When it comes to cooking, the air fryer has emerged as a game - changer in the kitchen. This nifty appliance can work wonders, especially when it comes to preparing a delicious and hearty pork chop dish. Unlike traditional frying methods that often involve a large amount of oil, the air fryer allows you to enjoy a similar crispy texture without the excess fat. It's a win - win situation for both your taste buds and your health.

Let's start with the star of the show: the pork chops. Select high - quality pork chops for the best results. You can choose bone - in or boneless, depending on your preference. Before placing them in the air fryer, it's essential to season them properly. A simple combination of salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder can enhance the natural flavor of the pork. Rub the seasonings evenly on both sides of the chops, making sure every bit is well - coated. This step is crucial as it sets the foundation for a flavorful dish.

Now, let's talk about the cooking process in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to around 375°F (190°C). Once preheated, place the seasoned pork chops in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowded, as this can prevent them from cooking evenly. Set the timer for about 12 - 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chops. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the pork chops. This ensures that both sides are cooked to a perfect golden brown and reach the desired internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

While the pork chops are cooking, it's time to prepare the sweet and tangy mustard sauce. In a small saucepan, combine some Dijon mustard, honey, a splash of apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture over medium - low heat, stirring constantly until it comes to a gentle simmer. The honey adds a sweet note, while the Dijon mustard brings in a tangy and slightly spicy flavor. The apple cider vinegar helps to balance the sweetness and gives the sauce a nice acidity. Once the sauce has thickened slightly, remove it from the heat and set it aside. This sauce will be the perfect accompaniment to the pork chops.

Next, we have the crunchy Brussels sprouts. Brussels sprouts are a nutritional powerhouse, and when cooked in the air fryer, they become a delicious side dish. Start by trimming the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cutting them in half. Toss them in a bowl with a little bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure each sprout is coated with the oil and seasonings. Then, place them in the air fryer basket. You can cook them at the same time as the pork chops if your air fryer has enough space or cook them separately. Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the Brussels sprouts for about 15 - 20 minutes, shaking the basket a few times during the cooking process. This helps to ensure that they cook evenly and become crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.

Once the pork chops and Brussels sprouts are cooked, it's time to plate up. Place the air - fried pork chops on a serving plate and drizzle some of the sweet and tangy mustard sauce over them. Arrange the crispy Brussels sprouts alongside the pork chops. You can also add a sprig of fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and an extra burst of flavor. The combination of the juicy pork chops, the flavorful mustard sauce, and the crunchy Brussels sprouts is simply irresistible.

Not only is this air - fried pork chop dish with Brussels sprouts and mustard sauce delicious, but it's also relatively quick and easy to prepare. It's a great option for a weeknight dinner when you don't have a lot of time but still want to enjoy a home - cooked meal. You can also customize the recipe according to your taste preferences. For example, if you like a spicier sauce, you can add a little bit of red pepper flakes to the mustard sauce. Or, if you prefer a different vegetable, you can substitute the Brussels sprouts with other options like broccoli or cauliflower.

In conclusion, the air fryer has made it possible to create a mouth - watering pork chop dish with a healthy twist. The sweet and tangy mustard sauce and the crunchy Brussels sprouts add different layers of flavor and texture to the meal. So, the next time you're looking for a delicious and nutritious dinner idea, give this air - fried pork chop recipe a try. Your family and friends are sure to love it.