Sometimes a meal just feels like it belongs on a cozy table with family, warm drinks, and laughter — and this Air Fryer Charred Pork Cutlet with Apple & Fennel Remoulade is exactly that kind of dish. The pork cutlets get a perfect char in the air fryer that locks in the juices, while a crisp, slightly sweet fennel and apple remoulade adds a fresh, tangy crunch that balances the richness of the pork.
I love making this recipe when my grandkids are visiting because it’s easy to prep, fast to cook, and everyone gets excited by the vibrant colors and flavors. My husband enjoys the depth of flavor, while my adult kids love how satisfying it feels without being heavy. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and slightly fancy — exactly what I want for family dinners or weekend meals.
The best part? The air fryer does most of the work, giving the pork a deliciously golden, slightly charred exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. The apple and fennel remoulade adds freshness and a touch of sweetness, creating a dish that’s layered in flavor yet surprisingly simple.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Air fryer gives pork a perfectly charred, juicy result.
- Apple and fennel remoulade is fresh, crunchy, and lightly sweet.
- Quick to prepare and easy to cook — weeknight or weekend-friendly.
- Kid-friendly and adaptable for picky eaters.
- Feels gourmet but requires minimal effort.
Every bite is a perfect balance of savory pork, crisp vegetables, and lightly sweet apple, making this a family favorite that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the pork cutlets:
- Boneless pork cutlets (½ inch thick)
- Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
For the apple & fennel remoulade:
- 1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced
- 1 crisp apple (Honeycrisp or Fuji), julienned
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Optional: drizzle of honey or a few toasted nuts for extra texture
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pat pork cutlets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly brush the cutlets with olive oil to help achieve a golden char.
- Place the cutlets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and edges are lightly charred.
- While the pork cooks, prepare the remoulade. In a medium bowl, combine sliced fennel, julienned apple, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until evenly coated.
- Taste the remoulade and adjust seasoning. Add a drizzle of honey if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
- Once pork is done, remove from the air fryer and let it rest for 3–5 minutes.
- Plate the pork cutlets and top generously with the apple and fennel remoulade.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or toasted nuts for added crunch.
- Serve immediately with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.
Kitchen Notes From My Experience
- Patting pork dry before seasoning ensures a proper sear and prevents steaming.
- Thinly slice fennel and apple for the remoulade so every bite is crisp and refreshing.
- The remoulade can be made ahead, but keep chilled until serving for best texture.
- Leftover pork is great for sandwiches or salads the next day.
For more pork cooking tips, don’t miss my Ultimate Air Fryer Pork Recipes Guide.
Flavor Variations
- Add a pinch of chili flakes to the remoulade for mild heat.
- Swap apple for pear for a slightly softer, sweeter flavor.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter remoulade.
- Sprinkle toasted almonds, pecans, or pumpkin seeds on top for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted or air-fried vegetables
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Quinoa or couscous
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, casual family meals, or even a small dinner gathering when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Storage and Reheating
- Store pork cutlets and remoulade separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat pork in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to maintain crisp edges and juiciness.
- Do not store remoulade with the pork; it is best fresh to keep the crunch and freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of cutlets?
Yes, but increase cooking time and check the internal temperature to ensure doneness.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, the apple adds sweetness that makes it appealing to kids, and you can serve plain cutlets if picky eaters prefer.
Can I make the remoulade ahead?
Yes, prepare it up to an hour in advance and store in the fridge. Toss before serving.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your condiments are certified gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Charred Pork Cutlet with Apple & Fennel Remoulade is one of those recipes that elevates a regular dinner into something memorable. Juicy pork cutlets, lightly charred, paired with a crisp, tangy, and slightly sweet remoulade make every bite exciting and satisfying.
It’s approachable, quick enough for weeknights, yet special enough for weekend meals or casual entertaining. This recipe is perfect for families, appealing to adults and kids alike, and brings everyone to the table with smiles.
The air fryer makes cooking simple, cleanup easy, and keeps the pork perfectly tender while giving it that restaurant-quality char. This is a dish that will become a regular in your rotation — hearty, flavorful, and full of those little touches that make home-cooked meals unforgettable.
