Perfect Air Fryer Pork Chops

by

Step 1: Brine the Pork Chops (Optional)

  1. Prepare the Brine:
    • In a large bowl, combine the water, salt, and sugar. Stir until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved.
  2. Brine the Pork Chops:
    • Place the pork chops in the brine solution. Let them soak in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This step helps the pork chops retain moisture and adds flavor.
  3. Remove and Pat Dry:
    • After brining, remove the pork chops from the solution and pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures a crispy coating.

Step 2: Season the Pork Chops

  1. Mix Seasonings:
    • In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Season the Pork Chops:
    • Rub the pork chops with olive oil, making sure they are coated on all sides. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each pork chop. For best results, let them sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
    • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve a crispy texture.
  2. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
    • Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Air Fry the Pork Chops

  1. Arrange the Pork Chops:
    • Place the seasoned pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding; work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
  2. Cook the Pork Chops:
    • Air fry the pork chops at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The exact cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the chops and your air fryer model. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.
  3. Check for Crispiness:
    • The pork chops should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. If needed, air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve your desired crispiness.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

  1. Rest the Pork Chops:
    • Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest on a plate for 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy pork chops.
  2. Garnish and Serve:
    • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired. The lemon adds a fresh burst of flavor that complements the savory pork chops.

Tips for Perfect Pork Chops

  • Choose the Right Cut: Bone-in pork chops tend to be more flavorful and juicy than boneless. However, you can use boneless pork chops if you prefer.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the pork chops in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the pork chops are cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  • Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting period. It’s crucial for keeping the pork chops juicy and tender.

Nutritional Information (Per Pork Chop, Approximate)

  • Calories: 300
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Protein: 30g

Conclusion

These Perfect Air Fryer Pork Chops are an easy and delicious way to enjoy a classic dish with a modern twist. The air fryer delivers a crispy, golden exterior while keeping the pork chops tender and juicy on the inside. With minimal prep and cook time, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal. Enjoy the savory flavors and crispy texture that will surely make your dining experience memorable!

Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings or marinades to tailor the pork chops to your taste. Enjoy your culinary adventure and happy air frying!

2 of 2Next

Leave a Comment