In my opinion, the air fryer is THE way to prepare pork chops for a quick weeknight meal. These juicy air fryer pork chops are fast, easy, and made with simple ingredients, no brown sugar required. The air fryer method creates chops that are full of flavor and perfectly cooked on the inside with crispy, seasoned edges.
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Whether I’m using boneless or bone-in chops, I know they’ll be perfectly juicy every time. One of my favorite high-protein dinners, this recipe pairs well with a variety of side dishes for an easy meal I can count on when life gets busy. It’s been a family favorite from the first time I made it and is one of those easy recipes that never gets old.
Recipe Highlights
Quick and easy: This best pork chops recipe is ready to eat in just 15 minutes, making it one of my go-to air fryer recipes for busy days.
No added sugar: Unlike many pork chop recipes that call for brown sugar, olive oil, or breading, this version gets its flavor from a simple blend of Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic, and onion.
Boneless or bone-in chops: I’ve tested this recipe countless times to ensure it works for both bone-in and boneless pork chops. That way, I can use whatever I have on hand and know they’ll come out juicy and tender.
Nutritious and versatile: These pork chops are dairy-free, egg-free, gluten-free, grain-free, nut-free, Paleo, Whole30, fairly low in saturated fat and trans fat, and high in protein, making it easy to meet my daily protein goals.
Ingredient Spotlights
- Pork chops: Both bone-in and boneless pork chops work well. I look for chops that are roughly 1 inch thick for even cooking without drying out.
- Celery salt: This is a seasoning made from ground celery seeds that are blended with salt. It provides a concentrated celery-like taste that I think pairs so well with pork.
- Italian seasoning: This seasoning blend of basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram, this is one of my best shortcuts to incredible flavor without the need for tons of spices.
- Paprika: I use regular paprika when cooking for my little ones, but like to add some depth by using smoked paprika when cooking for adults.
Other than these spices, I simply call for ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Easy peasy!
Find the ingredient list with exact measurements in the recipe card below.
How To Air Fry Pork Chops
- Season the pork chops: Whisk the seasonings in a small bowl, and sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops. I use my hands to rub the mixture into the chops, making sure it adheres to the meat.
- Cook pork chops: Arrange the chops in a single layer in a preheated air fryer basket, and cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F when tested with an instant-read thermometer. Boneless chops need around 6 minutes per side and bone-in chops require about 8 minutes per side. I explain more about timing in the FAQ below.
- Serve: Let the cooked pork chops rest at room temperature for at least 5 minutes before serving. This allows the natural juices to redistribute, preventing them from drying out or becoming tough. Then, slice, serve, and enjoy.
For serving size and the complete directions and ingredient amounts, scroll down to the recipe card below. All recipes include the nutrition analysis, listing calories (kcals), protein, carbohydrates/carb, fiber, sugar, sodium, cholesterol, and more per serving.
Great Dishes To Serve On The Side
Sometimes I sprinkle these air fryer pork chops with Parmesan cheese for extra savory, salty flavor and a boost of calcium before serving. I pair them with a veggie side, such as roasted butternut squash, air fried zucchini, or roasted green beans. And, I round out the meal with a starch-based side, such as mashed sweet potatoes, Instant Pot mashed potatoes, quinoa, or roasted baby potatoes.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Leftover air fryer pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them great for meal prep. To prevent them from drying out, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes or just until warmed through. Or, warm the leftover chops in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to lock in moisture. I always avoid microwaving, because it tends to make the meat tough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, cook times can vary slightly depending on the size, wattage, and style of air fryer. Thin pork chops take less time than thick pork chops. Start with the times listed in the recipe card below, then check the internal temperature of the pork chops with a meat thermometer.
The key is to avoid overcooking. Keep an eye on the air fryer, and check for doneness, adjusting the cooking time as needed. Time will depend on the size and thickness of the chops and whether they have bones. I like to air fry at 400°F instead of 350°F so the chops cook faster without drying out. Then, I let the chops rest for 5 minutes before slicing to help the juices redistribute.
Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe
Made with everyday simple ingredients, these air fryer pork chops are flavorful, juicy, tender, and so easy to make. Use boneless or bone-in chops, and pair them with a side dish or two for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 (1-inch thick) bone-in or boneless pork chops (1 to 1 ½ lbs)*
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon celery salt
- ½ teaspoon fine salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Get Recipe IngredientsInstructions
- Preheat an air fryer to 400°F.
- Using paper towels, pat the pork chops dry on both sides.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, celery salt, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the pork chops and, using your hands, rub the mixture into the pork chops.
- Air fry the pork chops for 6 minutes on one side, then flip and air fry for another 6 minutes. The pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F when tested with a meat thermometer.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
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Notes
* The total cooking time ranges from 12-14 minutes, depending on the thickness of the boneless pork chops. For bone-in pork chops, increase the time to 8 minutes per side, air fry for 15-16 minutes total, and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 6 ounces pork chop
- Calories: 306
- Fat: 18 g
- (Sat Fat: 6 g)
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Carbohydrate: 0 g
- (Fiber: 0 g
- Sugar: 0 g)
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
Dietary
The photos in this post were taken by Megan McKeehan.
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