These easy air-fried thin pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! With just a sprinkle of seasoning, they cook up crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
I love how quickly they come together. Perfect for busy days when you want a tasty dinner without all the fuss. Plus, it’s a healthy way to enjoy pork chops!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Thin pork chops are the star here. If you can’t find them, you can use thicker chops, just adjust the cooking time. Boneless is easier for even cooking, but bone-in will add flavor.
Olive Oil or Butter: I prefer olive oil for its light taste, but butter gives a rich flavor. You can use any cooking oil you have on hand, such as avocado oil or canola oil.
Seasonings: Paprika gives a lovely color and mild flavor. If you don’t have it, try chili powder for a bit of heat, or Italian seasoning for a twist. Garlic and onion powder are easy to replace with fresh minced ones too, just use them sparingly.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness, but feel free to skip it if you don’t have any. A sprinkle of dried herbs works too!
How Do I Make Sure My Pork Chops Are Juicy?
To keep your pork chops juicy, start by prepping them properly. Here’s what to do:
- Make sure to pat them dry before adding oil and seasoning. This helps them crisp up!
- Brushing them with oil prevents them from drying out while cooking. Don’t skip this step!
- Using an instant-read thermometer is a game changer here. Cook until they reach 145°F (63°C), then let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making them tender and flavorful.
How to Make Easy Air Fryer Thin Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 thin pork chops (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: lemon wedges, for serving
- Side suggestion: steamed or air-fried broccoli
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes of preparation time and around 9 minutes of cooking time. That means you can have your delicious air-fried thin pork chops ready in about 20 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will make sure it’s hot enough to cook the pork chops evenly and give them a nice crispy texture. Let it heat up for about 5 minutes.
2. Prepare Your Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until mixed well. This will add a delicious flavor to your pork chops!
3. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help them become crispy in the air fryer. Brush both sides of the pork chops with olive oil or melted butter for added flavor and moisture.
4. Season the Pork Chops:
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly on both sides of the pork chops. Press down lightly with your fingers to make sure it sticks well.
5. Air Fry the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. This helps them cook evenly. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 7 to 9 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through for even cooking!
6. Check for Doneness:
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the pork chops has reached 145°F (63°C). If they need a little more time, simply air fry them for an extra minute or so.
7. Rest and Serve:
Remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for about 3 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring they’re juicy and tender. After resting, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with steamed or air-fried broccoli and lemon wedges if desired.
Enjoy your quick and flavorful air fryer thin pork chops!
FAQ for Easy Air Fryer Thin Pork Chops
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops?
While it’s best to use thawed pork chops for even cooking, you can use frozen ones if necessary. Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes, checking for doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C).
What Should I Do if My Pork Chops Are Overcooked?
If your pork chops are overcooked and dry, you can try adding a sauce on top or serving them with a flavorful side like applesauce to help add moisture. Make sure to monitor the cooking time closely next time to avoid this!
Can I Make These Pork Chops Without an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! You can pan-sear the pork chops in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side or bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently in the microwave or air fryer to keep them crispy. Just don’t overdo it to avoid drying them out!
