If you’re anything like me, there’s nothing quite like the smell of garlic filling the kitchen, especially when it’s paired with juicy, tender pork chops cooked to perfection. I’ve always loved how air frying can make meat crispy on the outside while keeping it incredibly juicy inside—and this garlic pork chop recipe is one of my go-to meals when I want something quick but seriously satisfying. It’s easy to prepare, cooks fast, and the flavors? Absolutely fantastic.
Plus, using the air fryer means less oil, less mess, and way less time hovering over the stove. I promise this recipe will become a staple in your weekly rotation. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, these garlic pork chops are guaranteed to impress without the fuss.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Pork chops: Choosing the right pork chops is key for juicy, tender results. I like to use bone-in chops around 1-inch thick because they retain moisture better and develop a lovely flavor. If you prefer boneless, that works too, just watch the cooking time to avoid drying out.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the heart of this recipe. Minced garlic brings a punch of flavor and aroma that you can’t beat. Avoid pre-minced jar garlic here; fresh cloves make all the difference in brightness and depth.
Olive oil: A light coating of olive oil helps the garlic and spices stick to the pork chops while also encouraging a crisp, golden exterior in the air fryer. Plus, olive oil adds a subtle fruity note that complements the meat perfectly.
Salt and black pepper: Basic but essential, salt enhances the natural flavors of the pork while black pepper adds a gentle kick. Be generous but balanced, since these are the foundational seasonings.
Paprika: Paprika not only adds a beautiful warm color but also a subtle smoky sweetness that elevates the pork chops without overpowering the garlic.
Dried herbs (optional): A pinch of dried thyme or rosemary adds an herby aroma that pairs beautifully with pork. This is optional but highly recommended if you want a slightly more complex flavor profile.
Ingredients list
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Pork Chops
Step 1: Prepare the pork chops
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps them crisp up nicely in the air fryer. Then, brush both sides evenly with olive oil.
Step 2: Season the pork chops
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and dried herbs if using. Rub this mixture all over the pork chops, making sure each chop is well coated with the garlicky seasoning.
Step 3: Preheat the air fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the pork chops start cooking immediately and get that perfect sear.
Step 4: Cook the pork chops
Place the seasoned pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the outside is golden and crisp.
Step 5: Rest and serve
Remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chops juicy and tender. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness — pork is safe at 145°F and this ensures juiciness without overcooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary for even cooking and crispiness.
- For extra flavor, marinate the pork chops with the garlic mixture for 30 minutes to 2 hours before cooking.
- Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a brighter herbal note.
- If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Letting the pork chops rest after cooking is crucial — don’t skip this step!
FAQs
Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, boneless pork chops work fine but may cook a little faster, so watch them closely to avoid drying out.
How do I know when the pork chops are done?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The pork should be slightly pink inside and juicy.
Can I prepare this recipe without an air fryer?
You can cook the pork chops in a skillet or oven, but the texture will be slightly different. The air fryer gives that perfect crispy edge with less oil.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can marinate the pork chops in the garlic mixture up to 2 hours ahead, but it’s best to cook them fresh for optimal texture and flavor.
What sides go well with garlic pork chops?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a simple salad are great companions to balance the rich flavors.