Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps develop a good crust.
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Moisture on the surface can prevent browning.
Coat and season: Rub chops with olive oil.
In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and brown sugar if using. Sprinkle evenly on both sides and press to help it stick.
Prepare the basket: Lightly mist the air fryer basket with cooking spray to reduce sticking.
Air fry: Arrange chops in a single layer with space between them. Cook at 400°F for 8–10 minutes total, flipping halfway.
Start checking at the 7–8 minute mark.
Check doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer. Target 140–145°F in the thickest part. Thinner chops will cook faster; thicker may need another 1–2 minutes.
Rest: Transfer to a plate and let rest for 3–5 minutes. This keeps them juicy.
Finish and serve: Squeeze a little lemon, sprinkle parsley, or add a quick sauce if you like.
Pair with a simple salad, roasted veggies, or mashed potatoes.