These air fryer pork chops turn out juicy and tender every time, packed with smoky, savory flavor, and they’re ready in under 20 minutes, quick, easy, and downright delicious.
Does air frying pork chops actually work? It does! I am a skeptic turned believer. I've been making pork chops on the grill, stove top, and in the oven for many, many years, and I had to give the air fryer a go.
I'm very happy I did. After testing, I have this recipe exactly where I want it - just for you. These pork chops are rubbed with oil and zingy mustard, seasoned with a bold and smoky mix, then air fried until juicy and perfectly cooked.
Why This Recipe Works
- Air Fryer Magic. The air fryer delivers juicy pork chops with a crisp, flavorful crust in a fraction of the time. No need to babysit a skillet or fire up the oven.
- Bold Seasoning Blend. A smoky mix of paprika, garlic, mustard, and herbs adds layers of flavor that complement pork perfectly. Plus, it's customizable!
- Foolproof & Flexible. This recipe is easy to follow, works great with boneless or bone-in chops, and you can easily adapt it to your personal spice preferences. It delivers consistent results every time!
Air Fryer Pork Chops Ingredients & Substitutions
The full ingredients list with measurements is listed in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
Best Pork Chops for Air Frying
For the juiciest results, choose pork chops that are at least 1 inch thick, whether boneless or bone-in. Thicker chops retain moisture better during air frying and develop a nicely browned exterior without overcooking.
Boneless pork chops cook slightly faster. Center-cut chops are best. Bone-in pork chops tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Add 1-2 minutes to account for the bone.
Thinner chops can be used, but can cook too quickly and become dry with air frying. If you need to use them, reduce the cook time and keep a close eye on internal temperature.
For the Spice Rub
I'm using a blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and kosher salt. It's the perfect mix. Feel free to use your favorite spice blend if desired, as the recipe will work with any mix. You'll love my Cajun seasoning recipe.
You will also need:
- Olive Oil. Or use vegetable oil.
- Spicy Brown Mustard. Helps the spices adhere to the pork. Use Dijon mustard as a substitute.
How to Make Air Fryer Pork Chops (Boneless or Bone-In)
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels for better browning, then brush them with olive oil and mustard.
Rub in the spices, then place the pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Air fry the seasoned pork chops in a preheated air fryer at 380°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature hits 145°F (63°C). Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your pork chops. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Boom! Done! Your air fry pork chops are ready to serve. Rest a few minutes before serving.
Recipe Tips & Notes
- Experiment with Seasonings. Customize the spice rub with your favorite herbs and spices, such as Italian seasoning, chili powder, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. For BIG flavor, use my blackening seasoning recipe, Creole seasoning recipe, or your favorite blend.
- Preheat the Air Fryer. Pre-heating the air fryer helps the pork chops cook evenly and achieve a nice sear.
- Don't Overcook. Pork chops can dry out quickly. Rely on a meat thermometer rather than just cooking time.
- Bring to Room Temperature. Letting the pork chops rest at room temp for 20-30 minutes before cooking promotes even cooking.
- Make a Marinade or Brine for Extra Juiciness. Soak in a simple marinade or brine for 30 minutes to a few hours before air frying (be sure to dry thoroughly afterward). Try my Pork Chop Marinade Recipe! It is perfection!
Serving Suggestions
Pork chops are great served with Hot Honey Roasted Carrots, Southern Collard Greens, Charleston Red Rice, or Scalloped Potatoes.
Don't forget the sauce! Try my Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce recipe, which is perfect for pork chops, or this unique White BBQ Sauce (Alabama White Sauce) recipe.
BBQ sauce is always a hit, and some of my favorites are Peach-Bourbon Barbecue Sauce, Spicy Honey BBQ Sauce, and Mango-Habanero BBQ Sauce.
Cookbook Recommendation
If you enjoy spicy cooking, I hope you'll check out my cookbook! 100 easy recipes with big, bold flavor.
- Flavor Madness Cookbook, by Mike Hultquist
Tools Used For This Recipe
SIMOE 19QT Oven & Toaster, Retro Air Fryer + Convection Toaster Oven, 7 in 1 Combo - This is what I have at home and I love it!
Amazon Affiliate links, my friends! As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Storage & Reheating for Leftovers
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, air fry at 350°F for 4-5 minutes, or until heated through. You can also warm them in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, for about 10 minutes to help retain moisture.
Avoid microwaving, as it can dry them out.
That's it, my friends. I hope you enjoy this air fryer pork chop recipe. I want to hear how it turns out, and how you served yours!
Want More Pork Chop Recipes?
Got any questions? Ask away! I’m happy to help. If you enjoy this recipe, I hope you’ll leave a comment with some STARS. Also, please share it on social media. Don’t forget to tag us at #ChiliPepperMadness. I’ll be sure to share! Thanks! — Mike H.
Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 boneless or bone-in pork chops about 1-inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon spicy brown mustard or use Dijon
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
Instructions
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels for better browning. It also helps the seasoning stick.
- In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt.
- Brush both sides of the pork chops with olive oil and mustard. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides.
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Place the pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer - do not overcrowd. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature hits 145°F (63°C). Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your pork chops and your air fryer model. Bone-in pork chops may need 1-2 minutes longer. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Remove to a plate and rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve.
Nutrition Information
Ross A Stevens says
Tried this last night. I added a dash of Cajun seasoning to the spices, Wonderful!
Mike Hultquist says
Glad you enjoyed it, Ross. I wonder what would kick it up to 5 stars!
Ingrid says
seems delicious, I'm going to make it tonight
Mike H. says
Sounds like a plan. Enjoy!
Kim R says
My oven has an air fry setting, will this recipe work?
As always, thank you Mike for the scrumptious recipes!
Mike Hultquist says
It should work, Kim, yes! Just be sure to check the temps of the pork. I would check the internal temp a bit early just to be sure to not overcook. Let me know how it turns out. Enjoy!
Elliot says
Another great recipe. This is a great quick meal idea to add some spice to your meal after a busy workday.
Use English mustard instead of Dijon if you want the chops extra hot and clear those sinuses!
Mike H. says
Happy you are enjoying it, Elliot!
Gail says
Sounds so good! Can you use the same recipe to cook in the oven?
Mike Hultquist says
Gail, for Oven Baked Pork Chops, refer to my Pork Chop Marinade Recipe here: https://www.chilipeppermadness.com/recipes/pork-chop-marinade/. Enjoy!!