and make it easier to coat the pork chops evenly.

Bowl 1 - Dry Ingredients:

In the first bowl, combine dry ingredients such as flour, cornstarch, or breadcrumbs. You can also add spices and seasonings to this mixture for extra flavour. For a crispier texture, you can use panko breadcrumbs or a combination of breadcrumbs and crushed cornflake crumbs.

Bowl 2 - Wet Ingredients:

In the second bowl, prepare a wet mixture to help the dry ingredients adhere to the pork chops. You can use a beaten egg, buttermilk, or a combination of egg and water. If you're allergic to eggs or prefer a different option, olive oil, mayonnaise, or Dijon mustard can also be used.

Bowl 3 - Breading Mixture:

In the third bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and any additional coatings you want to use. This could include grated Parmesan cheese, crushed cornflake crumbs, or a combination of both. You can also add more spices and seasonings to this mixture for extra flavour.

Dredging the Pork Chops:

Now that your breading station is set up, it's time to coat the pork chops. Here's a step-by-step process:

• Start by seasoning the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add other dry seasonings or spices to enhance the flavour.
• Take one pork chop and dip it into the first bowl with the dry ingredients. Make sure to coat it evenly on all sides, shaking off any excess.
• Next, dip the coated pork chop into the second bowl with the wet ingredients. Again, ensure it is evenly coated, and let any excess drip off.
• Finally, dip the pork chop into the third bowl with the breading mixture. Coat it thoroughly, pressing the crumbs onto the meat with your hands to ensure they adhere well. Shake off any excess.
• Repeat this process with the remaining pork chops.

Tips for Crispy Breading:

• Use a combination of different types of breadcrumbs or crumbs, such as panko, regular breadcrumbs, and crushed cornflake crumbs, for a crispier texture.
• If you want a thicker breading, you can repeat the dredging process by dipping the pork chops back into the wet mixture and then the breading mixture again.
• Ensure that your pork chops are dry before coating them. Any excess moisture can prevent the breading from sticking properly.
• Use one hand for dry ingredients and the other hand for wet ingredients to avoid clumping in the mixtures.
• Don't overcrowd the pork chops in the air fryer. Cook them in batches if needed to allow proper air circulation, which is crucial for crispiness.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for air fryer pork chops can vary depending on the thickness of the meat, whether they are boneless or bone-in, and the specific model of your air fryer. However, here is a comprehensive guide to help you achieve the perfect crispy pork chops:

Firstly, it is important to note that thicker pork chops are generally recommended for the air fryer as they allow for a beautiful char on all sides without overcooking. Aim for center-cut pork chops with a thickness between 1 to 2 inches. If using boneless pork chops, ensure they are at least 1-inch thick to prevent them from drying out.

When preparing the pork chops, remove any excess liquid by patting them dry with paper towels before seasoning. This is an important step to ensure the seasonings adhere well to the meat. For bone-in pork chops, a cooking time of 11 to 15 minutes is recommended. Set your air fryer to 375°F to 400°F and cook for 11 to 15 minutes, flipping the chops halfway through. Check the internal temperature of the chops with a meat thermometer; they are ready when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

For boneless pork chops, the cooking time can range from 8 to 12 minutes at a similar temperature. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F to 400°F and cook the chops for 8 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway. Again, use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

It is important to note that air fryer models can vary, so it is recommended to do a test run with a single pork chop to determine the optimal time and temperature for your specific air fryer. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure proper airflow and even cooking. If cooking a larger batch, cook the pork chops in multiple batches.

Once the pork chops have reached the desired internal temperature, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicy and tender pork chops.

What to serve with pork chops

There are many side dishes that go well with pork chops. Here are some ideas:

• Salads: A big green salad or a kale salad. A cabbage slaw with mustard, apple cider vinegar and olive oil dressing. A spinach salad with pear, sheep's cheese, and dried currants or blueberries. A tomato and cucumber salad.
• Vegetables: Roasted or steamed asparagus, especially with truffle oil. Roasted or steamed broccoli. Roasted or mashed cauliflower, especially with garlic and bacon. Roasted butternut squash. Green beans, especially with garlic. Brussels sprouts, especially with maple syrup and bacon. Stewed okra. Braised red cabbage with apple. Carrots, especially with honey and thyme.
• Starches: Mashed potatoes, especially with gravy. Sweet potato fries. Fried plantain cakes. Potato au gratin. Mac and cheese. Corn on the cob. Dinner rolls. Baked potatoes. Hash browns. Polenta.
• Fruit: Apples, especially as applesauce or apple-cranberry stuffing. Pears.
• Meat: Bacon.

Frequently asked questions