Ingredients:

  • 4 Bone-in Pork Chops, centre cut (approx. 1.5 inches / 4 cm thick)
  • 1 Tbsp (15 ml) Olive Oil or Avocado Oil
  • 1 tsp (5 g) Light Brown Sugar, packed
  • 1 Tbsp (8 g) Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp (5 g) Kosher Salt
  • 1/2 tsp (2 g) Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 1 tsp (5 g) Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) Onion Powder
  • 1/2 tsp (1 g) Dried Thyme

Instructions:

  1. Pat the pork chops dry thoroughly using paper towels. This is crucial for proper crust formation. Then, in a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme to create the rub.
  2. Lightly brush or rub the 1 Tbsp of oil evenly over all sides of the pork chops. Generously coat each chop with the seasoning mixture, pressing the rub firmly into the meat to ensure it adheres well.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. Carefully place the seasoned pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Crucially: Do not overlap them. You may need to cook in batches.
  4. Cook the chops for 6–8 minutes, then flip them using tongs. Continue cooking for another 6–8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches a safe 145°F (63°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer.
  5. Transfer the cooked chops to a cutting board or plate. Tent loosely with foil and allow them to rest for 5 minutes. This resting period ensures a tender and moist result. Serve immediately.