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Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe with Sweet Apple Cider Glaze

crispy air fryer pork chops - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy, juicy pork chops with a sticky, sweet apple cider glaze made in the air fryer for less oil and mess.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick (6 oz / 170 g each)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Let rest at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
  3. Lightly brush or spray the air fryer basket with oil. Place the pork chops in a single layer without overlapping.
  4. Air fry the pork chops for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through at 6 minutes. Use tongs to turn them carefully. Ensure internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  5. While the pork cooks, pour apple cider into a small saucepan. Add brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until thick and syrupy.
  6. Remove glaze from heat and stir in butter and fresh thyme if using.
  7. Transfer pork chops to a serving plate and spoon the warm apple cider glaze generously over each chop.
  8. Let the glazed pork chops rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Patting the pork chops dry before seasoning is essential for a crispy crust. Use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking. Preheat the air fryer and avoid overcrowding the basket for best results. Watch the glaze carefully near the end to prevent burning. Let the pork rest after cooking to keep it juicy. For extra crunch, sprinkle crushed crispy bacon or toasted pecans on the glaze before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork chops, air fryer, apple cider glaze, crispy pork, easy dinner, quick recipe, sweet glaze, bone-in pork chops