Savory, juicy, and perfectly crisp—air fryer pork chops are the ultimate weeknight dinner game-changer! Whether you’re craving classic comfort food or want to try something new, these 23 mouthwatering recipes deliver incredible flavor with minimal effort. From garlic-herb sensations to sweet and spicy glazes, get ready to fall in love with pork chops all over again. Let’s dive into these must-try creations!
Garlic Herb Air Fryer Pork Chops
When the craving for a comforting yet sophisticated dinner strikes, these garlic herb air fryer pork chops deliver restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Wonderfully aromatic and perfectly juicy, they transform humble pork chops into an elegant centerpiece worthy of any weeknight table or casual gathering.
Ingredients
- Pork chops – 4 (1-inch thick)
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp
- Garlic powder – 1 tsp
- Dried rosemary – 1 tsp
- Dried thyme – 1 tsp
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – ½ tsp
Instructions
- Pat pork chops completely dry with paper towels to ensure a crisp exterior.
- Brush both sides of each pork chop evenly with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, dried rosemary, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each pork chop, pressing gently to adhere.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
- Arrange pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for air circulation.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, then flip each pork chop using tongs.
- Continue air frying for another 6–8 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F when measured with an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
- Transfer pork chops to a clean cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Marvelously tender with a golden, herb-crusted exterior, these chops boast a beautiful balance of savory garlic and earthy herbs. Masterfully juicy and aromatic, they pair wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or a bright arugula salad for a complete meal that feels both rustic and refined.
Honey Mustard Air Fryer Pork Chops
Revered for its perfect balance of sweet and savory, honey mustard pork chops achieve new heights of culinary excellence when prepared in the air fryer. This method yields remarkably juicy interiors beneath a beautifully caramelized crust, transforming a weeknight staple into an elegant centerpiece. With minimal effort and maximum flavor payoff, this dish exemplifies modern cooking sophistication.
Ingredients
Pork chops – 4 (1-inch thick)
Olive oil – 2 tbsp
Dijon mustard – ¼ cup
Honey – 3 tbsp
Garlic powder – 1 tsp
Salt – 1 tsp
Black pepper – ½ tsp
Instructions
1. Pat pork chops completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
2. Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
3. Whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until fully combined.
4. Brush the honey mustard mixture evenly over both sides of each pork chop, using all of the mixture.
5. Arrange pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.
6. Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes.
7. Flip pork chops using tongs and continue air frying for another 6-8 minutes.
8. Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer – remove when it reaches 145°F for perfect doneness.
9. Transfer pork chops to a clean cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to redistribute juices.
Achieving a golden, slightly crisp exterior while maintaining tender, pink-centered meat makes these chops exceptional. The honey mustard glaze caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer’s intense heat, creating complex sweet-savory notes that complement the pork’s natural richness. Consider serving alongside roasted sweet potatoes and sautéed kale for a complete meal that balances the dish’s bold flavors with earthy accompaniments.
Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Pork Chops
Glistening with golden perfection, these Parmesan crusted pork chops emerge from the air fryer with a crisp exterior that gives way to remarkably juicy meat. Generously coated in savory cheese and aromatic seasonings, they achieve restaurant-quality elegance with minimal effort and maximum flavor. This method transforms simple pork chops into a sophisticated weeknight dinner that feels both indulgent and effortlessly prepared.
Ingredients
- Pork chops – 4 (1-inch thick)
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp
- Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
- Panko breadcrumbs – ½ cup
- Garlic powder – 1 tsp
- Paprika – 1 tsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Black pepper – ¼ tsp
- Egg – 1 large
Instructions
- Pat the pork chops completely dry with paper towels to ensure optimal crust adhesion.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes to create the ideal cooking environment.
- Whisk the egg in a shallow bowl until uniformly smooth and pale yellow.
- Combine Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a separate shallow dish, mixing thoroughly with a fork.
- Brush both sides of each pork chop lightly with olive oil using a pastry brush.
- Dip each oiled pork chop into the beaten egg, coating all surfaces evenly and allowing excess to drip off.
- Press the egg-coated pork chop firmly into the Parmesan mixture, ensuring full coverage on both sides and edges.
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the coated pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for air circulation.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, then carefully flip each chop using tongs.
- Continue air frying for another 6-8 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F on an instant-read thermometer.
- Transfer the cooked pork chops to a wire rack and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices evenly.
Velvety tender beneath their crackling Parmesan crust, these pork chops deliver a satisfying contrast of textures that elevates the humble chop to new heights. Vibrant with garlic and paprika notes, they pair beautifully with roasted asparagus or a crisp arugula salad for a complete meal that impresses without complexity.
Maple Glazed Air Fryer Pork Chops
On crisp autumn evenings, few dishes satisfy quite like perfectly cooked pork chops, and this maple-glazed version transforms the humble cut into something truly spectacular. Our air fryer method ensures juicy, tender results with minimal effort, creating a dish that feels both rustic and refined. The sweet-savory glaze caramelizes beautifully under the high heat, making this recipe ideal for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties.
Ingredients
Pork chops – 4 (1-inch thick)
Maple syrup – ¼ cup
Dijon mustard – 2 tbsp
Apple cider vinegar – 1 tbsp
Garlic powder – 1 tsp
Salt – 1 tsp
Black pepper – ½ tsp
Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
- Pat pork chops completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
- Brush both sides of pork chops evenly with olive oil using a pastry brush.
- Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, pressing the seasonings into the meat.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking from the start.
- Arrange pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for air circulation.
- Air fry at 400°F for 8 minutes, then flip chops using tongs for even cooking on both sides.
- Continue cooking for another 6-8 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F when tested with a meat thermometer.
- While pork cooks, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl until smooth.
- Brush the maple glaze mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops during the final 3 minutes of cooking.
- Remove pork chops from air fryer and let rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
Juicy and caramelized, these pork chops emerge with a beautiful glossy finish and tender interior that practically melts in your mouth. The maple glaze creates a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the savory pork, while the air fryer delivers an impressive crust without drying out the meat. For an elegant presentation, serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon or over creamy polenta to soak up every last drop of the delicious glaze.
Spicy Cajun Air Fryer Pork Chops
Heralding the perfect union of Southern spice and modern convenience, these Spicy Cajun Air Fryer Pork Chops deliver restaurant-quality flavor with effortless preparation. Heirloom techniques meet contemporary cooking methods in this dish that promises a crispy, well-seasoned crust enveloping juicy, tender pork.
Ingredients
– Pork chops – 4 (1-inch thick)
– Olive oil – 2 tbsp
– Cajun seasoning – 2 tbsp
– Salt – 1 tsp
– Black pepper – ½ tsp
Instructions
1. Pat pork chops completely dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness.
2. Brush both sides of each pork chop evenly with olive oil.
3. Combine Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
4. Rub seasoning mixture generously onto all surfaces of the pork chops.
5. Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
6. Arrange pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.
7. Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes.
8. Flip pork chops using tongs and cook for another 8-10 minutes.
9. Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should read 145°F for perfect doneness.
10. Let pork chops rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute. Generously spiced with a satisfying crunch giving way to succulent, perfectly cooked pork, these chops offer layers of heat and flavor. Glazed with a golden crust that crackles with each bite, they pair beautifully with creamy grits or a crisp apple slaw for contrasting textures that elevate the entire meal.
Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Pork Chops
Gracefully bridging the gap between weeknight simplicity and gourmet appeal, these lemon pepper air fryer pork chops deliver restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Golden-crusted and perfectly seasoned, they emerge from the air fryer with a delightful crispness that belies their quick preparation time.
Ingredients
– Pork chops – 4 (1-inch thick)
– Olive oil – 2 tbsp
– Lemon pepper seasoning – 2 tsp
– Salt – ½ tsp
– Garlic powder – 1 tsp
Instructions
1. Pat pork chops completely dry with paper towels to ensure optimal browning.
2. Brush both sides of pork chops evenly with olive oil using a pastry brush.
3. Combine lemon pepper seasoning, salt, and garlic powder in a small bowl.
4. Sprinkle seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each pork chop, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes until hot.
6. Arrange pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping.
7. Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, then flip chops using tongs.
8. Continue air frying for 8-10 more minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F on an instant-read thermometer.
9. Transfer pork chops to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
10. Serve immediately while hot and crispy. Zestfully bright and satisfyingly crisp, these chops boast a perfect balance of citrus tang and peppery warmth. The exterior develops an irresistible golden crust while the interior remains remarkably juicy and tender. For an elegant presentation, slice against the grain and serve over creamy polenta or alongside roasted asparagus spears.
Smoky Barbecue Air Fryer Pork Chops
Wondrously tender and infused with deep, complex flavors, these air fryer pork chops deliver the soulful satisfaction of traditional barbecue with modern convenience. The smoky rub creates a beautiful crust while sealing in the natural juices, transforming simple chops into an elegant weeknight dinner. Perfect for busy households seeking restaurant-quality results without the lengthy cooking process.
Ingredients
Pork chops – 4 (1-inch thick)
Smoked paprika – 2 tbsp
Brown sugar – 1 tbsp
Garlic powder – 1 tsp
Onion powder – 1 tsp
Black pepper – ½ tsp
Salt – 1 tsp
Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
1. Pat pork chops completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
2. Brush both sides of each pork chop lightly with olive oil using a pastry brush.
3. Combine smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl.
4. Press the spice mixture firmly onto both sides of each pork chop, creating an even coating.
5. Let the seasoned pork chops rest at room temperature for 15 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate.
6. Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes until the basket is hot.
7. Arrange pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch.
8. Air fry for 10 minutes at 400°F until the exterior develops a dark, caramelized crust.
9. Flip pork chops carefully using tongs to preserve the spice coating.
10. Continue air frying for another 6-8 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F on an instant-read thermometer.
11. Transfer pork chops to a clean cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Remarkably juicy with a perfect balance of sweet and smoky notes, these chops feature a crisp exterior that gives way to tender, pink-tinged meat. Resting ensures the juices redistribute throughout, creating an exceptionally moist bite. Consider serving over creamy polenta or alongside grilled corn for a complete meal that celebrates the harmony of textures and flavors.
Crispy Breaded Air Fryer Pork Chops
Zestfully transforming the humble pork chop into a culinary masterpiece requires nothing more than your air fryer and a few pantry staples. These crispy breaded cutlets achieve a perfect golden crust while maintaining remarkably juicy interiors, making weeknight dinners feel effortlessly sophisticated. The magic lies in the precise technique that creates that satisfying crunch without the need for excessive oil.
Ingredients
Pork chops – 4 (1-inch thick)
Flour – ½ cup
Eggs – 2 large
Breadcrumbs – 1 cup
Salt – 1 tsp
Black pepper – ½ tsp
Paprika – 1 tsp
Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
1. Pat the pork chops completely dry with paper towels to ensure the breading adheres properly.
2. Combine the flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika in a shallow dish.
3. Whisk the eggs in a separate shallow dish until fully blended.
4. Place the breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish for your breading station.
5. Dredge each pork chop thoroughly in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
6. Dip the floured pork chop into the egg mixture, coating both sides completely.
7. Press the pork chop firmly into the breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating on all surfaces.
8. Lightly spray or brush both sides of the breaded pork chops with olive oil.
9. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
10. Arrange the pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them.
11. Air fry at 400°F for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking time.
12. Check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F using a meat thermometer.
13. Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Velvety interiors contrast beautifully with the shatteringly crisp exterior, creating a textural symphony that elevates this classic comfort food. Consider serving these golden cutlets alongside roasted garlic mashed potatoes or atop a vibrant arugula salad for a complete meal that balances richness with freshness. The subtle smokiness from the paprika enhances the pork’s natural sweetness, making each bite both comforting and sophisticated.
Teriyaki Air Fryer Pork Chops
Masterfully balancing sweet and savory notes, these teriyaki-glazed pork chops achieve restaurant-quality perfection with minimal effort. Marinated in a glossy, umami-rich sauce before meeting the air fryer’s intense heat, they emerge with a caramelized exterior that gives way to exceptionally juicy meat. This modern approach delivers all the depth of traditional teriyaki with the convenience and crisp texture that makes air frying so beloved.
Ingredients
- Pork chops – 4 (1-inch thick)
- Soy sauce – ¼ cup
- Brown sugar – 2 tbsp
- Rice vinegar – 1 tbsp
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Cornstarch – 1 tsp
- Sesame seeds – 1 tsp
Instructions
- Whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and minced garlic in a medium bowl until the sugar fully dissolves.
- Place pork chops in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each chop is fully coated on both sides.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for exactly 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate without toughening the meat.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking from the moment the pork chops enter.
- Remove pork chops from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off, and reserve the remaining marinade in the bowl.
- Arrange pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for proper air circulation.
- Air fry at 400°F for 8 minutes, then flip each chop using tongs to ensure even browning on both sides.
- Whisk cornstarch into the reserved marinade until no lumps remain to create a smooth thickening agent.
- Pour the cornstarch-marinade mixture into a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens to a glaze consistency, about 2-3 minutes.
- Brush the thickened teriyaki glaze generously over both sides of the pork chops after flipping.
- Continue air frying for another 6-8 minutes at 400°F until the internal temperature reaches 145°F when measured with an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chop.
- Transfer the pork chops to a clean plate and let them rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over the glazed pork chops just before serving.
These chops boast a beautifully lacquered crust that crackles slightly before yielding to remarkably tender, pink-centered meat. The glossy teriyaki coating provides a perfect balance of salty-sweet intensity that complements the pork’s natural richness. Try serving them sliced over steamed jasmine rice with a drizzle of extra glaze, or pair with crisp-tender broccoli for a complete meal that feels both sophisticated and comforting.
Rosemary and Thyme Air Fryer Pork Chops
Wrapped in the earthy embrace of rosemary and thyme, these air fryer pork chops transform humble ingredients into an elegant weeknight feast. The aromatic herbs create a golden crust that locks in succulent juices, while the air fryer delivers restaurant-quality results with remarkable ease. This sophisticated preparation proves that impressive dining need not require hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
– Pork chops – 4 (1-inch thick)
– Olive oil – 2 tbsp
– Fresh rosemary – 1 tbsp, minced
– Fresh thyme – 2 tsp, minced
– Garlic powder – 1 tsp
– Salt – 1 tsp
– Black pepper – ½ tsp
Instructions
1. Pat pork chops completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
2. Brush both sides of each pork chop evenly with olive oil using a pastry brush.
3. Combine rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
4. Rub the herb mixture generously over all surfaces of the pork chops, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes until the basket is hot.
6. Arrange pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for air circulation.
7. Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, then flip chops using tongs.
8. Continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F on an instant-read thermometer.
9. Transfer pork chops to a clean cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
Now, these perfectly cooked chops reveal a juicy interior beneath their fragrant, crispy crust. The rosemary and thyme create a symphony of woodland flavors that pair beautifully with roasted root vegetables or a simple arugula salad. Consider slicing the rested chops and arranging them over creamy polenta for an elevated presentation that belies the recipe’s simplicity.
Asian-Inspired Sesame Air Fryer Pork Chops
Just when you thought pork chops couldn’t get more irresistible, this Asian-inspired sesame version transforms the humble cutlet into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece with the magic of your air fryer. Juicy, perfectly seasoned pork emerges with a delicate crunch and complex umami notes that will have your family requesting this on weekly rotation. Golden sesame seeds create an elegant crust while aromatic flavors meld beautifully in every bite.
Ingredients
– Pork chops – 4 (1-inch thick)
– Soy sauce – ¼ cup
– Sesame oil – 2 tbsp
– Honey – 2 tbsp
– Rice vinegar – 1 tbsp
– Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
– Ginger – 1 tsp, grated
– Sesame seeds – 2 tbsp
– Cornstarch – 1 tbsp
– Green onions – 2, sliced
Instructions
1. Whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a medium bowl until fully combined.
2. Place pork chops in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each chop is thoroughly coated on both sides.
3. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for exactly 30 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate without breaking down the meat’s texture.
4. Remove pork chops from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off, and pat completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper crisping.
5. Sprinkle cornstarch evenly over both sides of each pork chop, using your fingers to distribute it in a thin, uniform layer.
6. Press sesame seeds firmly onto both sides of each pork chop, creating an even coating that will toast during cooking.
7. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes to ensure immediate searing when the pork enters the basket.
8. Arrange pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for proper air circulation.
9. Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, then carefully flip each chop using tongs to maintain the sesame crust.
10. Continue air frying for another 8-10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F on an instant-read thermometer.
11. Transfer pork chops to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
12. Garnish with sliced green onions just before serving to maintain their fresh, crisp texture.
Glazed with that beautiful sesame crust, these pork chops achieve a remarkable textural contrast between the crackling exterior and succulent interior. The subtle sweetness from honey balances the savory soy notes, while the toasted sesame seeds provide nutty complexity that elevates this beyond ordinary weeknight fare. Consider serving over jasmine rice to catch every drop of the flavorful juices, or slice thinly for elegant lettuce wraps that showcase the perfect caramelization.
Simple Ranch Air Fryer Pork Chops
Hearty yet refined, these ranch-seasoned pork chops emerge from the air fryer with a golden crust and tender interior, offering a quick weeknight solution that feels anything but ordinary. Harnessing the magic of dry heat and strategic seasoning, this recipe transforms humble chops into a dish worthy of both casual dinners and impromptu gatherings. Here, simplicity meets sophistication in every juicy bite.
Ingredients
– Pork chops – 4 (1-inch thick)
– Olive oil – 1 tbsp
– Ranch seasoning mix – 2 tbsp
Instructions
1. Pat the pork chops completely dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness.
2. Brush both sides of each pork chop evenly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of ranch seasoning mix over both sides of the pork chops, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes for optimal cooking performance.
5. Arrange the pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for air circulation.
6. Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, then flip each chop using tongs.
7. Continue air frying for another 6–8 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F on an instant-read thermometer.
8. Let the pork chops rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before serving to redistribute juices.
You’ll find the exterior delightfully crisp with herby notes from the ranch, while the interior remains remarkably moist and flavorful. Try serving these chops sliced over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal that balances ease with elegance.
Conclusion
Delicious possibilities await with these 23 air fryer pork chop recipes! From quick weeknight dinners to impressive weekend meals, there’s something for every taste and occasion. We’d love to hear which recipes become your family favorites—drop a comment below and share your culinary creations. Don’t forget to pin this article to your Pinterest boards so you can easily find these mouthwatering recipes again!
