Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe (2024)

This super easy, 3-ingredient Air Fryer Pork Chops recipe is one of the most incredible things to make in the Air Fryer. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also quick (15 min total) and mess-free since all the cooking splatter is contained within the air fryer basket.

Pair it with potatoes and salad for a complete meal that’s delicious and quick!

Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe (1)

The Trick to Getting Juicy Air Fryer Pork Chops

Pork chops are often hated for being tough and dry. But, if you treat a pork chop the same way you treat your steak – being careful not to overcook it, you’ll end up with the most delicious, juicy, yes, juicy cut of meat.

The trick with getting both the sear and the juiciness when cooking air fryer pork chops is to bring the meat closer to the top of the heating element while allowing the heat to freely circulate around the meat. I do this with steaks or any other cuts of meats that need to cook quickly and get a nice sear.

Trust me, once you cook air fryer pork chops, you’ll never cook pork any other way again.

Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe (2)

How to Get the Sear on Pork Chops using Air Fryer

To bring the meat closer to the top heating element I use one of my egg cooking racks that I originally purchased for cooking eggs in the pressure cooker. If you have anything else in the kitchen that can do the same job, use it, it doesn’t have to be the egg cooking rack specifically.

One thing to be careful of though is to not bring the air fryer pork chops too close to the cooking element as you don’t want the meat to set on fire. Make sure to have at least 2 inches between the heating element of the Air Fryer and the top of the rack on which the pork chops will cook. That’s if the pork chop is 1 inch thick.

Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe (3)

We like to serve the pork chops with pan-fried potatoes and a simple tomato salad.

What’s a safe temperature for pork?

According to USDA safe eating temperature for pork is 145F with a 3-minute rest after cooking. This means that the pork will still have a slightly pink middle after being cooked. The best way to know if the pork chops are cooked is to use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat to check the temperature.

So, why use an Air Fryer?

Cooking with an Air Fryer means using a convection-oven type method of cooking foods with hot, rapidly circulating air. Given that air fryers have small cooking baskets and lots of heat, some foods can be cooked quicker than using a traditional oven.

They also provide a better sear and fewer calories, since the foods are not deep-fried. Many love the flavor of deep-fried foods, so using an air fryer to achieve almost the same flavor without all the extra calories makes it such an appealing kitchen appliance.

Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe (4)

You May Like

Air Fryer French Fries
Air Fryer Steak Tips Recipe
Breakfast Potatoes in the Air Fryer

How to Make this Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe

*For detailed recipe instructions see the recipe card bottom of the post.

Learning how to make this air fryer pork chops recipe couldn’t be easier! In just a few minutes, you’ll have a healthy, high-protein dinner prepped and ready to go.

Air Fryer Pork Chop Ingredients:

Simpler than simple: pork chops, oil (or mayonnaise), Montreal Steak Seasoning. Sometimes I also sprinkle some smoked paprikafor that beautiful color, but that’s optional.

Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe (8)

How to make Juicy Pork Chops

This is as simple as it’s ever going to get. All you need is to preheat the Air Fryer, season the pork chops, and air fry.

Here’s how:

  • Preheat the Air Fryer at 400F for 5 minutes. If you have the egg steaming rack or anything else that can help bring the meat closer up to the heating element and allow air to circulate around it, place it inside the basket and preheat the air fryer with it. Make sure there’s at least 2 inches space between the rack and the top of the Air Fryer Basket. Meanwhile, work on the next steps.
  • Oil the pork chops on both sides to help the seasoning stick. Use your favorite steak seasoning (I like the Montreal Steak Seasoning) to coat both sides of the pork chops. Press the seasoning into the pork chops to help it adhere.
    • Pro tip: bring the meat to room temperature before cooking by removing it from the fridge about 1 hour before cooking. This will help to cook it more evenly.

  • You can trim the fat on the sides of the pork chop. Or, just do a couple of cuts along the fat edge to prevent the pork chops from curling as they cook.
  • Place the pork chops inside the Air Fryer Basket and cook for about 12 minutes, turning the meat halfway through. Check the meat with an instant-read thermometer to make sure the middle of the pork chop is at least 145F.
  • Let the meat rest for about 3 minutes to help the juices settle.

Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe (9)

Scroll to the bottom for the full recipe with precise ingredient amounts.

More Pork Recipes to Try:

  • Instant Pot Ribs Recipe
  • Bacon-Wrapped Pork Kabobs
  • 30-Minute Kabob Pork and Vegetables
  • Smoky Hunter’s Soup

Print

Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe

Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe (10)

5 from 9 votes

Super quick, easy, 3-ingredient Air Fryer Pork Chop recipe that uses a special trick to make it beautifully seared and juicy.

Author: Marina | Let the Baking Begin

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: air fryer pork chop

Calories: 282 kcal

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Servings: 2 pork chops

Ingredients

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer for 5 minutes at 400F. If you have an egg steaming rack or something else to bring the meat closer to the heating element, place it in the air fryer basket and preheat the air fryer with it inside. Make sure the top of the rack is at least 2 inches away from the top heating element.

  2. Meanwhile, season the pork chops by coating the outside with 1 tbsp of oil, then sprinkling 1 Tbsp of Montreal Steak seasoning and 1 tsp of smoked paprika. Press the seasoning into the pork chop by patting it down.

  3. Air Fry the pork chops by adding the meat on top of the preheated rack and cooking it for about 12 minutes, turning the meat halfway through. Then, insert a thermometer into the middle of the pork chop and make sure the instant-read thermometer reads at 145F°.

  4. Let the meat rest for about 3 minutes, then serve.

Nutrition Facts

Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe

Amount Per Serving

Calories 282Calories from Fat 153

% Daily Value*

Fat 17g26%

Saturated Fat 4g25%

Cholesterol 90mg30%

Sodium 66mg3%

Potassium 543mg16%

Carbohydrates 3g1%

Fiber 1g4%

Sugar 1g1%

Protein 29g58%

Vitamin A 572IU11%

Calcium 39mg4%

Iron 2mg11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Print

Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe (11)

Thank you for following me on Instagram, Facebook & Pinterest!

Hashtag your photos #LetTheBakingBeginBlog so I can see your creations and for a chance to be featured!

Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe (2024)

FAQs

How long should you cook pork chops in an air fryer? ›

Coat the pork chops with olive oil and rub in the mix. Rub it in well and liberally. Use almost all of the rub mix for the 2 pork chops. Cook pork chops in air fryer on the air fry setting at 400°F for 12-14 minutes or until internal temperature of 140°F. Flip pork chops over after 6 minutes.

How do you keep pork from drying out in an air fryer? ›

Using oil in an air fryer is perfectly fine and helps the meat to remain moist and come out looking golden brown. However, a little oil in an air fryer does go a long way. With most cuts of pork, simply rubbing some oil into the meat will be all you need. You can use either regular olive oil or a spray oil.

Is it better to cook pork chops at 350 or 400? ›

Tips for The Best Baked Pork Chops

Use a relatively low temperature to cook the baked pork chops slowly. 350 degrees F takes about 15 minutes longer to cook the chops to the right internal temperature than 400 degrees, but it results in a juicier and more flavorful meal.

How do you know when pork chops are cooked enough? ›

One way to determine your porks' doneness is by the color of the juices that come out of it when you poke a hole in it with a knife or fork. If the juices run clear or are very faintly pink, the pork is done cooking. If they're mostly or entirely pink or red, it's best to continue cooking.

What is the best method to cook pork chops? ›

Because one of the best ways to bake pork chops is to start in an oven-safe skillet on the stove and then transfer them into a hot oven. High-heat frying sears them to a golden brown; and a moderately hot oven (400 degrees F) bakes the pork chops gently enough to keep them from drying out.

Why are my air fryer pork chops tough? ›

Why are my air fryer pork chops tough? If your pork is tough, it's most likely because they are overcooked. Cooking to an internal temperature of 145F is the perfect temperature for juicy, tender pork chops.

Should I put oil in an air fryer? ›

While your Philips Airfryer does not require oil to cook and fry the food, adding oil directly to fresh ingredients when preparing them, such as freshly peeled potatoes or chicken, can create a crispy layer and improve the overall taste of your dish. Note: never pour oil into the pan of the airfryer.

How do you keep pork moist and tender? ›

Brining pork chops is one of the best ways way to guarantee a juicy cooked pork chop. Even a quick 30-minute brine (or up to four hours) makes a big difference. It's not strictly necessary — you can still use this method to make great pork chops even without brining — but if you have some extra time, I recommend it.

How to stop meat drying out in an air fryer? ›

Use Tinfoil As A Tool

Another tip that can help keep meats from losing moisture is to protect them with a physical barrier from the dry heat of the air fryer. Using tinfoil helps keep moisture locked in and around the meat, preventing over-evaporation.

How many minutes do you cook pork chops at 400? ›

At 400 degrees F you can count on 7 to 8 minutes for each 1/2 inch of thickness your pork chops are. So, 3/4-inch-thick chops will take 10 to 12 minutes, 1-inch-thick cooks in 15 to 16 minutes, and so on.

How many minutes do you cook pork chops at 350 degrees? ›

Baking pork chops at 350 degrees F will generally take 20 to 30 minutes.

What temperature are pork chops most tender? ›

The safe internal pork cooking temperature for fresh cuts is 145° F. To check doneness properly, use a digital cooking thermometer. Fresh cut muscle meats such as pork chops, pork roasts, pork loin, and tenderloin should measure 145° F, ensuring the maximum amount of flavor.

Is a little pink in pork ok? ›

If fresh pork has reached 145°F (62.8 °C) throughout, even though it may still be pink in the center, it should be safe. The pink color can be due to the cooking method or added ingredients.

Will pork chops get more tender the longer you cook them? ›

Because pork chops are such a lean cut, they are relatively quick-cooking and prone to overcooking. When they're cooked for even a few minutes too long, whether it's in the oven or on the stovetop or grill, they're quick to dry out, and — you guessed it — become tough, chewy, and less than appealing.

Is it better to cook pork chops slow or fast? ›

Slow Cook Pork Chops

To go low and slow with your pork chops, look to the slow cooker. This less common method of cooking pork can result in delicious, juicy meat!

Can you put raw pork in an air fryer? ›

It is safe to cook raw meat in the air fryer if it is fully defrosted, seasoned, and monitored. Some fully cooked foods, including chicken tenders or fries, can be placed frozen in the air fryer. However, with raw meat, it's recommended to thoroughly defrost to allow more even cooking and a tasty final product.

How long does it take to cook 1 inch thick pork chops? ›

How Long to Bake Pork Chops at 400 Degrees F. At 400 degrees F you can count on 7 to 8 minutes for each 1/2 inch of thickness your pork chops are. So, 3/4-inch-thick chops will take 10 to 12 minutes, 1-inch-thick cooks in 15 to 16 minutes, and so on.

How many minutes do you cook pork chops at 350? ›

Baking pork chops at 350 degrees F will generally take 20 to 30 minutes.

What temperature should pork chops be cooked at? ›

Cook all raw pork steaks, chops, and roasts to a minimum internal temperature of 145°F (62.8 °C) as measured with a food thermometer before removing meat from the heat source. For safety and quality, allow meat to rest for at least three minutes before carving or consuming.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Edwin Metz

Last Updated:

Views: 6512

Rating: 4.8 / 5 (58 voted)

Reviews: 89% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Edwin Metz

Birthday: 1997-04-16

Address: 51593 Leanne Light, Kuphalmouth, DE 50012-5183

Phone: +639107620957

Job: Corporate Banking Technician

Hobby: Reading, scrapbook, role-playing games, Fishing, Fishing, Scuba diving, Beekeeping

Introduction: My name is Edwin Metz, I am a fair, energetic, helpful, brave, outstanding, nice, helpful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.