If you’re looking for a quick, flavour-packed keto dinner, these Air Fryer Pork Chops with Garlic Herb Butter are a game changer. Air frying delivers perfectly juicy chops with a golden crust in under 20 minutes, making this recipe ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Why choose pork chops? They’re naturally high in protein and healthy fats, keeping you full and satisfied without the carbs. The air fryer ensures even cooking and a crisp exterior without excess oil, while a simple garlic herb butter melts over the top for an irresistible finish.
To make this dish, you’ll season thick-cut pork chops with a blend of smoked paprika, garlic, and fresh herbs, then air fry until golden and just cooked through. While they rest, whip up a quick garlic herb butter to spoon over the hot chops. Serve with your favourite keto sides for a complete, satisfying meal.
At a glance
- Time: 20 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Servings: 2
- Cost: Affordable
Macros (per serving)
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Carbs: 1 g
- Energy: 340 kcal
Ingredients
- 2 (about 400g total) Pork chops (bone-in, 2.5cm thick) (Room temperature for even cooking)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil (For coating)
- 1 tsp Sea salt (Or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 30g Unsalted butter (Softened)
- 1 tbsp, finely chopped Fresh parsley
- 1 small clove, minced Garlic
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Small bowl
- Tongs
- Pastry brush
- Knife
- Chopping board
Steps
- Pat pork chops dry with kitchen paper. Brush both sides with olive oil.
- Mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over both sides of the chops.
- Preheat air fryer to 200°C for 3 minutes.
- Place pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and internal temp reaches 63°C.
- While chops cook, mash softened butter with parsley and minced garlic in a bowl until well combined.
- Rest pork chops for 3 minutes after cooking. Top each with a generous spoonful of garlic herb butter before serving.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens:
Recipe contains: dairy
Potential swaps:
- Butter → Dairy-free spread or coconut oil — For a dairy-free version
- Pork chops → Chicken thighs — Adjust air fryer time to 12–14 minutes
Serving Ideas
- Crisp green salad – adds freshness and crunch.
- Roasted broccoli – for extra fibre and nutrients.
- Cauliflower mash – a creamy, low-carb classic.
Additional Info
Chefs Tips
- Let pork chops come to room temperature before cooking for even results.
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
- Resting the chops after air frying keeps them juicy.
Variations
- Swap parsley for fresh thyme or chives in the butter.
- Add a pinch of chilli flakes for a spicy kick.
Troubleshooting
- If chops are dry, reduce cooking time by 1–2 minutes next time.
- If not browning, brush with a little more oil before air frying.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
- Fridge: up to 3 days
- Freezer: up to 2 months
- Reheat: Reheat in the air fryer at 160°C for 3–4 minutes or gently in a covered pan.
Ingredient Spotlight
Pork chops: Choose bone-in for extra juiciness and flavour.
Garlic: Fresh garlic in the butter adds a punchy, aromatic finish.
FAQs
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, boneless chops work well. Reduce air fryer time by 1–2 minutes as they cook faster.
How do I know when pork chops are done?
They’re ready when the internal temperature reaches 63°C and juices run clear.
Can I prep these in advance?
You can season the chops and make the butter up to 24 hours ahead. Cook just before serving.
What sides go well with these pork chops?
Try a crisp green salad, roasted broccoli, or cauliflower mash for a complete keto meal.
How do I keep pork chops from drying out?
Don’t overcook—use a thermometer and let them rest for juicy, tender results.
Air Fryer Pork Chops with Garlic Herb Butter – Juicy & Quick
Ingredients
- 2 (about 400g total) Pork chops (bone-in, 2.5cm thick) (Room temperature for even cooking)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil (For coating)
- 1 tsp Sea salt (Or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 30g Unsalted butter (Softened)
- 1 tbsp, finely chopped Fresh parsley
- 1 small clove, minced Garlic
Instructions
- Pat pork chops dry with kitchen paper. Brush both sides with olive oil.
- Mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over both sides of the chops.
- Preheat air fryer to 200°C for 3 minutes.
- Place pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and internal temp reaches 63°C.
- While chops cook, mash softened butter with parsley and minced garlic in a bowl until well combined.
- Rest pork chops for 3 minutes after cooking. Top each with a generous spoonful of garlic herb butter before serving.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens: dairy
- Butter → Dairy-free spread or coconut oil — For a dairy-free version
- Pork chops → Chicken thighs — Adjust air fryer time to 12–14 minutes
Nutrition (per serving)
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Carbs: 1 g
- Energy: 340 kcal
