Air Fryer Thin Pork Chops are a quick and easy way to enjoy tender and juicy pork with a nice, crispy outside. These thin chops cook up fast and get that lovely golden crust without all the fuss of frying in a pan. The air fryer gives them a perfect texture that’s both light and satisfying.
I love making these chops when I want something simple but tasty on busy weeknights. I usually season them with a little salt, pepper, and garlic powder—just enough to bring out the natural pork flavor. The best part? They cook in just minutes, which means less time waiting and more time eating!
One of my favorite ways to serve these pork chops is alongside a fresh green salad or some roasted veggies. Sometimes, I even like drizzling a bit of honey mustard on top for a touch of sweetness. They’re such a crowd-pleaser that I find myself making them again and again whenever I want a fuss-free, satisfying meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Thin pork chops: I recommend chops about 1/2 inch thick. Thinner chops cook quickly and stay juicy. If you can’t find thin chops, you can slice thicker chops evenly or use pork cutlets instead.
Olive oil: This helps the seasoning stick and adds a little crispiness. You can swap it with avocado or vegetable oil if you prefer a different flavor or need a high-smoke point option.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder give the chops great flavor without being overpowering. If you like spice, try adding a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for some heat.
Fresh herbs (parsley & rosemary): They brighten the dish and add a fresh note on top. If you don’t have fresh, a sprinkle of dried herbs works fine too.
How Can I Make Sure Thin Pork Chops Stay Juicy and Not Dry Out?
Thin pork chops can dry out quickly if overcooked. Here’s how to lock in moisture and get a nice crust:
- Pat chops dry before seasoning to help them crisp up better.
- Brush oil on both sides so seasonings stick and create a slight crust.
- Preheat the air fryer fully before adding the chops for even cooking.
- Cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway to brown both sides well.
- Check with a meat thermometer for 145°F internal temp – it’s safe and juicy.
- Let the chops rest 3-5 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices.
These steps help keep the chops tender and delicious every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I love it for cooking pork chops quickly and evenly with less oil.
- Paper towels – to pat the chops dry, helping them crisp up better.
- Small bowl – for mixing seasonings, making it easy to coat the pork evenly.
- Tongs – to handle the chops without poking holes and losing juices.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use chili powder or cayenne to add some heat to the seasoning blend.
- Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce before cooking for umami flavor.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top after cooking for extra richness.
- Swap rosemary for thyme or sage to change up the herbal note.
Air Fryer Thin Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 thin-cut pork chops (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Fresh rosemary sprig (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 8-10 minutes to cook, plus an additional 3-5 minutes to let the pork chops rest. So altogether, you’ll be ready to enjoy delicious pork chops in about 15-20 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. This helps the pork chops cook evenly and get a nice, crispy crust.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove extra moisture. This step helps the seasoning stick and the edges to crisp up nicely.
3. Season the Pork Chops:
In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Brush both sides of the pork chops lightly with olive oil, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chop. Gently press the spices in so they stick well.
4. Cook the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd them to allow hot air to circulate properly. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping the chops halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest and Garnish:
Remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes—this helps keep them juicy. Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprig of rosemary, if you like.
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful thin pork chops fresh from the air fryer!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the pork chops in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat them dry well to ensure they get a nice crispy finish in the air fryer.
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, being careful not to overcook and dry them out.
Can I Adjust the Seasoning?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap smoked paprika with regular paprika or add herbs like thyme or sage. You can also add a bit of cayenne pepper if you like some heat.
What Side Dishes Pair Well with Air Fryer Pork Chops?
These chops go great with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or even rice. The simple seasoning pairs well with many sides!