Crispy Air-Fried Bone-In Pork Chops: Quick & Easy Recipe

Cooking bone-in pork chops in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious and juicy meal. This method allows you to achieve a crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior without the need for a large amount of oil. By following a few simple steps, you can transform a basic cut of pork into a mouth-watering dish that's ready in no time.

Preparation: Season chops with salt, pepper, and garlic powder

To begin preparing your bone-in pork chops for the air fryer, start by seasoning them generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This simple yet effective combination of spices will add a delightful depth of flavor to the meat. Begin by patting the chops dry with paper towels; this step is crucial as it ensures a crispier finish. Then, sprinkle the salt, pepper, and garlic powder evenly over both sides of each chop. You can adjust the amount of seasoning to your taste, but a good rule of thumb is about 1 teaspoon of each spice per chop.

Massage the spices into the meat using your fingers or a small spatula. This ensures that the seasoning adheres well to the chops and helps create a flavorful crust. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also add a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to the mix for an extra layer of aroma and taste. Let the chops sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes after seasoning. This step is often overlooked but allows the spices to penetrate the meat more effectively.

For an even more intense flavor, you can marinate the chops in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and more garlic powder for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. This step is optional but highly recommended for a more complex taste. Remember, the key to a delicious air-fried bone-in pork chop is in the seasoning and the right amount of time spent on it.

Cooking Time: Air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway

To cook a bone-in pork chop in an air fryer, you'll want to ensure it's cooked to perfection, retaining its juicy texture and delicious flavor. The key to success is precise timing and a steady temperature. Here's a step-by-step guide to achieving that perfect result:

Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for cooking pork chops as it ensures a good sear and even cooking throughout. While the air fryer preheats, prepare your pork chops by patting them dry with paper towels. Moisture can prevent a crispy exterior, so removing any excess liquid is crucial. Season the chops generously with salt and pepper, or your preferred spices. A simple rub of garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne can add a nice kick.

Once the air fryer is ready, place the pork chops inside. Ensure they are in a single layer, allowing hot air to circulate. Set the cooking time for 12-15 minutes. This duration is a general guideline, and the exact time will depend on the thickness of your chops and your desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for the lower end of the range, while a thicker chop might require a few extra minutes. Remember to flip the chops halfway through the cooking time. This step is essential to ensure even browning and cooking.

After the initial 12-15 minutes, open the air fryer and check the internal temperature of the chops. For a bone-in chop, you're aiming for an internal temperature of around 145°F (medium-rare) to 160°F (medium). Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the meat to get an accurate reading. If the chops are not done, continue cooking in 2-minute intervals, flipping each time, until your desired temperature is reached.

Once cooked, remove the chops from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This step is often overlooked but is crucial for the meat to retain its juices. Finally, serve the pork chops and enjoy the delicious, crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior.

Internal Temperature: Aim for 145°F for medium-rare

When cooking bone-in pork chops in an air fryer, achieving the perfect internal temperature is key to ensuring a juicy and tender result. For medium-rare, you want to aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This temperature will give you a perfectly cooked chop with a pink center, retaining its moisture and flavor. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you master this cooking technique:

Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for cooking pork chops as it allows for a good sear while also ensuring even cooking throughout. Season your bone-in pork chops with salt and pepper, or your preferred seasoning blend. This simple step enhances the natural flavors of the meat.

Place the seasoned chops in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer to allow for even cooking. Cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, flipping the chops halfway through. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chops, so always check the internal temperature to ensure doneness.

To check for the desired internal temperature, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chop, making sure it doesn't touch the bone. For medium-rare, you should aim for 145°F. If your chops are not at this temperature, continue cooking in 2-minute intervals, flipping and checking until you reach the desired doneness.

Once the chops have reached 145°F, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender chop. Finally, serve the chops and enjoy the delicious, perfectly cooked bone-in pork chop!

Resting: Let chops rest 5-10 minutes before serving

Resting is an essential step in the cooking process, especially when it comes to air-frying bone-in pork chops. This simple yet crucial technique allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender final product. After cooking, it's tempting to dive in and serve the chops immediately, but patience is key.

When you take the chops out of the air fryer, they will be hot and may appear slightly underdone. This is normal due to the high heat used in the cooking process. By letting them rest for 5 to 10 minutes, you give the meat time to reach its desired doneness. During this resting period, the juices that have been pushed to the sides of the chop will start to flow back into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and moist texture.

Resting also helps to ensure that the chops are cooked evenly. The internal temperature of the meat might not be uniform immediately after cooking, but as it rests, the heat penetrates the entire chop, cooking it through and making it safe to eat. This is particularly important when dealing with bone-in chops, as the bone can act as a heat conductor, cooking the meat faster on one side.

To make the most of this resting period, you can plate the chops and let them rest on a warm serving dish or a wire rack placed on a baking sheet. This way, any excess fat or juices can drip away, keeping the chops moist and preventing a greasy mess. If you're serving the chops with sides or a sauce, this step also allows the flavors to meld together, creating a more cohesive and delicious meal.

Remember, the resting time can vary depending on your preference for doneness and the thickness of the chops. For medium-rare, 5 minutes might be sufficient, while for well-done, you might need the full 10 minutes. This simple technique is a game-changer for achieving perfectly cooked, juicy bone-in pork chops every time.

Sauce: Serve with a side of BBQ or apple cider glaze

When it comes to cooking bone-in pork chops in an air fryer, achieving a delicious, juicy cut that pairs perfectly with a flavorful sauce is key. Here's a guide on how to cook bone-in pork chops and a recipe for a BBQ or apple cider glaze to serve alongside:

Cooking the Chops:

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for cooking pork chops to a perfect medium-rare.
• Season the chops generously with salt and pepper. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
• Place the chops in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer. If you have multiple chops, you might need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
• Cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, flipping the chops halfway through. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chops and your personal preference for doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (medium-rare) for the best results.
• Once cooked, transfer the chops to a plate lined with paper towels to remove any excess oil.

BBQ Glaze:

For a mouth-watering BBQ glaze, you'll need:

• 1/2 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce (choose a brand with a slightly sweeter profile for a more balanced glaze).
• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.
• 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup (optional, but adds a nice depth of flavor).
• A pinch of black pepper.

Instructions:

• In a small saucepan, combine the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey (if using), and black pepper.
• Simmer the mixture over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. This step helps to reduce the sauce and intensify its flavor.
• Brush the glaze generously over the cooked pork chops while they are still hot. You can also baste the chops during the cooking process for a more even coating.
• If you desire a caramelized, glossy finish, you can broil the chops under a preheated broiler for a few seconds, carefully watching to avoid burning.

Apple Cider Glaze:

For an apple-infused glaze:

• 1/2 cup apple cider.
• 2 tablespoons of brown sugar or granulated sugar.
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard.
• A pinch of ground cinnamon.

Glaze Preparation:

• In a small saucepan, bring the apple cider to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
• Add the sugar and Dijon mustard, stirring continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved.
• Simmer for about 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld.
• Remove from heat and stir in the cinnamon.
• Brush this glaze over the cooked pork chops, creating a beautiful, aromatic coating.

Serve these juicy, flavorful chops with your choice of BBQ or apple cider glaze, and enjoy a delicious, restaurant-worthy meal prepared in the convenience of your air fryer!

Frequently asked questions