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Kid-Approved Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops with Herb Butter

air fryer pork chops - featured image

These air fryer pork chops are quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights. With a crispy seasoned crust and a rich herb butter finish, they’re a family-friendly dinner that comes together in under 25 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick (about 600g total)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (60g)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (30g)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon milk or buttermilk
  • Olive oil spray or cooking spray
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (42g)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1/4 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Make the herb butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, chopped parsley, thyme, rosemary, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mix with a fork until well combined. Set aside at room temperature.
  2. Set up breading station: In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, beat egg with milk until smooth. In a third bowl, add panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Prepare pork chops: Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. If thicker than 1 inch, gently pound to even thickness. Season both sides with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  4. Bread the pork chops: Dredge each chop in flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into egg wash, letting excess drip off. Press into panko breadcrumbs, coating both sides evenly. Place on a plate.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
  6. Lightly spray air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place breaded pork chops in a single layer without touching. Spray tops lightly with olive oil spray. Cook for 10 minutes.
  7. Flip chops using tongs, spray other side lightly, and cook for another 8-10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and crust is golden brown.
  8. Transfer chops to a serving plate. Place a generous dollop of herb butter on each chop while hot. Let melt for 30 seconds, then gently spread over surface.
  9. Let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, pat pork chops dry before breading to ensure crispy crust. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Let butter soften naturally for proper herb incorporation. If air fryer is small, cook in batches and keep first batch warm in a 200°F (90°C) oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer pork chops, crispy pork chops, herb butter, quick dinner, family dinner, easy pork chops