Name: Air Fryer Pork Chop Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless pork chops, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 egg, beaten; Cooking spray

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air fryer pork chop bites are the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and flavorful. These bite-sized pieces cook quickly, making them an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner, snack, or appetizer. Using the air fryer eliminates the need for excessive oil, making them a healthier alternative to deep-fried pork. Plus, their crispy coating and tender interior make them irresistible for both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Boneless pork chops
Olive oil
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Smoked paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Italian seasoning
Parmesan cheese
Panko breadcrumbs
Egg
Cooking spray

Directions

Prepare the Pork: Cut the boneless pork chops into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
Season the Pork: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Toss the pork bites in the seasoning mixture until well coated.
Prepare the Coating: In one bowl, beat an egg. In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
Coat the Pork Bites: Dip each seasoned pork bite into the egg, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for about 3 minutes.
Arrange the Pork Bites: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the pork bites in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
Cook: Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.
Check for Doneness: The internal temperature of the pork should reach 145°F. If needed, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Serve: Remove from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Variations

Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Asian-Inspired: Use soy sauce, ginger, and sesame seeds for a flavorful twist.
Low-Carb Option: Swap panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
Honey Garlic Flavor: Toss the cooked pork bites in a honey garlic sauce for a sticky-sweet finish.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover pork chop bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Place cooked bites in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

How do I make sure the pork stays juicy?

Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Can I use bone-in pork chops?

Yes, but boneless chops are easier to cut into bite-sized pieces and cook more evenly.

What dipping sauces go well with these pork chop bites?

Ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, and spicy mayo are great choices.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, but panko breadcrumbs create a crispier texture.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free panko or crushed pork rinds instead of regular breadcrumbs.

Do I need to marinate the pork?

Marinating is not necessary but can enhance the flavor if you let the pork sit in the seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

These pork chop bites go great with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad.

Can I cook these without an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes! Prep the pork bites and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying.

Why are my pork chop bites not crispy?

Make sure to spray them lightly with cooking spray and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

Conclusion

Air fryer pork chop bites are a simple yet delicious dish that packs a punch of flavor and crunch without the excess oil of deep frying. They’re easy to customize, quick to cook, and perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a main course, appetizer, or snack, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try them today and enjoy crispy, juicy pork bites straight from your air fryer!

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