Easy Air Fryer Blackened Pork Chops

These Easy Air Fryer Blackened Pork Chops are juicy, tender, and coated in a perfectly spicy, smoky crust. Ready in minutes, they make a bold and flavorful weeknight dinner that pairs well with rice, veggies, or a fresh salad.

If you love bold, smoky flavors without spending hours in the kitchen, these Easy Air Fryer Blackened Pork Chops are for you. Coated in a spicy, aromatic blend of seasonings, they develop a crispy, flavorful crust while staying juicy on the inside.

Quick to make and packed with flavor, this recipe turns ordinary pork chops into a show-stopping dinner that’s perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Bold, smoky seasoning gives pork chops restaurant-quality flavor.
• Crispy blackened crust without frying in oil.
• Juicy, tender pork chops cooked quickly in the air fryer.
• Minimal prep and cleanup make weeknight dinners easy.
• Pairs perfectly with rice, roasted vegetables, or fresh salads.

Ingredients Needed

• Pork Chops: Juicy, tender pork chops perfect for air frying.
• Paprika: Smoky and slightly sweet spice for flavorful crust.
• Garlic Powder: Aromatic garlic flavor that enhances savory pork taste.
• Onion Powder: Adds mild, sweet onion flavor to seasonings.
• Dried Thyme: Earthy herb with subtle floral and lemon notes.
• Ground Black Pepper: Spicy, pungent seasoning to enhance overall flavor.
• Cayenne Pepper: Adds heat and bold kick to the dish.
• Dried Basil: Sweet, fragrant herb with subtle peppery undertones.
• Dried Oregano: Robust herb with slightly bitter, aromatic flavor.

How To Make Easy Air Fryer Blackened Pork Chops

Step 1: Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel. In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried basil, and dried oregano. Mix well to create a flavorful spice blend.

Step 2: Rub both sides of each pork chop generously with the blackening seasoning. Press the spices into the meat so they adhere evenly.

Step 3: Set your air fryer temperature to 400 degrees F (200°C) and preheat for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Place the seasoned pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Set cook time for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for 3–5 minutes.

Easy Air Fryer Blackened Pork Chops Recipe Tips

• Use bone-in pork chops for extra juiciness and flavor.
• Pat chops dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy blackened crust.
• Press spices firmly into the meat to help them adhere.
• Preheat your air fryer for even cooking.
• Flip halfway through cooking for uniform crust and color.
• Let chops rest 3–5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
• Pair with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
• Adjust cayenne pepper to control spice level for your preference.

Other Cooking Methods

• Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place seasoned pork chops on a baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil. Sear seasoned pork chops for 4–5 minutes per side until blackened and cooked through.
• Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Cook pork chops for 5–7 minutes per side, turning once, until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F and develop a smoky char.
• Instant Pot/Pressure Cooker: Use the sauté function to brown seasoned pork chops for 2–3 minutes per side. Then add ½ cup broth, seal, and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, followed by a quick release.

Storing Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store cooked pork chops in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap each chop tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes until warmed through to maintain crispiness. Microwave or oven reheating is possible, but air fryer gives best texture.

Easy Air Fryer Blackened Pork Chops Recipe Faqs

Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in? Yes, boneless pork chops work perfectly. They may cook slightly faster, so monitor the internal temperature.

How spicy are these blackened pork chops? The spice level comes from cayenne pepper. Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.

Can I make this recipe without an air fryer? Absolutely! You can cook the pork chops in the oven, on the stovetop, or on the grill. Each method produces slightly different results but still flavorful.

What sides go well with blackened pork chops? Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I know when the pork chops are done? Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Let rest a few minutes before slicing.

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