Crispy, Juicy, Flavor-Packed Air Fryer Pork Chops

These Air Fryer Pork Chops are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and full of flavor. The secret? A crunchy pork rind coating that gives them that golden, savory bite you just can’t resist. They’re easy to make, cook up fast, and happen to be gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy them.

Air Fryer Pork Chops

Fried pork chops are one of my most favorite meals, so I decided to try my hand at creating a delicious Whole30 friendly, gluten free fried pork chop.

Heavy on the delicious part because no matter how much I’m missing a food, I refuse to give up flavor just to have it.

I’d rather go without until I can have it rather than making something that is reminiscent in an unappetizing way.

These air fried pork chops are nothing short of amazing. They have a perfect crispy crust, juicy and flavorful insides and are seriously great.

My only regret is not creating this recipe sooner! Y’all are going to love them.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Pork Chops

• Quick and easy: This air fryer pork chop recipe comes together fast and is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Crispy and Juicy: Thanks to the the air fryer, you get a golden brown crust with tender, juicy chops inside.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and a few simple seasonings.
• Healthier Option: Less oil, but all the flavor of traditional fried pork chops.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Pork Chops

• Pork Chops: You can use boneless pork chops or bone-in pork chops.
• Egg: You’ll need one egg to help the pork rind crumbs stick to the meat.
• Water: Just a splash to thin out the coating.
• Pork Rind Panko/Bread Crumbs: Gives your pork chops a flavorful, crispy crust.
• Chicharron Salt: A sprinkle of this savory seasoning gives your chops a bold, smoky flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Brings out the natural flavor of the meat.

How to Make Air Fryer Pork Chops

Prepare the Egg Wash: Grab a small bowl and crack in your egg. Add a splash of water, a pinch of table salt, and a little black pepper. Whisk it all together until it’s smooth and combined.

Coat the Pork Chops: Pat your boneless pork chops or bone-in pork chops dry with a paper towel. Dip each chop into the egg wash, making sure all sides of the pork chops are coated. Then press each one into your pork rind panko breadcrumbs until completely covered.

Let Them Rest: Set your seasoned pork chops on a cutting board or plate and let them rest for about 15–20 minutes. This helps the coating stick, so it won’t fall off while cooking.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Turn on your air fryer and let it preheat for about 5 minutes at 400 degrees F. Spritz the air fryer basket with a little cooking spray or olive oil to keep them from sticking.

Air Fry the Pork Chops: Place your chops in a single layer inside the basket. Air fry your pork chops for 16–20 minutes total, flipping halfway through so both sides cook evenly. I like mine well done, so I cook them for 20 minutes.

Season and Serve: Once your air-fried pork chops are cooked to perfection, sprinkle on a little salt and black pepper, or chicharron salt if you’d like. Let them rest for 1–2 minutes before serving so the juices stay locked in.

Recipe Variations

• Parmesan-Crusted Pork Chops: Mix grated parmesan cheese into your pork rind panko for a flavorful crust.
• Sweet and Spicy Chops: Add a little brown sugar and a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to your seasoning mixture for a sweet heat flavor combo.
• Italian-Style Pork Chops: Sprinkle in some Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder into the egg wash.
• Smoky Mustard Chops: Stir a bit of ground mustard and smoked paprika into the coating for a tangy, smoky flavor.

Ways to Serve Air Fryer Pork Chops

• With a side of sweet potato fries or green beans for a classic Southern meal.
• Slice and serve alongside a fresh garden salad.
• Pair with Southern style crock pot pinto beans or homemade mashed potatoes.

How to Store Leftovers

Let your pork chops cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge—they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.

When you’re ready to reheat, the best way is to air fry pork chops again for a few minutes at 375 degrees F until warmed through. This keeps the crust nice and crispy instead of soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my pork chops are done?

Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature in the thickest part of the chop. It should reach 145 degrees F for perfectly tender pork chops.

Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?

Both bone-in pork chops and boneless chops work great in this recipe. Just keep in mind that thick-cut pork chops or bone-in chops may need a few extra minutes of cook time for the best results.

How do I keep the breading from falling off?

The simplest way is to let your seasoned pork chops rest for about 15–20 minutes before cooking. This helps the coating stick. Also, be sure to place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket so that they aren’t laying on top of each other or touching too close.

More Pork Recipes

• Easy Baked Pork Chops and Cabbage
• Crock-Pot BBQ Pork Chops with Vegetables
• Crock-pot Pork Chops with Mushroom Gravy
• Sweet & Savory Pork Chops
• Bacon Cheddar Pork Chops