Keto Air Fryer Crispy Pork Chops
These air fryer pork chops feature a crispy, seasoned pork rind coating that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The combination of smoked paprika, garlic, and herbs creates a savory crust that rivals traditional breading while keeping the meat juicy inside. Perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something satisfying without the mess of deep frying. The air fryer ensures even cooking and a golden exterior in just 10-12 minutes.
Ingredients
- 6 boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thickbone-in pork chops1:1
may need extra 2-3 minutes cooking time
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ cup pork rind crumbsalmond flour1:1ketogluten-free
different texture but still low-carb
- 1 teaspoon celery salt
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon basil
- ½ teaspoon oregano
Instructions
- 1
Combine pork rind crumbs with all seasonings in a shallow bowl
- 2
Pat pork chops dry with paper towels
- 3
Brush pork chops with olive oil on all sides
- 4
Dip pork chops into pork rind mixture and coat evenly, paying attention to sides
- 5
Place coated pork chops on parchment-lined air fryer basket
- 6
Air fry at 390 degrees F for 5 minutes
- 7
Flip and continue cooking 5-7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145 degrees
Tips
Use a meat thermometer to ensure pork chops reach 145°F for food safety without overcooking
Let pork chops rest 3-5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute
Make your own pork rind crumbs by crushing store-bought pork rinds in a food processor
Good to Know
Refrigerate cooked pork chops up to 3 days in airtight container
Season and coat pork chops up to 4 hours ahead, refrigerate until ready to cook
Serve immediately while coating is crispy, with low-carb vegetables or salad
Common Mistakes
Don't skip drying pork chops to avoid soggy coating
Don't overcrowd air fryer basket to ensure even cooking
Use meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and dry meat
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
may need extra 2-3 minutes cooking time
FAQ
Can I use bone-in pork chops instead?
Yes, bone-in chops work well but may need an extra 2-3 minutes cooking time due to the bone conducting heat differently.
What if I don't have pork rind crumbs?
Crush whole pork rinds in a food processor, or substitute with almond flour for a different but still low-carb coating.
How long will these keep in the refrigerator?
Cooked pork chops will keep refrigerated for up to 3 days, though the coating is best when freshly made.