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Perfect Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops: Easy No Breading Recipe

air fryer pork chops no breading - featured image

These air fryer pork chops are quick, easy, and deliver a satisfying crunch without the guilt of deep frying. No breading needed, just a simple dry rub for a naturally gluten-free and low-carb meal ready in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops completely dry with paper towels. Let them sit on a paper towel-lined plate for 5 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  3. Sprinkle the rub evenly over both sides of each chop and pat gently to adhere. Let rest at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Lightly spray both sides of each pork chop with olive oil spray.
  6. Place the pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving at least 1/2 inch between each chop. Do not overcrowd.
  7. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8 minutes without opening the basket.
  8. Flip the chops using tongs, spray the tops lightly with more oil, and cook for another 4-6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  9. Remove from the air fryer and let rest on a clean plate for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat the pork chops completely dry for maximum crispiness. Do not skip preheating the air fryer. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; pull chops at 140°F (60°C) for carryover cooking to 145°F (63°C). Let the meat rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking for even cooking. Spray oil, do not brush, to avoid disturbing the rub.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer pork chops, no breading pork chops, crispy pork chops, gluten-free pork chops, low-carb pork chops, quick pork chops