Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops Recipe

Prep: 5 minCook: 9 min4 servingsmediumAmerican
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops Recipe

Tender boneless pork chops get a golden, crispy coating of seasoned parmesan cheese in this quick air fryer recipe. The combination of garlic powder, smoked paprika, and finely grated cheese creates a flavorful crust that locks in juices while cooking in just 7 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners when you want restaurant-quality results without the fuss. The air fryer circulation ensures even browning and a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

4 servings
  • 4 boneless pork chops
    bone-in pork chops1:1longer cook

    add 2-3 minutes cooking time

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    avocado oil1:1neutral

    higher smoke point

    Full guide →
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
    regular paprika1:1milder

    less smoky flavor

    Full guide →
  • ½ teaspoon ground mustard
  • ½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese
    nutritional yeast1:1dairy-freedairy-free

    nutty flavor but won't crisp the same

    Full guide →

Instructions

  1. 1

    Stir together salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, mustard, and parmesan cheese in a small bowl

  2. 2

    Coat the pork chops in olive oil

  3. 3

    Press the pork chops in the parmesan coating, turning and pressing until all sides are well coated

  4. 4

    Spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray

  5. 5

    Place pork chops in the basket with space between each chop so they are not touching

  6. 6

    Set the temperature to 375° and cook for 4 minutes

  7. 7

    Open the air fryer, flip the pork chops, and cook for an additional 3 minutes

  8. 8

    Check for doneness with a meat thermometer and cook for an additional 2 minutes if needed

  9. 9

    Remove and serve with vegetables

Tips

Tip 1

Pat pork chops dry before coating to help the parmesan mixture adhere better

Tip 2

Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket - cook in batches if needed for proper air circulation

Tip 3

Let pork chops rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate cooked pork chops for up to 3 days in airtight container

Make Ahead

Season and coat pork chops up to 2 hours ahead, refrigerate until ready to cook

Serve With

Serve immediately while coating is crispy, pairs well with roasted vegetables or salad

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't skip preheating air fryer to avoid uneven cooking

Watch

Avoid pressing too hard when coating to prevent meat from becoming tough

Watch

Don't flip too early or coating may stick to basket

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

parmesan cheese
nutritional yeast1:1dairy-freedairy-free

nutty flavor but won't crisp the same

Full guide →

General Alternatives

olive oil
avocado oil1:1neutral

higher smoke point

Full guide →
smoked paprika
regular paprika1:1milder

less smoky flavor

Full guide →
boneless pork chops
bone-in pork chops1:1longer cook

add 2-3 minutes cooking time

Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I use bone-in pork chops instead?

Yes, but increase cooking time by 2-3 minutes and check internal temperature reaches 145°F.

What if I don't have smoked paprika?

Regular paprika works fine, or try cayenne for heat. The coating will still be delicious.

How long do leftovers keep?

Store in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.