Garlic Herb Air Fryer Pork Chops with Broccoli and Peppers

This air fryer pork chops keto recipe delivers juicy chops with a crisp, garlicky crust and a colorful side of broccoli and red peppers, all in one basket. It is designed for steady energy and steady satisfaction, with under 10 grams net carbs per serving and a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. If you need an air fryer quick weeknight low carb dinner, this is your new staple. Lean pork chops offer high-quality protein that helps blunt post-meal glucose spikes, while non-starchy vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers keep carbs in check and add antioxidants. Each serving lands around 5 grams net carbs with approximately 42 grams of protein, which supports satiety and muscle maintenance for blood sugar management. For more healthy dinner inspiration, browse more [chicken recipes](/recipes/category/poultry). This method aligns with practical air fryer temperature keto guidelines by cooking the pork at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for a reliably crisp exterior and a tender interior. The sugar-free herb rub avoids hidden carbs while olive oil adds flavor and assists fat-soluble nutrient absorption. Together, the macros and technique make this a strong fit for diabetics who want flavor and consistency meal after meal. Pro tips: pat the chops very dry, then lightly oil and coat with the rub so the spices adhere. Preheat your basket fully for even browning. Always verify doneness with a [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon); pork should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit, then rest 3 minutes. A fine mist from a [quality olive oil sprayer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) helps you use just enough oil for crisp veggies without overshooting calories. If you are shopping for a first appliance, a larger [air fryer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) makes batching easy for a family size air fryer for low carb cooking. Serve with lemon wedges and a simple keto mayo or pair with our crunchy [keto coleslaw](/recipes/keto-coleslaw). Leftovers keep well for meal prep, and you can reheat the chops at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 5 minutes until warmed to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. For more step-by-step help, see our [beginner's air fryer guide](/blog/beginners-air-fryer-guide) and plan your week with our [keto meal prep tips](/blog/keto-meal-prep-guide). If your model includes a keto air fryer dehydrator setting, use it to dry herb blends or make crispy garlic chips for a no-carb topping. FAQ: - What temperature adjustments should I make for a smaller air fryer? If your basket is compact, reduce the load and cook at 390 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, checking 1 to 2 minutes earlier; tight spacing browns faster. - Will the seasoning hold up after being stored? Yes. The dry rub clings well and actually deepens in flavor after chilling. Store seasoned chops tightly covered up to 24 hours before cooking. - Can I meal prep this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely. Cook, cool, then refrigerate up to 4 days. Reheat at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until the pork returns to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep veggies separate to maintain crispness.

Prep: 15 min. Cook: 12 min. Servings: 4.

Ingredients

• 4 center-cut pork chops, 1 inch thick, about 6 ounces each
• 3 cups broccoli florets, bite size (about 9 ounces)
• 1 medium red bell pepper, cored and sliced into 1 inch strips
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
• 2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese, optional

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes. Pat pork chops very dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon kosher salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Rub 1 tablespoon olive oil over the chops, then coat evenly with the spice mixture and lemon zest.
3. Toss broccoli and bell pepper with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, remaining 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Sprinkle Parmesan over the vegetables if using.
4. Arrange chops in a single layer in the preheated basket. If space allows, add the vegetables around them without overcrowding. Otherwise, cook vegetables after the pork.
5. Air fry pork chops at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping once halfway. Use a digital meat thermometer to confirm the thickest part reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Transfer chops to a plate and rest 3 minutes.
6. If cooking vegetables separately, air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 7 to 9 minutes, shaking the basket once, until crisp-tender and lightly charred.
7. Drizzle vegetables and pork with lemon juice. Serve hot with extra lemon wedges. Note: For a smaller air fryer, cook in batches to avoid crowding and begin checking doneness 1 to 2 minutes earlier.

View full recipe on Low Carb Air Fryer