Air Fryer Golden Crusted Pork Chops

October 20, 2025 Kate @Food For Your Good Main Dishes 0




Air Fryer Golden Crusted Pork Chops on a white marble tray, one sliced to show juicy tender meat, with fresh parsley and a blurred air fryer in the background.
Perfectly seasoned and air-fried to golden perfection, these Air Fryer Golden Crusted Pork Chops are crisp outside, juicy inside, and ready in minutes.
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Air Fryer Golden Crusted Pork Chops are your new go-to for a restaurant-quality dinner made right at home. These perfectly seasoned pork chops are air-fried to golden perfection — juicy inside and crisp outside. With smoky paprika, garlic, thyme, and a touch of Parmesan, every bite delivers rich, savory depth.

The air fryer locks in juices while forming a golden crust that rivals pan-seared versions — but with less oil and cleanup. The result is quick, effortless, and absolutely delicious. It feels special enough for guests yet simple enough for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Pork chops have been a classic family favorite since the 1950s. This modern twist brings them back to life — lighter, faster, and more flavorful than ever. Pair them with roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal.

Air Fryer Golden Crusted Pork Chops on a white marble tray, one sliced to show juicy tender meat, with fresh parsley and a blurred air fryer in the background.
Perfectly seasoned and air-fried to golden perfection, these Air Fryer Golden Crusted Pork Chops are crisp outside, juicy inside, and ready in minutes.

Recipe Yield: 4 servings

INGREDIENTS

4 boneless pork chops, about 1 in thick
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp ground mustard
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for mild heat)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prep the chops:
Pat pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures the seasoning sticks and creates a crispy crust.

2. Season the pork:
In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, ground mustard, salt, black pepper, cayenne, and Parmesan. Brush pork chops lightly with olive oil, then coat evenly with the seasoning mixture on both sides.

3. Preheat the air fryer:
Set air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 3 minutes. Preheating helps lock in moisture and builds that perfect crust.

4. Air fry the pork chops:
Place chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

5. Rest and serve:
Transfer to a plate and let rest for 3–5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute. Serve warm with roasted vegetables or a crisp salad.

HELPFUL TIPS TO PERFECT THIS RECIPE

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Airflow is key. Leave space between pork chops so hot air can circulate and crisp every edge evenly.
  • Preheat for Better Texture: Preheating the air fryer gives an instant sear and locks in juices before the pork even starts cooking.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked, tender pork, remove from the air fryer right at 145°F — the center should be slightly pink and juicy.