Crispy Mayo-Crusted Air Fryer Pork Chops.

Ingredients

The Pork Chops

• 4 boneless or bone-in pork chops (approx. 1 inch thick, about 6–8 oz each)

The Mayo Mayo-Binder Layer

• 1/2 cup real mayonnaise (full-fat works best for flavor and searing)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

The Crispy Crust

• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Pork Chops

1. Take the pork chops out of the refrigerator 15–20 minutes before cooking to allow them to come closer to room temperature. This ensures even cooking throughout.
2. Pat the pork chops completely dry with paper towels. Removing surface moisture is crucial for achieving a crispy coating.

Step 2: Prepare the Mayo Coating & Panko Mix

1. In a small bowl , combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
2. In a wide, shallow dish , combine Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and Italian seasoning. Stir thoroughly.

Step 3: Coat the Pork Chops

1. Using a brush or spatula, coat each pork chop evenly on all sides with a generous layer of the mayo mixture.
2. Transfer each coated pork chop into the Panko dish. Press down gently on both sides and edges so the breadcrumbs adhere firmly.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 3 to 5 minutes . Preheating ensures the air fryer is hot enough to immediately set the coating and seal in moisture.

Step 5: Air Fry at High Convection Intensity

1. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray or brush with a tiny bit of oil.
2. Place the pork chops into the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. (Work in batches if your air fryer is smaller).
3. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 6 to 7 minutes .
4. Open the basket and carefully flip each pork chop using tongs.
5. Cook for another 5 to 7 minutes , until the outer breading turns golden brown and crunchy.
6. Check internal temperature using an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chop. The thermometer should register 145°F (63°C) .

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Remove pork chops from the air fryer and transfer them to a wire rack or cutting board.
2. Allow them to rest for 5 minutes . Resting redistributes internal juices throughout the meat for optimum tenderness.
3. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crispy!

Nutrition

Calories: 480 kcal — · Protein: 42 g 84% · Fat: 26 g 33% · Carbohydrates: 18 g 7% – Dietary · Saturated Fat: 6 g 30% – Trans · Fiber: 1.5 g 5% – · Sugar: 1 g — · Sodium: 680 mg 30%