Air Fryer Thin Pork Chops are the perfect quick-fix dinner—crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and ready in less than 20 minutes. They’re flavorful without being heavy, and the air fryer gives them that irresistible golden crust with minimal oil. It’s a weeknight favorite that feels indulgent but couldn’t be easier to make.
What makes these pork chops so great is their simplicity. A quick seasoning rub and a few minutes in the air fryer is all you need for perfectly cooked meat that locks in moisture and flavor. Because they’re thin, they cook in no time, so dinner can be on the table before you know it.
Serve these chops with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They also pair beautifully with applesauce or a squeeze of lemon for a little extra brightness. This recipe is a go-to for busy nights when you want real flavor without the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Here’s what makes this air fryer recipe both easy and flavorful — and how you can adjust it for your taste or pantry staples.
Thin Pork Chops: The star of the dish! Choose boneless chops about ½ inch thick so they cook evenly and stay juicy. Thicker cuts can work too — just increase the cooking time slightly.
Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning stick and gives the outside a crisp finish. Avocado oil or canola oil are great substitutes for high-heat cooking.
Garlic & Onion Powder: Add savory depth without overpowering the natural pork flavor. You can use minced fresh garlic if preferred, but keep it light to avoid burning.
Smoked Paprika: Adds color and subtle smokiness. Regular paprika works fine if that’s what you have.
Herbs: Dried thyme or rosemary complement the pork beautifully. Feel free to swap for oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for balance — season generously for the best flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer — cooks the pork chops evenly and gives them a crispy exterior.
- Meat thermometer — ensures your chops reach 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.
- Small mixing bowl — for blending your spice rub.
- Brush or spoon — to apply olive oil evenly on both sides.
- Tongs — for flipping the chops halfway through cooking safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Marinate the pork chops in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for an Asian-inspired twist.
- Top with a squeeze of lemon or lime juice for brightness before serving.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan or herbs like parsley for a gourmet touch.
- Brush with a thin layer of BBQ sauce during the last minute for a smoky-sweet glaze.
How to Make Air Fryer Thin Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 thin pork chops (about ½ inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time: 5 minutes. Cooking time: 8–10 minutes. Resting time: 3–5 minutes. Total time: around 15–20 minutes — ideal for busy weeknights.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures the chops start cooking immediately and helps create that crispy sear.
2. Season the Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Brush both sides of the pork chops with olive oil, then rub the seasoning mixture evenly on all sides.
3. Air Fry Until Crispy
Place the pork chops in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Cook for 8–10 minutes at 400°F, flipping halfway through. The chops are done when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the outside is golden and crisp.
4. Rest and Serve
Let the chops rest for 3–5 minutes before serving — this helps the juices redistribute for tender, juicy meat. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with your favorite sides.
Pro Tips for Best Texture & Taste
Here’s how to make sure your pork chops turn out perfect every single time.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket — air needs to circulate for even crisping.
- Use a thermometer to avoid overcooking. Pork is best at 145°F with a slight blush inside.
- Let the meat rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Lightly spray the basket with oil if food tends to stick.
- Flip halfway through cooking for a golden crust on both sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen pork chops?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Cooking from frozen can lead to uneven results and dryness.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No problem. Cook the pork chops in a skillet with a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Can I adjust the seasoning?
Definitely! This recipe is flexible. Add more paprika for color, a touch of cayenne for spice, or even a hint of brown sugar for a sweet balance.