Air-Fried Stuffed Pork Chops: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Cooking pork chops in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make tender, juicy, and flavorful pork chops with a slight crisp on the outside. This cooking method is a game-changer for anyone who has had their fair share of dry pork chops. With the air fryer's rapid air circulation, you can achieve the perfect balance of a crispy exterior and a moist interior in just 20 minutes. The magic happens when you combine a mix of seasonings with this handy kitchen gadget, resulting in a practically hands-off dinner that will impress even the pickiest of eaters.

Choosing the right pork chops

Start by selecting the right cut of pork chops. For stuffed pork chops, it is generally recommended to choose chops with a good thickness, ideally around 1 inch. This thickness provides enough space for stuffing and ensures that the pork cooks evenly without drying out. Thicker chops may require a longer cooking time, so adjust your recipe accordingly.

When it comes to bone-in or boneless pork chops, it's a matter of personal preference. Boneless pork chops are easier to work with when stuffing, as you don't have to worry about the bone during preparation and cooking. However, some people prefer the flavour and presentation of bone-in chops. If you opt for bone-in, keep in mind that they may take longer to cook than boneless chops.

Look for pork chops with a nice marbling of fat. This fat will help keep the meat moist and juicy during the cooking process. Avoid chops that are overly lean, as they may dry out more easily in the air fryer.

Freshness is also key. Choose chops with a bright, pink colour and avoid any with discolouration or an off-putting odour. Check the "best before" or "use by" dates to ensure you're selecting the freshest option.

When purchasing pork chops, consider the source and opt for high-quality, responsibly-raised pork. Look for labels indicating the farming practices, such as "pasture-raised" or "humanely raised." The quality of the meat can significantly impact the taste and texture of your final dish.

Lastly, consider the number of chops you need for your recipe. Air fryers work best when there is enough space for proper air circulation. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the chops in batches to avoid overcrowding. Plan accordingly, and if necessary, adjust your recipe to suit the number of chops you can cook at once.

Preparing the seasoning

For the seasoning, you will need Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. You can also add dried parsley, as suggested by one recipe. If you don't have all of these spices, don't worry—you can tinker with the formula and find what works for you. For example, you could use pre-packaged spice mixes like Old Bay or try something different like burger seasoning.

Once you have gathered your chosen spices, mix them together in a small bowl. You can also add the Parmesan cheese to the spice mixture, as this will help create a delicious crust on your pork chops. If you prefer a simpler approach, you can just rub the pork chops with your chosen seasoning and skip the cheese.

Now it's time to coat the pork chops with your seasoning mixture. First, pat the chops dry with paper towels, then coat both sides with olive oil. This step will help the seasoning stick to the meat. After that, simply coat both sides of the pork chops with your seasoning mixture, making sure to press the seasoning onto the meat so it adheres well.

Your stuffed pork chops are now seasoned and ready to be cooked in your air fryer!

Coating the chops

To make delicious stuffed pork chops in an air fryer, follow these steps for coating the chops:

Firstly, pat your pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is important to ensure that the coating adheres properly to the meat. Use boneless pork chops that are about 1 inch thick for the best results. You can use thicker chops, but you will need to increase the cooking time accordingly.

Next, coat both sides of the pork chops evenly with olive oil. This will help the seasoning stick to the meat and create a crispy exterior. Use extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavour.

Now, it's time to prepare the seasoning mixture. In a small bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix these ingredients well. You can adjust the seasoning to your taste or add other spices like parsley or burger seasoning. The seasoning mixture will give your pork chops a delicious crust.

After that, it's time to coat the pork chops with the seasoning mixture. Make sure to coat both sides evenly, pressing the seasoning onto the meat so that it sticks properly. This step will ensure your pork chops are full of flavour.

Once the chops are coated, you can place them in the air fryer. Cook at 375 degrees Fahrenheit, flipping the chops halfway through the cooking process. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chops, but for 1-inch thick boneless chops, aim for around 9-12 minutes.

Finally, let your stuffed pork chops rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures your chops are juicy and tender.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for stuffed pork chops in an air fryer depend on the thickness of the meat and the desired level of doneness. It is recommended that pork chops be cooked to an internal temperature of 145° Fahrenheit to adhere to food safety guidelines. An instant-read food thermometer can be used to check if the pork chops have reached the desired temperature.

For boneless pork chops that are about 1-inch thick, cook at 375° Fahrenheit for around 9 minutes, flipping them halfway through. If your pork chops are thicker, increase the cooking time accordingly, as thicker chops will take longer to reach the desired internal temperature.

For medium-sized pork chops, a cooking time of about 10 minutes in an air fryer set to 380° Fahrenheit should be sufficient. However, it is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chops and the specific model of your air fryer. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chop to ensure it has reached at least 145° Fahrenheit.

Once the pork chops have reached the desired internal temperature, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring moist and tender pork chops.

Serving suggestions

When it comes to serving your juicy, tender, and crispy stuffed pork chops, you have a variety of side dish options to choose from. Here are some serving suggestions to complement your delicious main course:

Caramelized Brussels Sprouts:

Brussels sprouts are a classic side dish that goes well with pork chops. Caramelizing them adds a depth of flavour and a beautiful golden colour. This side dish is a tasty and healthy option to balance out your meal.

Creamy Parmesan Polenta:

For a heartier option, creamy polenta is a great choice. The Parmesan adds a nice sharpness that pairs well with the flavours of the pork chops. This side dish is sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings.

Steamed Carrots with Hot Honey Butter:

For a lighter, yet still indulgent option, steamed carrots with hot honey butter are a perfect choice. The sweetness of the carrots and honey complements the savoury flavours of the pork chops. This side dish adds a touch of elegance to your meal.

Green Beans and Mushroom Medley:

If you're looking for a vegetable side dish with a variety of flavours and textures, this medley is an excellent option. The green beans and mushrooms complement each other perfectly and provide a healthy and tasty addition to your plate.

Awesome and Easy Creamy Corn Casserole:

For a comforting and creamy side dish, this corn casserole is a great choice. It's easy to prepare and pairs well with the pork chops, adding a touch of sweetness to your meal.

Roasted Beet and Kale Salad:

If you're looking for something on the lighter side, this salad is a nutritious and colourful option. The roasted beets and kale provide a range of textures and flavours that will refresh your palate between bites of juicy pork chop.

Frequently asked questions