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Air Fryer Boneless Pork Chops

Juicy boneless pork chops cooked in the air fryer at 375°F with a simple smoky spice rub, delivering a properly seared exterior and moist interior in under 25 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless pork chops, approximately 1 inch thick (68 oz each)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp dried thyme (optional)

Instructions

  1. Remove chops from the refrigerator 10–15 minutes before cooking. Pat completely dry with paper towels. Rub each chop with olive oil on both sides, then press the spice blend evenly over all surfaces.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes until fully heated.
  3. Place chops in the basket in a single layer without overlapping, leaving at least ½ inch between each chop for full air circulation. Work in batches if needed.
  4. Cook at 375°F for 5–7 minutes, flip each chop, then cook for another 5–7 minutes. Total cook time for 1-inch thick chops is 10–14 minutes.
  5. Check internal temperature at the 10-minute mark — the USDA minimum for whole pork cuts is 145°F (63°C). Rest chops for 3–5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat the chops completely dry before seasoning — surface moisture creates steam in the air fryer, which prevents browning and crisping.

For chops under ¾ inch thick, reduce temperature to 360°F and check internal temperature at the 8-minute mark to avoid overcooking.

Thick-cut chops (1¼ inches or more) may need 14–16 minutes. A 2-minute mid-cook rest can help equalize heat for very thick cuts.

Avocado oil can replace olive oil for a higher smoke point (520°F vs ~375–405°F), useful if your air fryer runs hot.

Do not skip the rest — 3–5 minutes off heat allows juices to redistribute and preserves the moisture created by cooking to the correct temperature.