A simple, reliable guide to cooking juicy pork chops in an air fryer without drying them out.
Finding the Right Cooking Time
Air fryers make pork chops quick and easy to cook, delivering a nicely browned outside with a tender centre. The key is adjusting the cooking time based on thickness and whether the chops are boneless or bone-in. Once you dial this in, pork chops become an effortless weeknight meal.
Cooking Time for Pork Chops in an Air Fryer
Use the guide below for most air fryers set between 180°C and 200°C:
| Type of Pork Chop | Temperature | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless (2–2.5 cm thick) | 190°C | 10–12 minutes (flip halfway) |
| Bone-in pork chops | 190°C | 12–15 minutes (flip halfway) |
| Thin pork chops (under 1.5 cm) | 180°C | 7–9 minutes |
| Thick pork chops (3 cm or more) | 200°C | 14–18 minutes (check internal temperature) |
Food safety tip: Pork chops are ready when they reach an internal temperature of 63°C, followed by a short resting period.
How to Cook Pork Chops in an Air Fryer
1. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat to 190°C for around 3 minutes to help seal in juices.
2. Season the Pork Chops
Pat dry, then season with salt, pepper, oil, and your preferred herbs or spices. Dry surfaces brown more effectively.
3. Arrange in a Single Layer
Place pork chops in the basket without stacking. Proper airflow ensures even cooking.
4. Cook and Flip
Cook according to thickness and flip halfway through for balanced browning.
5. Rest Before Serving
Rest pork chops for 3–5 minutes after cooking to retain moisture.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Lightly oil the chops for better colour.
- Use a thermometer for perfect doneness.
- Marinades improve flavour and tenderness.
- Avoid overcooking, especially with thin chops.
- Thicker cuts always need extra time.
Final Thoughts
Pork chops cooked in an air fryer are fast, consistent, and full of flavour. Once you know the right timing for your preferred cut, this method becomes a dependable go-to for easy dinners.
If you're planning to upgrade or compare options, you can browse air fryers designed for fast, everyday cooking and choose a model that suits your kitchen routine.
