I love a good weeknight dinner that feels fancy without all the fuss. Pork chops have always been one of my favorite proteins because they’re hearty, versatile, and cook quickly. Lately, I’ve been obsessed with the air fryer—it gives the pork chops a beautiful golden crust while keeping them juicy on the inside. Pair that with a creamy, tangy mustard sauce, and suddenly a simple dinner feels like a treat you’d order at a restaurant.
Cooking is my way of experimenting and playing with flavors, and this recipe combines two of my favorite techniques: crisping in the air fryer and creating a luscious pan sauce. The mustard cream sauce is velvety with a gentle kick, elevating the pork chops to something truly special. Trust me, once you try it, this will become your go-to comfort meal for busy nights or cozy weekends.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Pork Chops: Choose bone-in or boneless pork chops about 1 inch thick. They cook evenly in the air fryer and develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. Look for chops with a bit of marbling, as that helps keep them juicy.
Olive Oil: A light coating of olive oil ensures the pork chops crisp up nicely in the air fryer without sticking. It also adds a subtle richness that enhances the overall flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings like salt and pepper are essential. They bring out the natural flavors of the pork and make every bite savory and satisfying.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder gives a gentle depth of flavor without overwhelming the dish. It complements the mustard in the sauce perfectly.
Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard is the star of the cream sauce. Its tanginess pairs wonderfully with the richness of the cream and the pork’s savory taste.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives the sauce a velvety texture and balances the sharpness of the mustard. Use fresh cream for the best consistency.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds a savory base for the sauce, enhancing its flavor and helping to create a smooth consistency.
Butter: Butter enriches the sauce, giving it a silky finish and a touch of indulgence that makes this dish irresistible.
Ingredients List
- 4 pork chops, bone-in or boneless, about 1 inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
How to Make Air Fryer Pork Chops with Mustard Cream Sauce
Prepare the Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel. Rub both sides with olive oil, then season evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dry chops help achieve a crisp crust in the air fryer.
Air Fry the Pork Chops
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the pork chops in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t touch. Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Make the Mustard Cream Sauce
In a small skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add chicken broth and Dijon mustard, whisking to combine. Slowly stir in heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve
Plate the pork chops and generously spoon the mustard cream sauce over the top. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Always pat pork chops dry before cooking to ensure a crispy exterior.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
- Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain their juices.
- For extra flavor, marinate the pork chops for 30 minutes in olive oil, garlic, and a touch of mustard before cooking.
- Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more cream or broth depending on your preference.
FAQs
Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chops work perfectly; just reduce cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce in advance, but it’s best served warm and freshly made for the creamiest texture.
What sides go well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or a fresh salad complement the pork chops and mustard cream sauce beautifully.
Can I use another type of mustard?
Dijon mustard gives the best balance of tang and flavor, but whole-grain mustard can add texture and a slightly different flavor profile.