Air Fryer Pork Chops

Pork chops are an easy dinner staple, whether they're pan-fried or slow-cooked to perfection. But armed with a handy dandy air fryer, this favorite family meal is faster, easier, and a whole lot crispier! These chops are perfectly seasoned and breaded in panko breadcrumbs to give each bite delicious crunch. Pair with one of your favorite classic salads and a heap of fluffy mashed potatoes, and dinner is served!

Does the air fryer dry out pork chops?

Nope! In fact, the air fryer does just the opposite! Because pork chops are a lean cut, they can easily dry out when cooking, but they only cook for a short time in the air fryer in this recipe (we're talking less than 15 minutes), so they remain nice and juicy.

What temperature do you put the air fryer on for pork chops?

Air fryers will all heat a little bit differently. It's best to consult the instruction manual for your particular air fryer to settle on a temperature for the chops. Generally speaking, a temperature of 375 to 400 degrees should give you perfectly cooked chops that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. If using the The Pioneer Woman Air Fryer, we recommend cooking at a temperature of 400 degrees. 

Can I stack pork chops in an air fryer?

Its best to put your pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer, with at least ½ inch of space between the sides of each chop. An air fryer is basically a small countertop convection oven. Convection ovens cook by circulating air throughout the oven space so that whatever you are baking cooks evenly on all sides. That said, you want to make sure that all sides of your food are open to receive the hot, blowing air. A single layer of food is your best best for that.

Do I need to preheat an air fryer?

Nope, there's no need for this recipe. The pork chops cook to crispy, golden perfection with just a 12 to 15 minute visit to the air fryer (just be sure to flip half way!). 

How long does it take pork chops to cook in an air fryer?

This depends on how thick your pork chops are. If you're cooking thinner, breakfast style pork chops, you may only need 6 to 8 minutes. For these 1-inch-thick pork loin chops, it takes about 12 minutes. The true test of doneness, however, should always be the internal temperature of the chops. The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145 degrees.