Crispy Juicy Air Fryer Pork Chops (High Protein, Low-Carb Dinner)

Nothing beats the satisfaction of sinking your teeth into tender, juicy pork chops coated with a golden, savory spice crust. This simple air fryer recipe

Equipment

• Air Fryer: Circulates rapid super-heated air to achieve a golden, seared crust with minimal oil.
• Instant-Read Digital Thermometer: Ensures pork reaches an exact, juicy internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) without overcooking.
• Silicone-Tipped Tongs: Flips the chops cleanly midway through without piercing the meat and losing internal juices.
• Small Prep Bowl: Blends the dry spices uniformly so every bite receives equal flavor distribution.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless pork loin chops, approximately 170g (6 oz) each, cut 2.5 cm (1 inch) thick (Note: Choose chops with even thickness for uniform cooking)
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 tsp (3 g) smoked paprika
• 1 tsp (3 g) garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp (1.5 g) onion powder
• 1/2 tsp (1 g) dried Italian herb seasoning
• 1/2 tsp (3 g) fine sea salt
• 1/4 tsp (0.5 g) freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 3 minutes. Pat the pork chops thoroughly dry on all sides using paper towels to ensure a crisp, golden crust.
2. Season the Meat: Rub olive oil evenly over both chops. In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, sea salt, and black pepper, then press the rub firmly onto all sides of the chops.
3. Air Fry First Side: Place the chops in a single layer inside the preheated air fryer basket, leaving space between them for continuous airflow. Cook at 200°C (400°F) for 6 minutes.
4. Flip and Finish: Turn the chops over using silicone tongs. Air fry for an additional 4 to 6 minutes, checking for an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) at the thickest section with an instant-read thermometer.
5. Rest and Serve: Transfer the pork chops to a warm cutting board and tent loosely with foil for 3 to 5 minutes to let the juices redistribute evenly before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 285 kcal · Protein: 39 g · Fat: s: 13 g Cholesterol: 95 mg · Carbohydrates: 1 g · Fiber: 0.4 g · Sugar: 0.2 g · Sodium: 640 mg