Air Fryer Thin Pork Chops are a quick and tasty way to enjoy juicy, flavorful pork without a lot of fuss. These chops get a nice golden crust from the air fryer while staying tender inside, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels just a little special. The air fryer helps keep things easy and clean, which I always appreciate after a busy day.
I love making these pork chops because they come together so fast, but still taste like you spent a lot more time in the kitchen. I usually season them with a simple mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder, which brings out the meat’s natural flavor without overwhelming it. If you like a bit of spice, adding a pinch of paprika or cayenne can give them a nice little kick.
My go-to way to serve these is with a side of steamed veggies and a quick salad. They’re also great sliced up on top of rice or mixed into a pasta dish for a meal that’s filling and fuss-free. Whenever I make these, they disappear fast, so I’m pretty sure they’re a hit no matter who’s at the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Thin Pork Chops: Thin chops cook fast and stay juicy in the air fryer. If you can’t find thin ones, use bone-in or thicker chops but increase cooking time. Watch closely to avoid drying out.
Olive Oil: Helps the seasonings stick and creates a nice crust. You can swap for avocado oil or any neutral oil if preferred.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, smoked paprika, and thyme create a tasty simple rub. If you don’t have smoked paprika, use regular paprika or chili powder for a smoky touch. Dried Italian herbs work well instead of thyme.
Fresh Parsley & Rosemary: These fresh herbs add a nice pop of color and a fresh flavor at the end. Feel free to use just parsley or a sprinkle of chives or basil instead.
How Do You Keep Thin Pork Chops Juicy and Tender in the Air Fryer?
Thin pork chops cook very quickly, so it’s easy to overcook and dry them out. Here’s what works best:
- Pat the pork dry before seasoning – this keeps them from steaming.
- Use a light coating of oil to help the seasoning stick and promote browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; air needs to circulate for even cooking.
- Flip the chops halfway through cooking for even color.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; 145°F is perfect. Pull them out promptly.
- Letting the chops rest a few minutes before cutting helps the juices stay inside.
By following these tips, you’ll get chops that are tasty outside and tender inside every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I love mine because it cooks the pork evenly and quickly without extra oil.
- Meat thermometer – helps you check when the pork reaches 145°F and stays juicy.
- Small bowl – for mixing spices so they’re ready to apply evenly.
- Brush or spoon – to lightly coat the pork chops with olive oil before seasoning.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use Cajun seasoning or fajita spice mix instead of the dry herbs for different flavor profiles.
- Add a squeeze of lemon or a dash of balsamic vinegar after cooking for extra tang.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese or a little shredded cheese before serving for extra richness.
- Mix in a pinch of cayenne or Chipotle powder for added heat and smoky flavor.
Air Fryer Thin Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 thin pork chops (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh rosemary sprig (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and easy! You’ll spend about 5 minutes prepping and seasoning the pork chops, and around 8-10 minutes cooking them in the air fryer. Plus, set aside another 3-5 minutes to let the pork rest after cooking. Altogether, it should take about 15-20 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. While it’s warming up, pat your pork chops dry with paper towels to take off any extra moisture. This helps them cook nicely and get a better crust.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Brush both sides of the pork chops lightly with olive oil, then rub the spice mix all over them evenly.
3. Cook in the Air Fryer:
Lay the pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid stacking or crowding them to make sure they cook evenly. Cook for 8-10 minutes at 400°F, flipping the chops halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check—they’re done at 145°F (63°C).
4. Rest and Garnish:
Take the pork chops out and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy and tender. Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and add a sprig of rosemary if you like for a touch of color and flavor.
Enjoy your simple, juicy, and delicious Air Fryer Thin Pork Chops!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops in the Air Fryer?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. Cooking from frozen can result in uneven cooking and a less tender chop.
How Do I Prevent Thin Pork Chops from Drying Out?
Pat the chops dry, use a light coating of oil, and avoid overcooking by monitoring the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Resting the chops after cooking also helps keep them juicy.
Can I Adjust the Seasonings to My Taste?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap smoked paprika for regular paprika or add a little cayenne for heat. You can also experiment with herbs like rosemary or oregano for different flavor twists.
How Should I Store Leftover Air Fryer Pork Chops?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave to keep them tender and delicious.