Air Fryer Pork Chops
Recipe Tested & Approved by Mia Hartwell
Every recipe is developed, cooked, and tested by Mia in a real home kitchen using everyday ingredients to ensure reliable, repeatable results.
Juicy, golden pork chops with a savory spice rub, cooked in the air fryer in about 12 minutes. Quick, hands-off, and far more tender than the dry chops many people remember.
By Mia HartwellUpdated December 23, 2025
Developed using tested cooking methods — cook to the temperatures given and adjust times to your equipment.
Why you'll love this recipe
- Juicy pork chops in about 12 minutes
- 38g of protein per serving
- A simple spice rub and hands-off cooking
- Naturally low-carb and gluten-free
Air Fryer Pork Chops
20 min totalServes 4
Nutrition (per serving)
Values are estimates. See our disclaimer for details.
- Calories
- 320kcal
- Protein
- 38g
- Carbs
- 2g
- Fat
- 17g
- Fiber
- 0g
- Sugar
- 1g
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Pat the pork chops dry and rub all over with the olive oil.
- 2
Combine the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper, and season the chops on both sides.
- 3
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (205°C) for 3 minutes.
- 4
Air fry the chops 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- 5
Rest the chops for 3-5 minutes before serving — this is essential for juicy pork.
- 6
Serve with vegetables, rice, or a salad.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Pork is safely cooked at 145°F (63°C) with a 3-minute rest, and stays much juicier than the old well-done standard.
- Choose chops at least 1 inch thick; thin chops overcook and dry out fast.
- Pat the chops dry and don't crowd the basket so they brown rather than steam.
- The rest is non-negotiable — cutting in too soon lets the juices run out.
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How to Cook Air Fryer Pork Chops
New to this dish? Follow along with the detailed guide below — we break down each stage so you get perfect results the very first time.
Season thick chops
Start with chops at least an inch thick so they can brown in the air fryer without overcooking inside. Pat them dry, oil them, and apply the spice rub on both sides for an even, savory crust.
Cook hot and flip
A hot 400°F air fryer browns the exterior quickly. Flip the chops halfway so both sides color evenly, and use a thermometer rather than guessing — pork chops go from juicy to dry in just a few degrees past 145°F (63°C).
Rest before serving
The most important step for juicy pork is the rest. Letting the chops sit for a few minutes allows the juices to redistribute and the temperature to finish climbing safely, so they stay moist when you cut in.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F so they warm through without drying out.
Serving Suggestions
This air fryer pork chops pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, crusty bread, or your favorite grain. Add a simple side of roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying dinner the whole family will enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature is pork done at?+
The USDA safe temperature for pork chops is 145°F (63°C) followed by a 3-minute rest, which leaves them juicy and slightly pink in the center.
Can I use bone-in chops?+
Yes — bone-in chops work and are very flavorful; add a couple minutes and still cook to 145°F (63°C).
How do I keep them from drying out?+
Use thick chops, don't overcook past 145°F (63°C), and always let them rest before slicing.
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