Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops

Instructions

Prepare 4 thick cut pork chops by trimming off any excess fat that is unwanted.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup buttermilk, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon salt and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Add in pork chops. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate 4 hours.

In a gallon-sized resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, combine 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs, 1/4 cup cornstarch, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder1 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly.

Working one at a time, remove pork chops from buttermilk mixture. Shake gently to remove any excess liquid and discard the brine. Place in the breading mix to coat thoroughly. Tap off any excess flour. Set on a wire rack for 5-10 minutes while the flour and buttermilk brine meld together.

Spritz the inside of the air fryer basket with oil or nonstick cooking spray. Place the breaded pork chops into the basket of the air fryer. Lightly spritz, making sure all flour gets coated with cooking oil of your choice. Do not not crowd the space to ensure there is plenty of airflow.

Select Air Fry method, 375 degrees Fahrenheit, and cook for 10 minutes. Carefully flip the pork chop and continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the meat hits an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit internal. Cooking time will vary based on the thickness of the pork chop and which air fryer you use. Use a meat thermometer to ensure 100% accuracy for food safety.

Be sure to let rest for 5-10 minutes before eating. Enjoy!

Notes

Can you skip the 4-hour brining time? Yes, you could go straight to breading and frying, but the natural acidity and enzymes in buttermilk tenderize the pork, making it incredibly juicy and tender. You can brine your pork for up to 48 hours before cooking.

When spritzing with oil, you want to lightly and evenly coat the surface of the breaded pork, not soak it.

Main Dish