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Air Fryer Stuffed Pork Chops

Author: Laurie Fleming
Published: November 19, 2021

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Air Fryer Stuffed Pork Chops — Welcome to a delicious journey where we transform ordinary pork chops into a culinary masterpiece!

Today, we will stuff and cook these succulent cuts to perfection using an air fryer, ensuring a mouth-watering combination of flavor and texture that’s both healthy and indulgent.

This Stuffed Pork Chops in Air Fryer recipe will become your new favorite meal! Bursting with stuffing, it’s both flavorful and wholesome. Air fryer stuffed pork chops take about 25 minutes to cook! Perfect for weeknight dinner or an easy Sunday lunch.

What Are Stuffed Pork Chops

Stuffed pork chops are a sumptuous dish where thick cuts of pork chops are sliced to create a pocket, filling with various ingredients like herbs, breadcrumbs, cheeses, vegetables, or fruits and nuts. This stuffing adds flavor and moisture to the pork chops, typically baked, grilled, or air-fried, to achieve a tender and juicy perfection with a deliciously seasoned exterior.

I’ve been trying to find a way to create an easy and delicious meal that is both healthy and quick. This recipe has been one of my favorite creations because it tastes fantastic while being relatively simple to prepare.

Tender, juicy pork chops are stuffed with a simple stuffing mix and seasoned with simple spices. A quick meal that can be served any night of the week, these stuffed pork chops in an air fryer are so good they’ll soon become one of your family’s favorites.

Looking for more Air Fryer Pork Chops recipes? Try my AIR FRYER RANCH PORK CHOPS, AIR FRYER KETO PORK CHOPS, AIR FRYER CHILE LIME PORK CHOPS, and AIR FRYER ITALIAN PORK CHOPS!

Check Out Our New Air Fryer Recipe And Video:

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

This recipe for air fryer stuffed pork chops is likely to be loved for several reasons:

Healthier Cooking Method: Air frying is a popular cooking method requiring less oil than traditional frying, making it a healthier option. This means you can enjoy a delicious stuffed pork chop without guilt about the oil content.
Flavorful and Juicy: The air fryer is excellent at maintaining the juiciness and flavor of meats, including pork chops. When stuffed, these pork chops are juicy and packed with stuffing flavors, which could include ingredients like herbs, breadcrumbs, cheese, or vegetables.
Convenience and Speed: Air fryers are known for their convenience and speed. They preheat quickly and cook food faster than conventional ovens. This means you can quickly prepare your stuffed pork chops, which is great for busy days.
Crispy Texture: One of the appealing aspects of using an air fryer is the crispy texture it gives to the food. The outside of the pork chops gets a lovely crispness, which contrasts nicely with the tender meat and soft stuffing inside.
Versatility in Stuffing Options: This recipe can easily adapt to various tastes and preferences. You can change the stuffing to include different ingredients, catering to dietary restrictions or personal flavor preferences.
Easy to Clean: Air fryers are generally easy to clean, which makes the post-cooking process more convenient. This is especially beneficial after cooking something like stuffed pork chops, which might otherwise be messy in a traditional frying method.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, stuffed pork chops cooked in an air fryer can be a great choice. They offer a balance of gourmet feel and home-cooked comfort.

Remember, the key to a great air fryer stuffed pork chop lies in the quality of the pork, the flavor combination of the stuffing, and the correct air frying temperature and time to ensure it’s cooked through yet remains juicy and flavorful.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Stuffed Pork Chops

Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these irresistible Air Fryer Stuffed Pork Chops! This recipe calls for a blend of savory ingredients that promise to infuse your pork chops with mouth-watering flavors and textures, perfect for a delectable and easy-to-prepare meal.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

Pork Chops: Thick, boneless pork chops are the star of this dish, providing a juicy, tender canvas for the rich flavors of the stuffing and seasoning.
Prepared Stuffing: Opt for your favorite prepared stuffing mix, which adds a delightful texture and a harmonious blend of herbs and spices to complement the pork.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps achieve that perfect golden-brown finish and enhances the overall moistness and flavor of the pork chops.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder infuses a subtle, aromatic depth, elevating the savory profile of the dish.
Paprika: Paprika brings a gentle, smoky undertone and a hint of sweetness, adding both color and a layer of complexity to the flavor palette.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: Simple yet essential, salt and pepper are used to taste, fine-tuning the overall seasoning of the pork chops for a perfectly balanced flavor.
Fresh Parsley (optional for garnish): A garnish of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and imparts a fresh, herbaceous note to the dish.

How To Make Stuffed Pork Chops In Air Fryer

Making stuffed pork chops in an air fryer is a straightforward and delicious way to prepare a satisfying meal. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Preparation of Pork Chops: Begin by taking your thick, boneless pork chops and creating a pocket for the stuffing. Do this by making a horizontal cut, with a shape knife or sharp pairing knife, on the side of each pork chop, being careful not to cut all the way through.

Stuffing the Pork Chops: Prepare the stuffing mixture. Fill the pocket in each pork chop with your prepared stuffing. Be generous, but avoid overstuffing, as it may spill out during cooking. Press the edges of the pork chops together to hold the stuffing in place.

Seasoning: Mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Brush this mixture over both sides of the stuffed pork chops, ensuring they are well-coated. This will add flavor and help to achieve a crispy outer layer.

Preheating the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for cooking the pork chops evenly and getting a nice crust and a great sear.

Cooking the Pork Chops: Place the uncooked pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook them for about 10-15 minutes, flipping the stuffed pork chops halfway during the cooking process. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chops and your air fryer model.

Checking for Doneness: Pork chops are done when their internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the pork chop. They should be golden brown on the outside and the stuffing heated through.

Resting and Serving: Once cooked, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to be redistributed, ensuring the chops are juicy and flavorful. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Remember, air fryers can vary in their cooking times and temperatures. Hence, checking the pork chops a bit earlier than the total suggested cooking time is advisable, adjusting as necessary. Enjoy your delicious, easy-to-make air fryer stuffed pork chops!

Recipe Variations

Air Fryer Stuffed Pork Chops offer a versatile canvas for various recipe variations. Here are some delicious ideas to customize this dish:

Apple and Sage Stuffing: Enhance the stuffing with diced apples and fresh sage for a sweet and herby flavor. The apple adds a delightful freshness and complements the savory pork beautifully.
Cheese and Spinach Stuffing: Mix some chopped fresh spinach and your choice of cheese (like feta, goat cheese, or cheddar) into the stuffing for a creamy and nutritious twist.
Mushroom and Onion Stuffing: Sauté mushrooms and onions until they’re caramelized and stir them into the stuffing. This will add a rich and earthy depth to your pork chops.
Cornbread Stuffing: Substitute the regular bread stuffing with cornbread stuffing for a southern twist. It adds a unique texture and slightly sweet flavor.
Italian Style: Incorporate seasonings like basil, oregano, and thyme into your stuffing. Add some parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes for an Italian flair.
Spicy Cajun: Spice up your pork chops with Cajun seasoning in the stuffing and on the chops. This will give a nice kick and a burst of Southern flavors.
Bacon and Cheddar Stuffing: Add cooked, crumbled bacon and cheddar cheese to the stuffing for a heartier, meaty flavor profile.
Sweet and Savory: Mix in dried fruits like cranberries or apricots with a hint of cinnamon into the stuffing for a sweet and savory combination.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread or cornbread for the stuffing to cater to those with gluten sensitivities.
Herb and Garlic: Enhance your stuffing with fresh herbs like parsley, dill, chives, and extra garlic for a fragrant and flavorful twist.

Each variation adds a unique twist to the classic stuffed pork chop, making it adaptable to different tastes and occasions. Experiment with these ideas or create your own custom stuffing to make the dish uniquely yours!

Pro Tips

Creating the perfect Air Fryer Stuffed Pork Chops involves a few pro tips that can elevate your dish to the next level. Here are some expert suggestions to ensure your pork chops turn out delicious every time:

Choose the Right Cut: Select thick-cut, boneless pork chops for stuffing. The thickness ensures enough room for stuffing without the chops drying out during cooking.
Even Stuffing Distribution: When stuffing your pork chops, ensure the stuffing is evenly distributed. This prevents overstuffing, which can cause the stuffing to fall out during cooking, and ensures even cooking of the pork.
Secure the Opening: To keep the stuffing from falling out, you can use toothpicks to secure the opening of the pork chops. Just remember to remove them before serving!
Preheat Your Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer before cooking. This helps to cook the pork chops evenly and achieve a good sear on the outside.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the pork chops in a single layer without overcrowding the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results.
Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer ensures your pork chops are cooked through, not overdone. The ideal internal temperature for pork chops is 145°F (63°C).
Rest Before Serving: Allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in juicier chops.
Seasoning Matters: Don’t skimp on seasoning. A good rub or marinade can make a big difference in flavor. Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your favorite combination.
Spray the Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with oil to prevent sticking and achieve a crispier exterior.
Regular Flipping: Flip the pork chops halfway through the cooking process. This ensures they cook evenly and get a nice crust on both sides.

By following these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to making delicious, perfectly cooked Air Fryer Stuffed Pork Chops that will impress you!

Faq’s

How to create a pocket in pork chops for delicious stuffing: Choose thick-cut, boneless pork chops for best results. Thickness is important as it provides ample space for the stuffing. A sharp knife is crucial for precision and safety. A boning knife is ideal due to its thin, sharp blade, but a sharp chef’s knife also works well. Hold the pork chop with one hand, securing it on a cutting board. With your other hand, insert the knife into the fattier side of the chop. Gently push the paring knife into the center of the chop, slicing horizontally. Be careful not to cut all the way through to the other side, bottom, or top of the chop. The goal is to create a deep pocket inside the meat.

Move the knife gently back and forth to widen the pocket, but again, be cautious not to pierce through the other sides.

Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe? Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops, but remember they might take longer to cook than boneless. The bone can add flavor but makes it a bit trickier to create a pocket for the stuffing.

How do I know when the pork chops are fully cooked? Pork chops are fully cooked when their internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). It’s best to use a meat thermometer to check this. The meat should be slightly pink in the middle.

Can I prepare the stuffed pork chops ahead of time? Absolutely. You can stuff and season the pork chops, then cover and refrigerate them for several hours or overnight before cooking. This can help the flavors to meld together.

What can I do to prevent the stuffing from falling out while cooking? You can use toothpicks to secure the open sides of the pork chops. Just remember to remove them before serving.

How can I make my stuffed pork chops crispy on the outside? Make sure to brush the pork chops outside with some olive oil or spray with olive oil spray. This will help the stuffed chops crisp up in the air fryer. Also, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, which allows for better air circulation and crispiness.

What are some good side dishes to serve with stuffed pork chops? Stuffed pork chops pair well with a variety of side dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or steamed green beans.

Can I use a different stuffing? Yes, you can customize the stuffing based on your preferences. The most popular stuffing to use is Stove Top Stuffing. Common variations include using different types of bread, adding fruits like apples or cranberries, or including different herbs and spices.

Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer? While not always necessary, preheating the air fryer can lead to more even cooking and a better sear on the meat.

What if I don’t have an air fryer? If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the stuffed pork chops in an oven. The cooking time and temperature might need to be adjusted accordingly.

How long should I let the pork chops rest after cooking? Letting the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes after cooking is usually sufficient. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.

How to store leftover air fryer stuffed pork chops: Let the pork chops cool to room temperature before storing. Then, place the pork chops into an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil. The leftover pork chops will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. For freezering, place the pork chops into a freezer bag.

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