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Crispy & Juicy Air Fryer Pork Chops – Ready in 20 Minutes! 🍽️

Are you on the lookout for a quick, hassle-free meal that doesn’t compromise on flavour or texture? Look no further than these crispy and juicy air fryer pork chops! In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a delicious dinner that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection, these pork chops offer a delightful crunch on the outside and tender juiciness on the inside—all without the fuss of traditional frying.

Why Use an Air Fryer?

Air fryers have revolutionised the way we cook, allowing us to enjoy our favourite crispy foods with significantly less oil. They work by circulating hot air around the food, giving it that golden-brown crispiness that we often associate with deep-fried dishes. Plus, using an air fryer can reduce cooking time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To get started, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 2.5 cm thick)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika, based on preference)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for garnish

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

1. Trim and Dry: Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial as it helps achieve that delightful crispy texture.
2. Season: In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the olive oil all over the pork chops, then sprinkle the spice mixture on both sides, ensuring even coverage.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 200°C (about 400°F) and allow it to preheat for approximately 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the air fryer reaches the perfect temperature for crisping up the pork chops.

Step 3: Cook the Pork Chops

1. Arrange in the Basket: Place the seasoned pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Air Fry: Cook the pork chops for about 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The internal temperature should reach 63°C (145°F) for perfect juiciness.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Once the pork chops are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is as juicy as can be. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve alongside your favourite sides—think fluffy mashed potatoes, vibrant roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Pork Chops

• Choose the Right Cut: Bone-in chops tend to retain moisture better, but boneless chops will cook through faster. Choose what suits your taste best!
• Thickness Matters: Aim for chops that are around 2.5 cm thick. Thinner cuts may require less cooking time, while thicker ones may need a couple of additional minutes.
• Don’t Skip the Oil: A light coating of oil helps achieve that crispy exterior while preventing the meat from drying out.

Conclusion

Enjoying crispy and juicy air fryer pork chops is easier than ever with this simple recipe! In just 20 minutes, you can create a dish that satisfies your cravings while keeping your cooking hassle-free. So next time you’re in need of a quick yet delightful meal, remember this recipe is just a few steps away. Bon appétit! 🍽️