Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?

Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops typically have more flavor and stay juicier during cooking. You may need to add 1-2 minutes to the cooking time, but keep monitoring the internal temperature as your guide.

What can I substitute if I don't have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs work perfectly fine - just remember to use about half the amount called for in the recipe since dried herbs are more concentrated. For the compound butter, you can use ½ teaspoon dried parsley and ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary in place of the fresh herbs.

My pork chops always turn out dry. What am I doing wrong?

The most common cause of dry pork chops is overcooking. Invest in a good instant-read thermometer and cook just until the chops reach 145°F internally. Also, don't skip the dry brining step or the resting period after cooking, as both significantly improve juiciness.

Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?

Definitely! While the air fryer gives great results, you can also cook these pork chops in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat (about 4 minutes per side) or bake them in a 400°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. In both cases, aim for that same 145°F internal temperature.

Juicy Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe

Description

These juicy and flavorful air fryer pork chops are a quick and easy main course that delivers a perfect balance of tenderness and seasoning. Topped with an herbed compound butter, they become a show-stopping dish to impress your guests or simply elevate your weeknight dinner. The air fryer ensures a crispy exterior and juicy interior every time.

Ingredients

Scale

Pork Chops

2 thick cut pork chops (3/4-inch to 1-inch thick)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Compound Butter

4 tablespoons salted butter (softened)
1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 1 clove)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley)
1/2 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary (or 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

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Instructions

Prepare the Pork Chops
Place 2 thick cut pork chops on a rack with airflow above and below. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season all sides evenly with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Let the pork chops sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour to absorb the seasonings.
Make the Compound Butter
In a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons softened butter, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley), 1/2 teaspoon fresh rosemary (or 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary), 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce. Mix until smooth. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for thick pork chops. For thinner pork chops (less than 3/4 inch), preheat to 375°F (190°C). This difference in temperature ensures that the pork cooks evenly without becoming dry.
Dry and Prepare Pork Chops for Cooking
Pat the surface of the pork chops dry again with paper towels to eliminate any residual moisture, which ensures a golden crust after cooking.
Cook the Pork Chops
Arrange the pork chops in the air fryer basket, ensuring there’s space around each to allow for proper airflow. Cook for 5 minutes, then flip the chops and cook for an additional 5 to 6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Finish and Serve
Remove the pork chops from the air fryer and immediately place a generous spoonful of compound butter on top of each chop. Let the pork chops rest for 5-10 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute and the butter to melt luxuriously over the top. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

For thinner pork chops (less than 3/4 inch thick), reduce the air fryer temperature to 375°F and cook them for about 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
If using a toaster oven-style air fryer or a standard oven with air fryer settings, you may need to add 2-5 minutes to the total cooking time to ensure proper doneness.
Letting the pork chops rest before serving is crucial for maintaining their juiciness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 pork chop
Calories: 345
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 820mg
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 33g
Cholesterol: 115mg