A simple, clear guide to cooking juicy, perfectly cooked pork chops using an air fryer.
Finding the Right Cooking Time
Air fryers make pork chops incredibly easy to cook — crispy on the outside, tender in the centre and ready in a fraction of the usual time. The exact timing depends on the thickness of the pork chops and whether they’re bone-in or boneless. With the right temperature and a few simple steps, you can achieve reliable results every time.
Cooking Time for Pork Chops in an Air Fryer
Below are common cooking guidelines for a standard 180°C–200°C air fryer:
| Type of Pork Chop | Temperature | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless Pork Chops (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 temp) |
Tip: Pork chops are safely cooked when the internal temperature reaches 63°C, followed by a few minutes of resting.
How to Cook Pork Chops in an Air Fryer
1. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheating helps create a good sear. Heat your air fryer to 190°C for about 3 minutes.
2. Season the Pork Chops
Pat dry, then season with salt, pepper, oil and your choice of herbs or spices. A dry surface helps with caramelisation.
3. Arrange in a Single Layer
Place the pork chops in the basket without stacking. Crowding reduces air circulation and causes uneven cooking.
4. Cook and Flip
Cook according to the timing chart above. Flip halfway to ensure both sides cook evenly and brown properly.
5. Rest Before Serving
Let the pork chops rest for 3–5 minutes after cooking. This keeps the juices locked in and improves texture.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Brush lightly with oil for better browning.
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
- Add a marinade or rub for extra flavour.
- For juicier pork chops, avoid overcooking.
- Thicker chops always need a few extra minutes.
Final Thoughts
Air fryers make pork chops a quick and reliable dinner option. With the right temperature and timing, you’ll get juicy and flavour-packed results every time. Once you learn the ideal timing for your air fryer model and chop thickness, this becomes an effortless weeknight meal.
