A Love Affair with Pork Chops: Discovering the Air Fryer Magic

Let's be honest, pork chops have a notorious reputation for being easy to mess up. They can turn from succulently juicy to disappointingly dry in a matter of minutes. That's until I discovered the wonders of cooking them in an air fryer. The result? Perfectly cooked pork chops every time. And when you introduce a flavorful garlic marinade into the mix, it's a game-changer. Whether you're a rookie in the kitchen or looking to try something new, this thick cut pork chops recipe using an air fryer will guide you to a mouth-watering meal that's hard to get wrong.

Why You'll Love This Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe

Cooking pork chops in the air fryer not only saves time but also reduces the amount of oil needed, making it a healthier option. But the real secret lies in the marinade. A good marinade can transform plain pork chops into a delectable treat, and this garlic marinade does exactly that. It's easy, it's quick, and packs a punch of flavor.

This recipe is particularly beginner-friendly. You'll learn not just how to cook the pork chops, but how to prepare and use a marinade to enhance flavor, and how to ensure your pork chops are moist and tender.

Ingredients for Garlic Marinade

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Additional Ingredients

  • 4 thick cut pork chops (about 1-inch thick)

Tools Needed

  • Air Fryer
  • Small bowl for mixing marinade
  • Brush for applying marinade
  • Meat thermometer

Preparing Your Pork Chops and Marinade

Start by prepping your marinade. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed. Place your pork chops in a suitable marinating dish or a large zipper bag. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure each piece is well coated. Let them marinate for at least 20 minutes, though if you have time, letting them sit for a couple of hours in the refrigerator will intensify the flavors even more.

Cooking Your Pork Chops in an Air Fryer

When you're ready to cook, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This ensures that the pork chops will start cooking immediately, sealing in the juices. Place the marinated pork chops in the air fryer basket. Make sure they're not overlapped; they should lie in a single layer for even cooking.

Cook for about 10-12 minutes, then flip the chops over. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your chops and your specific air fryer model, so I recommend checking with a meat thermometer to ensure they've reached the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Once cooked, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring your pork chops are juicy and tender.

Serving Suggestions

These garlic-marinated pork chops are versatile. Serve them with a side of roasted vegetables, over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, or alongside a fresh salad for a lighter option. To add an extra touch, you could whip up a simple sauce by deglazing the air fryer pan with a bit of chicken stock and butter, then drizzling it over the chops.

Summing It All Up

Air frying your pork chops with a delicious garlic marinade not only keeps things simple but also incredibly tasty. This approach to pork chops ensures you end up with a dish that's both satisfying and impressive. The key takeaway? Don't skip the resting period after cooking; it makes all the difference. With just a bit of prep and passive cooking time, you can achieve a gourmet-like meal that can brighten up any typical weeknight or special occasion. So why not give it a try? Let your air fryer and this recipe make you the master of pork chops!

And for those who bravely venture into new cooking territories with an air fryer, I salute you. Here's to many more delicious, perfectly-cooked meals!