When you’re looking for a straightforward dinner that delivers on flavor and juiciness, air fryer pork chops are the answer. With minimal prep and a cooking method that keeps your kitchen clean, you can have perfectly cooked pork chops on the table in under an hour. The air fryer does wonders in retaining moisture while giving the meat a beautifully seared exterior.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 12 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: Variable, depending on marinating time (up to 12 hours)
- Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep with a fast cook time makes this ideal for weeknights.
- Consistent Results: The air fryer ensures the pork chops are juicy and perfectly cooked every time.
- Flexibility: Use bone-in or boneless chops with equally delicious results.
- Clean Cooking: The air fryer cuts down on mess, making cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
- 4 8-oz Pork chops (boneless or bone-in): The star of the dish; choose your preference for a slight variation in cooking time and flavor. Bone-in can add a bit more flavor.
- 1 recipe Pork chop marinade (or 2 tbsp pork chop seasoning): The marinade infuses the meat with flavor and tenderizes it; use pork chop seasoning for a quicker option.
How to Make It
Step 1: Prep the Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a nice, seared crust. If marinating, use your preferred recipe, remembering to allow at least 1 hour for flavors to meld. Do not exceed 12 hours to prevent the texture from becoming mushy.
Step 2: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400 degrees F (204 degrees C) and let it preheat for 5 minutes. Preheating is essential to start the cooking process with the right amount of heat, ensuring the pork chops cook evenly and quickly.
Step 3: Cook the Pork Chops
Arrange the pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. For 1-inch-thick boneless chops, cook for about 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The aim is an internal temperature of 145 degrees F (63 degrees C). If using bone-in chops, add 1-2 additional minutes. These visual and temperature cues ensure your pork is cooked safely while maintaining juiciness.
Recipe FAQs
Can I cook frozen pork chops in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen pork chops, but you will need to add about 4-5 minutes to the cooking time. Ensure they reach an internal temp of 145 degrees F (63 degrees C). It’s best to thaw them for more even cooking.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can use a convection oven set to the same temperature, but times may vary. Keep a close eye and check the internal temperature to ensure doneness.
Do I have to marinate the pork chops?
No, marinating is optional. It enhances flavor, but seasoning with a good-quality pork chop seasoning can also deliver excellent results for a quicker prep time.
