Add Preferred SourceThere was a time when pork chops in my kitchen meant dragging out a heavy skillet and bracing for grease splatters on the stove. Then the air fryer came along and completely changed the way I cook weeknight dinners. These pork chops have become one of those back pocket recipes I turn to again and again.
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I love them because they feel a little special, even though they take barely any effort. A quick seasoning rub, a few minutes in the air fryer, and dinner is on the table before anyone has time to ask what’s taking so long.
Sunday Supper for Any Night
Southern food’s always been a big part of my life. I can still remember those Sunday dinners at my grandma’s, with fried chicken, collard greens, and pork chops filling the table. Cooking Air Fryer Pork Chops is my way of keeping those traditions alive, blending old family favorites with a modern approach. It’s a simple way to enjoy those classic flavors any night of the week.
Ingredients
How to make Air Fryer Pork Chops
Start by mixing together salt, dried sage, garlic powder, brown sugar, black pepper, and oil in a small bowl. Use an adjustable measuring cup to measure the oil and any other liquid ingredients.
Next, rub the marinade all over both sides of the pork chops, making sure they're evenly coated. Let the pork chops sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in.
While the pork chops are marinating, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Once it’s ready, place the pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Use a silicone spoonula to gently move the pork chops around and make sure they’re spaced out, ensuring even cooking.
Cook the pork chops for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and fully cooked. If you want to double-check, you can use an instant-read thermometer to make sure they’re at 145°F. Once done, let them rest for a few minutes so the juices can redistribute. This step is key to keeping the pork chops juicy and tender.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked Air Fryer Pork Chops, ready to be served!
Serving suggestions
Air Fryer Pork Chops are best served with classic Southern sides to complete the meal. Pair them with creamy Southern Mash, Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans, or cornbread for an authentic experience. You could also serve them alongside a Crunchy Green Bean Salad for a lighter option. Don’t forget a drizzle of gravy or a dollop of homemade apple chutney for that extra touch of Southern hospitality.
Storage tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes to bring back the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chops rubbery.
You can also freeze cooked pork chops for up to two months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Southern farewell
Air Fryer Pork Chops are a true testament to how simple ingredients and a little Southern know-how can create something extraordinary. This recipe brings me joy every time I make it, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your kitchen too. There’s nothing like sharing a delicious meal that’s steeped in tradition, so give it a try and let the comforting flavors of the South fill your home.
Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 2 bone-in pork chops
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1.5 tablespoons oil
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the salt, dried sage, garlic powder, brown sugar, black pepper, and oil. Stir until the ingredients are well combined.
- Rub the marinade mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops. Make sure every inch is coated. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Set your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and a crispy texture.
- Place the marinated pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they’re not overlapping to allow even cooking.
- Cook the pork chops at 380°F (190°C) for 10 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure both sides are golden brown and evenly cooked.
- Once done, carefully remove the pork chops from the air fryer. Let them rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat tender.
- Serve the pork chops warm with your favorite Southern sides. Enjoy the juicy, flavorful bites that celebrate the essence of Southern cooking.
Notes
- Use boneless pork chops if preferred.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more garlic or herbs if desired.
Nutrition
A Note on Nutritional Information
Nutritional information for this recipe is provided as a courtesy and is calculated based on available online ingredient information. It is only an approximate value. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site cannot be guaranteed.
