Easy Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe

Easy Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Use your trusty air fryer (or air fryer toaster oven) to make the best (and easiest) pork chops of your life. Trust us once you try this air fryer pork chop recipe, you'll never go back to your old method again.

Why Cook Pork Chops In the Air Fryer?

The air fryer's rapid air circulation yields pork chops that are crispy on the outside, yet flavorful and juicy on the inside. What more could you want in an easy pork chop recipe?

How to Make Air Fryer Pork Chops:

  1. Mix Parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, salt, parsley, and pepper in a shallow dish.
  2. Coat each pork chop with olive oil, then dredge them in the seasoned cheese mixture.
  3. Place two pork chops at a time in the preheated air fryer.
  4. Flip the pork chops halfway through cooking.
  5. Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving.

How Long to Cook Pork Chops In the Air Fryer:

This recipe should completely cook medium-sized pork chops in about 10 minutes in an air fryer set to 380F (190C). However, since pork chops vary in thickness, its always best to check the internal temperature. Using an instant-read food thermometer, the thickest part of the chop should register at least 145F (63C).

What to Serve With Pork Chops:

These delicious pork chops deserve an equally delicious side dish. Here are a few tasty options:

  • Green Beans and Mushroom Medley
  • Awesome and Easy Creamy Corn Casserole
  • Roasted Beet and Kale Salad

How to Store Air Fryer Pork Chops:

Store leftover pork chops in an airtight or tightly wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven set to 350F (175C), adding a few drops of broth or water to prevent them from drying out. Heat until warmed through.

Community Tips and Praise:

  • "This recipe was very good, quick, and easy," raves laurieb2508. "I added smoked paprika to add more flavor and a small amount of Panko breadcrumbs, and it turned out great!"
  • "Super easy, delicious, and made with items that I have in my pantry," according to Lala.
  • "Delicious!" says Sabrina. "I used 1-inch thick boneless pork chops and air fried for 17 minutes. They came out golden brown with a perfect crust. Will definitely make again!"

Ingredients:

  • cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 4 (5-ounce) boneless pork chops
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Directions:

  1. Gather the ingredients and preheat the air fryer to 380F (190C).
  2. In a shallow dish, combine Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, parsley, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Coat each pork chop with olive oil. Then dredge both sides of each chop in the Parmesan mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. Set aside on a plate.
  4. Place 2 pork chops in the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking.
  5. Once cooked, transfer the chops to a cutting board and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  6. Repeat the process with the remaining pork chops. Serve hot and enjoy!

Recipe Tip: For easy cleanup and less mess, mix the Parmesan mixture in a long flat-lidded plastic to-go . Place one chop in at a time, snap the lid, and shake. Transfer the coated chop to a plate and repeat with the remaining chops. This method ensures perfectly coated chops every single time!

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

  • Calories: 305
  • Fat: 17g (21% Daily Value)
  • Saturated Fat: 5g (25% Daily Value)
  • Cholesterol: 90mg (30% Daily Value)
  • Sodium: 685mg (30% Daily Value)
  • Total Carbohydrate: 2g (1% Daily Value)
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g (1% Daily Value)
  • Protein: 35g (71% Daily Value)
  • Vitamin C: 1mg (1% Daily Value)
  • Calcium: 121mg (9% Daily Value)
  • Iron: 1mg (6% Daily Value)
  • Potassium: 457mg (10% Daily Value)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Easy Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe

Easy Air Fryer Pork Chops

Author: Nicole Russell

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

Origin and History of Pork Chops

Pork chops are a traditional dish in many cultures around the world, particularly in the United States, where they have become a staple of home cooking. Historically, pork was one of the most common meats consumed in Western diets, especially in rural areas, because pigs are easy to raise and provide versatile cuts of meat. The dish itself dates back centuries, with pork being a popular meat for roasting, grilling, and frying. The modern-day method of air frying, however, is a relatively new technique that allows cooks to prepare pork chops with minimal fat, while still achieving a crispy exterior and juicy interior.

Regional Variations

Pork chops are popular worldwide, but they often come with regional twists. In the American Midwest, for example, breaded and fried pork chops are common, served with mashed potatoes and gravy. Meanwhile, in Southern cuisine, you may encounter the beloved smothered pork chops a dish where the chops are cooked in a savory gravy. Air fryer pork chops, as seen in this recipe, are an innovation in modern cooking, where the traditional breaded pork chop gets a healthier makeover by eliminating the need for deep-frying, using an air fryer to achieve the desired crispness without the added oil.

How Air Fryer Pork Chops Differ From Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional methods of cooking pork chops, which often involve pan-frying or baking in a conventional oven, air fryer pork chops are quicker, require less oil, and are generally considered healthier. The air fryers rapid air circulation cooks the pork chops quickly, creating a golden-brown crust while keeping the interior moist and tender. Traditional methods often leave pork chops dry, especially if theyre overcooked. Air frying ensures an evenly cooked chop with a crispy, Parmesan-coated exterior, something that is not commonly achieved with other cooking methods.

Where Are Air Fryer Pork Chops Usually Served?

Air fryer pork chops are typically served in casual dining settings and home kitchens. Their ease of preparation makes them a favorite for weeknight dinners, yet theyre also versatile enough to serve at family gatherings or informal dinner parties. Because they are both delicious and quick to prepare, air fryer pork chops are popular in busy households that need a nutritious and satisfying meal on the table in under 30 minutes. The dish pairs well with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or fresh salads.

Interesting Facts About Pork Chops

Did you know that pork is the most consumed meat in the world? Pork chops, specifically, are one of the most versatile cuts of meat, used in a variety of cuisines from German to Chinese dishes. The air fryer, which has become a kitchen favorite in recent years, has revolutionized how we prepare traditionally deep-fried foods. The air fryers ability to cook foods with significantly less oil while still achieving a crispy texture is one of the reasons why air fryer pork chops have gained so much popularity. The flavor-packed crust, often made with ingredients like Parmesan and garlic, seals in the juices, resulting in a mouthwatering pork chop every time!

Conclusion

The Easy Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe is a modern, healthier twist on a classic dish. It combines the benefits of using an air fryer for quick, oil-free cooking with the rich, savory flavors of Parmesan and seasonings. Whether youre a busy parent, a home cook looking to try something new, or someone who simply loves tender, juicy pork chops, this recipe is sure to impress!

FAQ about Easy Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe

Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in foil in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, consider adding a few drops of broth or water to prevent dryness, and heat them in an oven set to 350°F until warmed through.

Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops. Just note that they may require a slightly longer cooking time due to the bone. It's best to check the internal temperature with a thermometer to ensure they reach at least 145°F.

If the coating falls off during cooking, it could be due to the pork chops being too wet before dredging, or the oil not being enough to bind the coating. Ensure the chops are patted dry before coating, and consider using a bit more oil to help the crust stick better.

If you're using thicker pork chops, you'll need to increase the cooking time. Try adding 2-3 extra minutes per side, depending on the thickness. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.

Yes, you can customize the seasoning mixture to your liking. For added flavor, try including onion powder, dried rosemary, or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also mix in breadcrumbs, like Panko, for extra crunch.

If your air fryer doesn't reach 380°F, set it to the closest available temperature. If your air fryer goes up to 375°F or 400°F, you can still cook the pork chops with a minor adjustment to cooking time—just check for an internal temperature of 145°F.

Yes, you can freeze cooked pork chops. Allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil or placing them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

The best way to ensure your pork chops are fully cooked is to use an instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chop, and the temperature should read at least 145°F. After cooking, allow the chops to rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.

Comments

Gail

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

GREAT flavor! I'd use thicker chops next time or cut time by a few minutes if you only have thin ones!

appyface

11/18/2021 05:06:48 AM

Fabulous. Rinsed and patted dry six thin cut pork chops. One at a time, lightly spritzed both sides with avocado oil and coated them "shake n bake style" in a gallon zip-loc bag. Cooked all six at once as my air fryer is large enough. Six minutes per side and let rest a couple of minutes. Will definitely make again!

WorthyDish9102

01/23/2024 04:04:27 AM

This was a HUGE hit at my house. It was super easy and quick to make. I will definitely be making this again as the family asked for seconds. I did add 1/2 tsp of onion powder and 1/2 tsp of dried rosemary,only because we love rosemary and onion..Big big hit. Thank you for the recipe..big thumbs up 😃

CraftyCarp1429

10/09/2024 01:47:38 PM

Came out very well. I brined the chops first (1L water and 2tbls salt and sugar) for about 45 minutes, then followed the recipe. I added some panko to the parm mix, because I had some left. Excellent!

DREGINEK

11/29/2024 04:34:57 PM

Wonderful! Quick! Easy! Wow! made this using 6 5oz chops about 1” thick. So I doubled all the seasonings but used 3/4c Parmesan cheese and used half paprika, half smoked paprika. I cooked three chops at a time for the 10 min but, in my air fryer, they came out closer to 160 degrees and - especially after letting sit. While they weren’t tough, they weren’t as moist and tender as I think they have the potential to be. Second batch, took out at 8min and let rest. While they were still at 155, a bit more juicy. Love the “crust” on this. I will absolutely make this again - just need to slightly adjust the time for my air fryer. Dinner to table in under 20 min. Thanks Nicole R! We loved it!

Jenna's Mom

03/11/2023 03:59:05 PM

I used those big Costco boneless pork chops. I had to cut them in half as they were so thick. I used Parm cheese and Montreal Steak Seasoning mixed together. I upped the temp to 385 as I had 4 pieces of pork in my air fryer. 6 minutes on each side, and I did a final cook at 400 for 3 minutes to brown the top. It was perfectly cooked and the husband raved about it!

montwayne

05/04/2023 09:32:27 PM

Excellent recipe, we use it over and over. We like thin cut chops, so we cut two minutes off the cook time. We get crisp on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside meat. I use coarse salt, and a little more of it for our favorite taste. This is obviously a keeper, but also one to share.

Jacob Jackson

08/30/2023 10:46:08 PM

Quick, easy, and everyone enjoyed it.

Kathi

05/28/2025 08:24:37 PM

The flavor was okay. I thought the mixture did not need salt. Parmesan cheese is salty on its on. I found the coating to salty. Additionally, when I went to turn pork chop the coating came off. Why did this happen?

Mr Zipper

10/26/2021 06:08:38 PM

The chops were quite tasty and juicy and were a hit with me and the kids. I will be making again, although next time I would go a little lighter on the salt. The cheese is salty and the extra salt can be toned down. Also, I had to cook for 15 minutes.

SnappyCress4328

02/01/2023 01:04:05 AM

My pork chops came out so tender and juicy. I followed another reviewer's idea of adding Italian breadcrumbs. Awesome. Unless I grill them, this is the only way I will prepare pork chops.

Joanne Weber

09/25/2025 07:17:13 PM

I thought the pork chops were very tender and tasty. I also used this recipe for chicken breast and they came out delicious.

Thelma

09/18/2025 05:48:36 PM

It was awesome and followed recipe exactly.

Kentucky Butch and Connie

09/09/2025 10:44:22 AM

Made it as directed with no changes. Wife and I agree it was delicious. Will definitely try again!

Betty

08/04/2025 10:59:53 PM

I followed the recipe except I added panko crumbs, per another review. The flavor with these seasonings, coupled with air frying the boneless pork chops, were outstanding! This is a keeper! Thank you!

Enrique Mendez

07/30/2025 12:43:51 AM

Good

MaryB

07/29/2025 09:41:59 PM

very tasty!

Lorri

07/21/2025 04:02:08 AM

I found this to be very salty. Next time I will leave out the salt. But it was so delicious inspite of the too salty for me. Absolutely making again!

PlushFlan4695

07/06/2025 11:41:50 PM

Oh my goodness! Love, love, love!!! Followed the recipe pretty much to a T. (Maybe a sprinkle or two more of the mix.) Super quick and easy, fun to make, and my family loves them! Thank you!!

Conniegas

06/01/2025 08:33:41 PM

I used a thick boneless chop, cooked on 375 (air fryer does not have 380) for 14 minutes flipping halfway. So juicy and tasty! Will make this again!!