Herb Crusted Air Fryer Pork Chops with Garlic Lemon Broccoli

These herb crusted air fryer pork chops deliver big flavor, a juicy center, and a caramelized crust without breading. The quick garlic lemon broccoli cooks while the chops rest, giving you a balanced, diabetic-friendly main dish with minimal cleanup. A 5.8 qt air fryer for low carb cooking makes this especially easy, fitting four 1 inch chops in a single batch. Each serving stays well under 10 grams net carbs, yet supplies steady protein to help keep blood sugar on track. Pork loin chops are naturally lean and pair well with fiber-rich broccoli for a slow, gentle glucose response. Expect about 33 grams of protein and only around 3 grams net carbs per serving, plus heart-healthy olive oil. Browse more [pork recipes](/recipes/category/pork) if you want similar high protein, low glycemic mains for weeknights. This method also teaches smart air fryer habits that support metabolic health. We dry brine the meat, pat it very dry, and use a light oil mist to promote browning rather than relying on starches. For veggie nights, try our tips with low carb air fryer asparagus, or batch cook a lean air fryer meatballs diabetic friendly recipe on weekends to keep your fridge stocked. If you are troubleshooting cook times or basket crowding, our [beginner's air fryer guide](/blog/beginners-air-fryer-guide) explains airflow, spacing, and how to scale for families. Pro tip: preheat the air fryer and keep the rub simple so the pork sears fast. A light spray from a [quality olive oil sprayer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) gives even coverage without excess calories. Always verify doneness with a [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon); pork chops are safe at 145 degrees Fahrenheit and should rest 3 minutes. If you are shopping or upgrading, look for sturdy keto air fryer accessories that fit your basket, and consider a dependable [air fryer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) with room for family meals. Serve with lemon wedges and a crisp side like our tangy [keto coleslaw](/recipes/keto-coleslaw). Leftovers make a great breakfast plate with eggs or a side of keto air fryer bacon. For planning and portions, see our [keto meal prep tips](/blog/keto-meal-prep-guide). FAQs: - How do I get a crispy exterior without using breading? Pat the chops very dry, dry brine with salt for at least 20 minutes, preheat the basket, and use a light oil mist. High heat plus an herb spice rub creates a flavorful crust. - Does the texture change after refrigerating overnight? The crust softens slightly but the chops stay tender. Recrisp by reheating briefly in the air fryer so the edges dry while the center warms. - What temperature should I use to reheat without overcooking? Reheat at 320 to 325 degrees Fahrenheit in the air fryer until the center reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit for leftovers. To keep moisture, add a teaspoon of broth and tent loosely with foil for the first few minutes.

Prep: 15 min. Cook: 18 min. Servings: 4.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless center cut pork chops, 1 inch thick, 5 to 6 ounces each
• 2 cups small broccoli florets (about 180 g)
• 1/2 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced (about 60 g)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Optional: 1 small garlic clove, minced, for the vegetables
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Dry brine the pork: Pat pork chops very dry with paper towels. Season both sides with 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt and the black pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes while you prep the vegetables.
2. Prep the vegetables: In a bowl, toss broccoli and red bell pepper with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, lemon zest, and optional minced garlic.
3. Make the rub: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried rosemary, onion powder, and ground mustard. Rub chops with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, then coat all over with the spice mixture.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes.
5. Cook the pork: Place chops in a single layer in the hot basket. Air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 to 12 minutes total, flipping once halfway, until a [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) inserted in the center reads 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Transfer to a plate and rest for 3 minutes.
6. While the pork rests, cook the vegetables: Reduce air fryer temperature to 380 degrees Fahrenheit. Add the broccoli and peppers to the basket and air fry for 7 to 9 minutes, shaking halfway, until edges are lightly charred and crisp tender.
7. Serve: Plate pork chops with vegetables. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy immediately.

View full recipe on Low Carb Air Fryer