Print

Easy Air Fryer Pork Chops with Garlic Herb Rub

air fryer pork chops - featured image

Juicy, golden-brown air fryer pork chops with a savory garlic herb rub that come together in under 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this foolproof recipe turns skeptical pork chop haters into believers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This is crucial for a good crust.
  2. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Add brown sugar if using.
  3. Drizzle olive oil over the pork chops and rub it all over both sides. Sprinkle the rub evenly over all sides and massage it into the meat.
  4. Let the seasoned pork chops sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  6. Place the pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching.
  7. Air fry at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check internal temperature at 8 minutes; target is 145°F (63°C).
  8. Transfer the pork chops to a cutting board and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For thicker chops (over 1 inch), add 2-3 minutes cooking time. For thinner chops, check at 6 minutes. Do not skip patting dry or resting steps. The rub can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer pork chops, garlic herb rub, easy pork chops, weeknight dinner, gluten-free, keto-friendly