Frozen Pork Chops in the Air Fryer are so easy to make and turn out tender and delicious every time! Skip the thawing and enjoy perfectly cooked pork chops in just 30 minutes — easy, crispy, and hassle-free!
Frozen Pork Chops in the Air Fryer
The other day, I completely forgot to take the pork chops out of the freezer. If you’ve ever been there, you know that moment of panic! But don’t worry, I’ll show you how to air fry frozen pork chops so you can still get a delicious meal on the table in no time. Cooking frozen pork chops in the air fryer is quick, easy, and perfect for busy nights.
These pork chops come out juicy, tender, and packed with flavor — you’d never guess they started out frozen! Pair them with Instant Pot Mexican Rice or Air Fryer Baked Potatoes, and you’ve got a full dinner ready in just 30 minutes.
This is one of the easiest air fryer frozen pork chops recipes out there. Just season, air fry, and enjoy a perfectly cooked pork chop with minimal effort!
If you love Air Fryer Pork as much as I do, try my AIR FRYER PORK STEAK, AIR FRYER PORK MEDALLIONS, AIR FRYER FROZEN PORK BELLY, AIR FRYER PORK TENDERLOIN or my AIR FRYER PORK SHU MAI.
Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Frozen Pork Chops
- No thawing required!
- So easy to make
- Full of flavor
- Juicy and tender
- Works with boneless or bone-in chops
- Perfect for busy nights or last-minute dinners
- Ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients Needed to Air Fry Frozen Pork Chops
My air fryer frozen pork chops recipe is as simple as it gets — just a few seasonings and, of course, pork chops! You probably have everything on hand, but if not, check the list below before you go shopping.
For complete ingredients and quantities, as well as nutritional information, keep scrolling until you reach the bottom, where you will find a printable recipe card.
- Frozen Pork Chops: The main ingredient! Choose bone-in or boneless pork chops, for a tender, juicy meal.
- Brown Sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness and helps create a delicious caramelized crust as the pork chops cook.
- Chili Powder: Brings a mild heat, balancing out the sweetness of the brown sugar.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a rich, smoky flavor that gives the pork a deep, savory taste.
- Ground Cumin: Brings earthy, warm undertones that balance out the sweetness, creating a flavor that’s bold but not overpowering.
- Garlic Powder: A classic seasoning that enhances the overall flavor of the pork.
- Onion Powder: Brings a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the other seasonings.
- Dried Thyme: A fragrant herb that adds a touch of earthiness.
- Oregano: Adds a slightly peppery flavor that pairs well with pork.
- Ground Mustard: Balances the flavors with its tanginess, adding a mild sharpness that complements the other seasonings.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Enhance the pork’s natural flavors.
How To Make Air Fryer Pork Chops
Air frying pork chops is super easy! Below, you’ll find my step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process, including how long to cook frozen pork chops in the air fryer for perfect results.
Step 1: Defrost the pork chops
Place the frozen pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Set the temperature to 380 degrees F and cook for 5-8 minutes, or until the pork chops are defrosted and slightly tender.
Step 2: Season
While the pork chops are defrosting, mix all the dry rub ingredients in a small bowl.
Coat the chops with a light layer of olive oil, then generously rub the seasoning mix all over.
Step 3: Air fry
Place the seasoned pork chops back into the air fryer basket. Cook at 380 degrees F for 12-16 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F (use an instant-read thermometer to check).
Step 4: Rest
Remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This ensures they stay juicy and tender!
Air Fryer Frozen Pork Chops Pro Tips
- Marinate: For even more flavor, marinate the chops before freezing. When you’re ready to cook, simply pop them straight into the air fryer — no need to add extra seasoning!
- Avoid Crowding: For the best results when you air fry pork chops, make sure they’re in a single layer with some space between each chop. This allows the hot air to circulate properly and cook them evenly.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Since air fryers can vary and the thickness of the pork chops affects cooking time, the best way to know how long to cook frozen pork chops in the air fryer is by checking the internal temperature. When it reaches 145 degrees F at the thickest part, you can safely remove them from the air fryer.
Frozen Pork Chops in the Air Fryer FAQs
You can use frozen boneless or bone-in pork chops, or even fresh (thawed) chops. Boneless are easier to cook and eat, while bone-in tend to have more flavor. Thicker chops will take longer to cook. If you’re using bone-in pork chops, it’s best to cook them at a slightly lower temperature for even heat and juicier results.
Not at all! While the dry rub is a great choice, you can season your frozen pork chops however you like. Experiment with different spices or bread them with breadcrumbs and Parmesan for a crispy crust. Just be sure to season both sides well before cooking!
To ensure your pork chops cook evenly, place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping. Flipping them halfway through the cooking time also helps both sides cook evenly.
To keep your pork chops juicy, lightly coat them with oil or cooking spray before air frying.
Yes, but make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. For best results, place the pork chops in a single layer with enough space around them for the air to circulate. If you’re cooking multiple chops, it’s best to do them in batches.
Great sides to pair with your pork chops include broccoli, rice, and green beans. Rice is super versatile and can be flavored in different ways, like with Spanish or Cajun seasonings. Broccoli adds a colorful, savory touch, while green beans bring a fresh, crunchy contrast.
Yes, you can! To reheat leftover pork chops, place them in the air fryer at 350 degrees F for about 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through.
More Air Fryer Recipes
- AIR FRYER CHILI LIME PORK CHOPS
- AIR FRYER FLANK STEAK
- AIR FRYER MEATLOAF
- AIR FRYER CHICKEN STUFFED WITH ARTICHOKE DIP
- ITALIAN PORK CHOPS IN THE AIR FRYER
- STUFFED PORK CHOPS IN THE AIR FRYER
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How to Make Frozen Pork Chops in Air Fryer
Description
Ingredients
- 4-6 frozen pork chops
Dry Rub:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Place the frozen pork chops in a single layer, and set the temperature to 380 degrees F, cook for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the pork chops are defrosted.
- In a small bowl, add all of the dry rub ingredients, and then rub olive oil over the pork chops, and then rub the pork chops with the seasoning mix.
- Return the seasoned pork chops to the air fryer basket, and cook for 12 to 16 minutes at 380 degrees F, remove the pork chops when the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees f when checked with an instant read thermometer.
- Remove and let sit for 3-5 minutes, before serving.
Equipment
- Cooking Spray
- Parchment Paper, optional
Nutrition
Share this recipe
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Karen
Any suggestions on what you would marinate the pork chops in
manoj
This worked great! I adjusted the time as I had thick bone-in pork chops. I cooked them for 19 min. great! So easy! Will make again. Thank you!