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Juicy Air Fryer Pork Chops
Thick, juicy pork chops with a golden crust — no more dry, chewy pork chops ever again.
Total Time
19 min
Difficulty
Easy
Servings
2
Calories
340 cal
Why This Works
Pork chops dry out because they are lean and cook quickly. The air fryer's rapid heat creates a crust that seals in moisture, while the circulating air cooks the interior evenly. Cooking to the correct temperature (145°F, not the old 160°F standard) is the single biggest factor in juicy pork chops.
My Recipe Testing Notes
Pork chops have a reputation for being dry and tough, but the air fryer fixes that. I tested boneless vs. bone-in and found bone-in chops (at least 1 inch thick) stay significantly juicier. The most important step is not overcooking — pork is safe at 145°F (not 160°F as previously recommended). Pulling at 140°F and resting for 5 minutes brings it to exactly 145°F.
Ingredients
Helps with browning and adds subtle sweetness
Instructions
Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with olive oil.
Mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub all over both sides of the chops.
Preheat air fryer to 380°F for 3 minutes.
Place pork chops in the basket in a single layer.
Cook at 380°F for 7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 7 minutes.
Check internal temperature — you're looking for 140°F (it will rise to 145°F while resting).
Rest for 5 minutes before serving. Do not skip this step.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature should pork chops be cooked to?
The USDA updated the safe temperature for pork to 145°F (with a 3-minute rest). The old 160°F standard produces dry, overcooked pork. Always use a thermometer.
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, but reduce cooking time by 2-3 minutes. Boneless chops are thinner and cook faster. Check temperature at the 10-minute mark.
How do I prevent pork chops from curling in the air fryer?
Score the fat on the edge of the chop with a knife every inch or so. This prevents the fat from contracting and curling the chop during cooking.
Written by Sarah Jenkins
Former restaurant line cook turned home kitchen obsessive. I've tested over 200 air fryer recipes and I share exactly what works, what doesn't, and the temperatures that make the difference.
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