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Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops: Easy Juicy Recipe

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These crispy air fryer pork chops are made without breading, using a simple dry brine for a crackly crust and tender, juicy interior. Ready in under 20 minutes of active time, they’re perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt (or to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil or light olive oil

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops completely dry with paper towels. Place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Sprinkle both sides evenly with kosher salt—about ½ teaspoon per chop. Refrigerate uncovered for at least 8 hours and up to 24 hours.
  2. About 30 minutes before cooking, remove the chops from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature. Sprinkle both sides with black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Rub the spices gently into the surface.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
  4. Brush or rub a thin layer of avocado oil onto both sides of each chop.
  5. Place the chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, not touching or overlapping. Cook in batches if necessary.
  6. Cook at 400°F for 8 minutes. Do not open the basket during this time.
  7. Flip each chop using tongs. Cook for another 6-8 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part.
  8. Transfer the chops to a cutting board or plate and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, dry brine the pork chops 8-24 hours ahead. Do not skip the rest time after cooking. If your air fryer runs hot, reduce temperature to 375°F for the second half. For thinner chops (less than ¾ inch), reduce cooking time by 2 minutes. For thicker chops (over 1¼ inches), add a few minutes and check internal temperature.

Nutrition

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