Spicy Air Fryer Pork Chops with Apricot Glaze
Ingredients
For the brine:
4 cups water
2 tablespoons kosher salt
2 tablespoons white sugar
For the pork chop seasoning:
1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon white pepper
For the glaze:
½ cup apricot all-fruit spread
3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ teaspoons Asian chili-garlic sauce
Juice of ½ lime
Cooking spray
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely minced
Directions
Prepare the Brine: In a large bowl, combine the water, kosher salt, and sugar. Stir until the salt and sugar dissolve completely. Submerge the pork chops in the brine, cover, and refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours, allowing the meat to absorb the flavors.
Season the Pork Chops: After removing the pork chops from the brine, discard the brine and pat the chops dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, onion powder, salt, and white pepper. Rub half of this seasoning mix over the surface of the chops, ensuring they are evenly coated. Flip the chops and repeat the process on the other side. Let the chops rest at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes.
Make the Glaze: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the apricot spread, hoisin sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, chili-garlic sauce, and lime juice. Microwave the mixture on high for 3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Once finished, set the glaze aside.
Air Fry the Chops: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C), or follow the manufacturer's recommendation. Lightly spray each side of the seasoned pork chops with cooking spray. Place the chops in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer. Air-fry the chops for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Glaze and Finish Cooking: Once the chops are cooked through, brush them with the prepared glaze. Continue air-frying for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize and the internal temperature of the pork to reach 145°F (63°C).
Serve: Remove the chops from the air fryer and sprinkle with freshly minced parsley. Serve with any remaining glaze on the side for extra flavor.