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Air Fryer Boneless Pork Chops - Juicy, Flavorful, and Fast

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Boneless pork chops: 4 chops, about 1-inch thick (6–8 ounces each)
  • Olive oil: 1–2 tablespoons
  • Brown sugar: 1 teaspoon (optional but great for caramelization)
  • Kosher salt: 1 teaspoon
  • Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground
  • Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Paprika: 1 teaspoon (sweet or smoked)
  • Dried thyme or Italian seasoning: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Optional: Pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat
  • Cooking spray: For the air fryer basket (if needed)
  • Lemon wedges: For serving (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer. Set it to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. A hot basket helps build a golden crust.
  2. Pat the pork chops dry. Use paper towels to remove excess moisture. Dry meat browns better and cooks more evenly.
  3. Mix the seasoning. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme (or Italian seasoning), and brown sugar. Add cayenne if you like heat.
  4. Oil and coat. Rub both sides of the pork chops with olive oil. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly on all sides, pressing it in so it sticks.
  5. Prep the basket. Lightly mist the air fryer basket with cooking spray if your model tends to stick.
  6. Air fry. Arrange the chops in a single layer with space between them. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes total, flipping halfway. Start checking at 7 minutes.
  7. Check internal temperature. Use an instant-read thermometer. You’re aiming for 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part for juicy, safe pork.
  8. Rest the meat. Transfer to a plate and rest for 3–5 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside.
  9. Serve. Squeeze a little lemon over the top and finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you’d like.