Garlic Rosemary Air Fryer Pork Chops with Lemon Broccoli

These juicy garlic rosemary pork chops pair with crisp lemony broccoli for a fast, low carb main dish that stays tender in the air fryer. With only about 5 grams net carbs per serving, this balanced plate delivers satisfying protein and fiber without spiking blood sugar. A light olive oil rub locks in moisture while the air fryer creates caramelized edges and bright, roasted broccoli. Lean pork plus nonstarchy vegetables is a smart formula for steady energy. Each serving offers ample protein to slow digestion and fiber from broccoli to help blunt glucose swings, which suits people managing diabetes. If you came here searching for an air fryer turkey breast low carb recipe, an air fryer turkey breast zero carb recipe, or an air fryer turkey breast low net carb recipe, this same simple herb rub works beautifully on poultry too. Browse more [chicken recipes](/recipes/category/poultry) if you want to try the seasoning on different cuts. We keep sugars out completely and rely on herbs, garlic, lemon zest, and a touch of olive oil for flavor. The approach is flexible as well. The same timing cues and spice blend are excellent on keto air fryer chicken breasts. If your model includes a keto air fryer dehydrator feature, you can run it briefly to dry the surface of brined chops before cooking for extra browning. For best results, pat the pork dry, season generously, and use a light spritz of oil on the food. A [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) keeps the pork reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit, then rest for 3 minutes to finish safely and stay juicy. Do not overcrowd the basket, and shake the broccoli once for even charring. A [quality olive oil sprayer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) helps apply a thin, even coat, and a reliable countertop [air fryer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) with good airflow makes all the difference. Serve these pork chops with the lemon garlic broccoli and a bright side like our crunchy [keto coleslaw](/recipes/keto-coleslaw). Leftovers hold well for meal prep, and you can slice the pork over salads or cauliflower rice bowls. For more air fryer know-how, see our [beginner's air fryer guide](/blog/beginners-air-fryer-guide) and plan a full week of low carb plates with our [keto meal prep tips](/blog/keto-meal-prep-guide). FAQs: **Should I spray oil on the food or in the basket?** Lightly spritz the food, not the basket. Most baskets are nonstick, and a thin coat on the ingredients promotes crisping without excess fat. **What is the best way to reheat this in the air fryer?** Reheat at 320 degrees Fahrenheit for 6 to 8 minutes until the pork reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. **How do I prevent food from drying out in the air fryer?** Pat dry, season, and use a thin film of oil. Cook pork to exactly 145 degrees Fahrenheit, then rest 3 minutes to lock in juices.

Prep: 15 min. Cook: 20 min. Servings: 4.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless center-cut pork chops, 1 inch thick, 6 to 7 oz each
• 1 tsp kosher salt, plus 1 tsp more for optional dry brine
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried rosemary, lightly crushed (or 2 tsp fresh minced)
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 4 cups broccoli florets (about 12 oz)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested, plus 1 tsp lemon juice
• Optional: pinch crushed red pepper

Instructions

1. Optional dry brine for extra juiciness: Pat pork chops very dry. Sprinkle both sides with 1 tsp kosher salt and refrigerate uncovered for 30 to 60 minutes. Before seasoning, blot off surface moisture and reduce the salt in the rub to 1/2 tsp.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Season the broccoli: In a bowl, toss florets with 1 tbsp olive oil, minced garlic, half the lemon zest, a pinch of salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper if using.
4. Air fry the broccoli: Arrange in a single layer and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking halfway, until tender-crisp with light char. Transfer to a bowl, toss with 1 tsp lemon juice and remaining zest, and cover to keep warm.
5. Increase the air fryer temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Make the rub: Mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried rosemary, black pepper, and 1 tsp kosher salt (use 1/2 tsp if you dry brined).
7. Season the pork: Rub chops with the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, then coat evenly with the spice mix.
8. Air fry the pork chops: Place in a single layer and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping at 6 minutes, until the thickest part reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit on a digital meat thermometer.
9. Rest the meat: Transfer chops to a plate and rest for 3 minutes to finish carryover cooking and retain juices per USDA guidance.
10. Serve the pork chops with the lemon garlic broccoli.

View full recipe on Low Carb Air Fryer