Air Fryer Pork Chop Bites

Air Fryer Pork Chop Bites

Air Fryer Pork Chop Bites are a quick and delicious way to enjoy tender, flavorful pork in a bite-sized form. These bites are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, and they come together in just a few minutes. The combination of savory seasonings and the crispy exterior from the air fryer makes them irresistible. Let's take a look at the ingredients you'll need to make this tasty dish.

INGREDIENTS

• Pork Chops: Use 1 pound of boneless thick-cut pork chops, cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, to help the seasoning adhere and promote browning.
• Montreal Steak Seasoning: 1 ½ teaspoons, for a robust and savory flavor.
• Light Brown Sugar: 1 teaspoon, packed, to add a hint of sweetness and caramelization.
• Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon, for a smoky and slightly spicy flavor.
• Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon, to add a subtle garlic taste.
• Onion Powder: ½ teaspoon, to enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Salted Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted, to toss with the cooked pork bites for extra richness.
• Chopped Parsley (optional): For garnish, adding a touch of freshness and color.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Cut the boneless thick-cut pork chops into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are roughly uniform in size for even cooking.

Step 2:

In a bowl, combine the pork chop pieces with olive oil, Montreal steak seasoning, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss until the pork is well coated with the seasoning mixture.

Step 3:

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent the pork from sticking.

Step 4:

Place the seasoned pork chop bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This allows for even cooking and crisping.

Step 5:

Air fry the pork chop bites for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. The pork should reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F for safe consumption.

Step 6:

Once cooked, remove the pork bites from the air fryer and immediately toss them with melted butter for added richness and flavor.

Step 7:

Serve the pork chop bites hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve the Air Fryer Pork Chop Bites hot, straight from the air fryer. These flavorful bites make an excellent appetizer or main dish and pair well with dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard. For a balanced meal, serve them alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through, ensuring they stay crispy.

Helpful Notes

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, increase the amount of brown sugar slightly. The pork chop bites can also be served with a side of mashed potatoes or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. Experiment with different seasonings, such as Italian herbs or lemon pepper, to suit your taste preferences.

Tips from well-known chefs

Chef Gordon Ramsay recommends using fresh, high-quality pork for the best flavor and texture. Ensure the pork is not overcooked to maintain its juiciness.

Chef Jamie Oliver suggests serving the pork bites with a homemade dipping sauce, such as a tangy yogurt dip or a sweet chili sauce, for added flavor.

Chef Rachael Ray advises not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can prevent the bites from becoming crispy. Instead, cook them in batches if necessary.