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Best Ever Air Fryer Pork Chops

Best air fryer pork chops with an impeccably golden, seasoned crust all over and a supremely juicy interior. Cooked in 12 minutes at 400°F with a quick seasoning rub for a crispy air fryer pork dinner.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Rest 3 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pork chops and seasoning rub
  • 4 bone-in pork chops About 1 inch thick
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp brown sugar
  • 1 salt To taste
  • 1 black pepper To taste
  • 1 lemon wedges For serving

Equipment

  • 1 air fryer

Method
 

Prep and season
  1. Pat the pork chops completely dry with paper towels—this is essential for a crispy crust. Pat until the surface looks matte rather than slick.
  2. In a bowl, mix garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried Italian seasoning, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the spices are evenly combined.
  3. Brush the pork chops with olive oil, then rub the spice mixture firmly all over both sides. Press the seasoning on so it adheres in an even layer.
Air fry
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes. You want the basket hot before the pork goes in.
  2. Air fry the pork chops for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the crust is deeply golden.
Rest and serve
  1. Rest the pork chops for 3 minutes before serving. This helps the juices set, keeping the interior juicy.
  2. Serve with lemon wedges. Squeeze over the chops right before eating for brightness.

Notes

For the crispiest crust, thoroughly dry the pork chops and press the spice rub firmly so it sticks. Refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container for up to 3 days; reheat in the air fryer at 360°F for 3–4 minutes to re-crisp. Freezing is not recommended for best texture. For a lighter option, use a nonstick oil sprayer with olive oil or substitute with avocado oil (same amount).