Air Fryer Bone-In Pork Chops

These Air Fryer Bone-In Pork Chops are the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and flavorful! Coated with a delicious spice rub featuring smoked paprika, garlic, and brown sugar, they are cooked to perfection in the air fryer for a healthier, faster alternative to traditional frying. With minimal oil, these pork chops remain tender and juicy on the inside while achieving a perfectly crisp exterior. Ideal for busy weeknights, this easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality results every time. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops (¼ to ½-inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons smoked sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¾ teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Instructions

1. Begin by washing the pork chops and patting them dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, brown sugar, smoked sweet paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, mustard powder, onion powder, and thyme to form a thick paste.
3. Rub the spice paste generously on both sides of each pork chop, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
5. Place the pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Air Fryer Bone-In Pork Chops are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, with a delicious blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. The air fryer cooks the pork chops to perfection with minimal oil, making them a healthier option compared to traditional frying. The homemade spice rub gives these pork chops an incredible depth of flavor, and the quick cook time makes this recipe ideal for busy weeknights or a delicious weekend dinner.

Tips

• Pat dry: Make sure to thoroughly dry the pork chops before applying the rub to ensure the seasoning sticks and the meat crisps up in the air fryer.
• Flipping is key: Flipping the pork chops halfway through ensures they cook evenly on both sides and get a nice crispiness.
• Check internal temperature: To ensure your pork chops are cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to check that they’ve reached 145°F.
• Rest before serving: Allowing the pork chops to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute, making them more tender and flavorful.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the rub.
• Herbs: You can substitute the thyme with other herbs like rosemary, oregano, or sage for different flavor profiles.
• Sweeten it: If you prefer a sweeter flavor, increase the brown sugar to 3 tablespoons, or add a bit of maple syrup to the rub for a unique twist.
• Bone-In to Boneless: This recipe can be adapted for boneless pork chops, though the cook time may be shorter (about 6-8 minutes).

FAQs

• Can I use frozen pork chops?
  Yes! You can cook frozen pork chops in the air fryer, but be sure to increase the cooking time by about 5-7 minutes and check the internal temperature.
• What’s the best way to store leftovers?
  Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore the crispiness.
• Do I need to flip the pork chops?
  Yes, flipping them halfway through ensures even cooking and a crispy texture on both sides.

Serving Suggestions

These Air Fryer Bone-In Pork Chops are perfect when paired with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. For a full meal, serve with a side of rice or a creamy macaroni and cheese. They also go wonderfully with a tangy apple sauce or your favorite dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy with a glass of white wine or iced tea for a complete meal!