Air Fryer Pork Chops: Tender, Juicy Perfection

If you're looking for a quick, easy, and healthy way to cook pork chops, then look no further than your air fryer. This handy kitchen gadget can have juicy and tender boneless pork chops on your table in as little as 10 minutes. The key to success is getting the right combination of seasonings and knowing when to flip your chops.

Choosing the right pork chops

Thickness: Opt for thicker pork chops, ideally between 1 ½ to 2 inches thick. Thicker chops provide a more generous window for cooking time, allowing you to achieve a beautiful char on all sides without overcooking. Thin pork chops tend to cook too quickly and may not develop the desired crust.

Bone-in vs. Boneless: While this recipe calls for boneless pork chops, you can also use bone-in chops. Bone-in chops have more flavour and require a slightly longer cooking time. If using bone-in chops, ensure they are thick cuts to allow for even cooking.

Size and Thickness Consistency: Select pork chops that are similar in size and thickness. This ensures that they cook evenly and are done at the same time. Cooking chops of varying sizes together may result in some being overcooked or undercooked.

Quality: Whenever possible, choose high-quality, fresh pork chops from a trusted butcher or grocery store. Look for chops with a nice marbling of fat, which will contribute to juiciness and flavour. Avoid chops with excessive amounts of fat or connective tissue, as these can affect the final texture.

Freshness: Opt for fresh pork chops rather than frozen ones. Fresh chops tend to yield better results in terms of texture and flavour. If you must use frozen chops, thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

By following these guidelines when selecting your pork chops, you'll be well on your way to creating tender and mouthwatering boneless pork chops in your air fryer.

Making a rub

• Brown sugar, paprika, ground mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
• Olive oil, coconut aminos (or soy sauce or tamari), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, pressed garlic cloves, salt and pepper.
• Olive oil, onion powder, ground mustard, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
• Parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, salt, parsley and pepper.
• Olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper and thyme.

To make the rub, simply mix together your chosen ingredients in a small bowl. You can then coat your pork chops in a small amount of olive oil and rub the seasoning mix into both sides of the meat.

Preheating the air fryer

First, check if your air fryer has a preheat setting. If it does, simply set the temperature to 400°F and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. If your air fryer does not have a preheat function, you can manually preheat it by setting the temperature to 400°F and letting it run for 5 minutes. This will ensure that your air fryer is sufficiently warmed up before adding the pork chops.

It is important to note that the preheat temperature and time may vary slightly depending on your specific air fryer model. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for your particular air fryer to ensure optimal results.

Once your air fryer has preheated, you can proceed with the rest of the recipe. Place the seasoned pork chops into the air fryer basket, ensuring that they are not overlapping. Depending on the size of your air fryer and the thickness of your pork chops, you may need to cook them in batches.

By preheating your air fryer, you create the ideal cooking environment for your pork chops. This helps ensure that your pork chops turn out juicy and tender, with a delicious crispy exterior.

Remember, preheating your air fryer is a crucial step in achieving the best results for your tender boneless pork chops. By following these instructions, you'll be on your way to a delicious and perfectly cooked meal!

Cooking the chops

The key to cooking juicy and tender boneless pork chops in an air fryer is to not overcook them. The air fryer's rapid air circulation cooks the pork chops evenly, resulting in a crispy exterior and a juicy interior.

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes.
• Blot the pork chops with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
• Drizzle olive oil on each pork chop and rub it all over, ensuring the sides are coated as well.
• Prepare a rub by combining spices such as brown sugar, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and thyme. You can adjust the spices to your taste preferences.
• Sprinkle the rub on both sides of the pork chops, using your hands to ensure the rub is absorbed into the meat.
• Spray your air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Place the seasoned pork chops in the preheated air fryer, ensuring there is space between them for the air to circulate. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
• Cook the pork chops for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your pork chops.
• Remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving. This step helps the juices redistribute, ensuring the pork chops remain moist and tender.

It is important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops. According to the US Pork Board, the proper internal temperature for pork is 145°F.

Resting the chops

If you are cooking a large batch of pork chops, you may need to cook them in batches and keep the cooked chops warm while the rest are cooking. You can do this by placing them on a wire rack on a baking tray in a warm oven (about 200°F).

It's also important to let the chops come to room temperature before cooking. Take them out of the fridge 30 minutes before you plan to cook them. This allows the chops to cook more evenly.

Frequently asked questions