Air Fryer Thin Pork Chops are a quick and easy way to get juicy, tender pork chops with a nice crispy outside. These chops cook super fast in the air fryer, making them perfect for busy weeknights when you want dinner on the table without a lot of fuss. The thin cut means they cook evenly and stay flavorful without drying out.
I love making these pork chops because they come out perfectly every time, and I don’t have to stand over the stove. I usually season them simply with salt, pepper, and a little garlic powder, and the air fryer does the rest. It’s one of those go-to recipes that makes me feel like I have dinner handled, even on my busiest days.
For serving, I like to pair these chops with a simple salad or some roasted veggies. They’re also great sliced up on top of a fresh green salad or tucked into a sandwich with a bit of mustard. I’ve found that this recipe is a real crowd-pleaser, and it’s always a hit when I make it for friends or family because it’s so straightforward but tasty.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Thin Pork Chops: Choosing chops about 1/2 inch thick helps them cook quickly and stay tender. If you can’t find thin pork chops, you can slice thicker chops thinner with a sharp knife for even cooking.
Olive Oil: This adds a bit of moisture and helps the seasoning stick. You can swap it for avocado or canola oil, both work well for air frying.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika give a nice flavor boost without too much effort. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine. Fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary add an earthy note but are optional.
Salt & Pepper: These are essentials for bringing out flavor. I usually go with kosher salt for seasoning—just watch the amount if your salt is fine-grained.
How Do You Get Juicy Pork Chops Without Overcooking in the Air Fryer?
Thin pork chops cook fast, so timing is key to avoid dryness. Here’s my method:
- Pat chops dry. This makes the outside crispier and the seasoning stick better.
- Preheat the air fryer so it’s hot when you put the chops in. A hot start helps seal in juices.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes total, flipping halfway for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temp of 145°F (63°C) — this is safe but still juicy.
- Let the chops rest for about 3 minutes after cooking so juices redistribute.
Following these steps means you get pork chops that are golden outside and tender inside every time. No guesswork needed!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I love it because it cooks quickly and makes the chops crispy without extra oil.
- Tongs – they help turn the pork chops easily without piercing the meat.
- Meat thermometer – ensures your pork chops reach 145°F for safety and juiciness.
- Small bowl – for mixing the seasoning blend.
- Paper towels – helpful for drying the pork chops before seasoning.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap paprika for chili powder to add some heat and smoky flavor.
- Add a touch of honey or brown sugar to the seasoning mix for a sweet and spicy glaze.
- Top with grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Use different herbs like sage or parsley to customize the aroma and taste.
Air Fryer Thin Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 thin pork chops (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh rosemary sprigs or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep the pork chops, roughly 6-8 minutes to cook in the air fryer, and about 3 minutes to rest before serving. In total, you can have delicious pork chops ready in around 15 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C), which usually takes about 5 minutes. While it’s warming up, pat your pork chops dry with paper towels — this helps the seasonings stick and ensures a crispy outside.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Lightly brush both sides of the pork chops with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme or rosemary (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chops, pressing gently so the spices stick well.
3. Cook in the Air Fryer:
Place the pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid stacking or overlapping so they cook evenly. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 6 to 8 minutes total. Flip the chops halfway through cooking (around 3-4 minutes) to get a golden brown finish on both sides. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
4. Rest and Serve:
Take the pork chops out and let them rest for about 3 minutes. This resting time lets the juices settle and keeps the meat tender. Garnish with fresh rosemary or parsley, if you like, and serve warm with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, a salad, or mashed potatoes.
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful air fryer thin pork chops — a quick and easy meal that tastes fantastic every time!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed pork chops for even cooking. If using frozen chops, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before air frying to ensure they cook properly and avoid drying out.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave until warmed through to keep them juicy.
Can I Adjust the Seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the smoked paprika for chili powder if you prefer a little heat, or add some brown sugar for a touch of sweetness. Fresh herbs like sage or parsley also make great variations.
What Should I Serve with Air Fryer Thin Pork Chops?
These chops pair well with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, mashed potatoes, or even rice. Choose sides that soak up the juices and complement the smoky, savory flavors.
