air-fryer pork chop

#### Instructions

1. **Preheat the Air Fryer:**
– Preheat your **air fryer** to **375°F (190°C)** for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures that the air fryer is hot and ready to cook the pork chops evenly.

2. **Prepare the Pork Chops:**
– Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step is essential to achieving a crispy crust.
– Rub both sides of the pork chops with **olive oil**, and season generously with **garlic powder**, **onion powder**, **smoked paprika**, **salt**, and **pepper**. Make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed on both sides.
– If you want to add a little extra flavor, you can marinate the pork chops for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking, but it’s not necessary for delicious results.

3. **Cook the Pork Chops:**
– Place the seasoned pork chops into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping to allow for even air circulation. If you have larger pork chops or a smaller air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.
– Cook at **375°F (190°C)** for **12-15 minutes**. After about 6-7 minutes, flip the pork chops to ensure they cook evenly on both sides. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your pork chops and the type of air fryer, so check for doneness using a meat thermometer.

4. **Check for Doneness:**
– The internal temperature of the pork chops should reach **145°F (63°C)** for safe consumption. If you don’t have a thermometer, the pork chops should be golden brown on the outside and no longer pink in the center.
– Once the pork chops are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the pork chops remain tender and juicy.

5. **Serve:**
– Serve your **Air Fryer Pork Chops** with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch.

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#### Tips for Success

– **Thickness Matters:** The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the pork chops. For thinner chops (around 1/2 inch), check for doneness after 10 minutes. For thicker chops (over 1.5 inches), you may need to increase the cooking time by 3-5 minutes.
– **Don’t Overcrowd the Basket:** For the best results, place the pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can prevent even cooking and crisping.
– **Rest Before Slicing:** Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking to ensure the juices remain inside the meat. This step is key for juicy, tender pork chops.
– **Add Your Favorite Flavors:** Feel free to experiment with different seasoning blends. Herbs like rosemary or thyme, or spices like cumin and chili powder, can give your pork chops a unique twist.

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#### Why You’ll Love It

Cooking **Air Fryer Pork Chops** is a quick, easy, and healthier way to enjoy this classic dish. The air fryer ensures that the pork chops cook evenly, retaining their natural juices while developing a delicious, crispy crust. Plus, there’s no need for excessive oil or frying, making this a lighter option compared to traditional pan-fried pork chops.

This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted based on your flavor preferences, whether you like your pork chops savory, spicy, or sweet. With just a few simple steps, you can have a satisfying meal ready in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend meals.

**Air Fryer Pork Chops** are juicy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making them a great go-to recipe for anyone who loves tender, crispy pork chops. Try this recipe today, and you’ll never look at cooking pork chops the same way again!