Air-Fryer Pork Chops: Bone-In, Crispy, And Delicious

Bone-in pork chops are a great option for a juicy, tender, and flavourful meal. They can be cooked in an air fryer in 20 to 25 minutes and are a good alternative to chicken. The chops are best cooked at 400°F for 10 to 15 minutes, but the temperature can be lowered to between 350 and 375°F for thicker chops. The chops should be flipped after 5 to 7 minutes and will be ready when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes

Preheating your air fryer is a crucial step in the cooking process. It helps to maximise the time-saving benefits of this handy appliance and can improve the quality of your food. While some recipes may not specify whether to preheat the air fryer or not, it is generally a good idea to do so. Preheating can speed up cooking time and make your food crispier. It is especially useful when cooking frozen foods, reheating precooked meals, or baking.

To preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes, start by checking the operating manual specific to your air fryer model. Some models have a preheat setting button, while others do not. If your air fryer has a preheat button, simply press it and let the machine do the work. If not, follow these steps:

• Set the temperature: Adjust the temperature dial or buttons on your air fryer to 400°F.
• Turn on the air fryer: Press the power button or turn the dial to turn on the air fryer.
• Timing: Allow the air fryer to run for 5 minutes. You can use the timer function on your air fryer if it has one, or use a separate timer to keep track of the time.

After preheating, you can proceed with the rest of your recipe, such as coating your bone-in pork chops with olive oil and seasonings, placing them in the air fryer basket, and cooking them to perfection!

Prepare the pork chops

To prepare the pork chops, start by rinsing them with cool water and patting them dry with a paper towel. You can use bone-in or boneless pork chops, but bone-in chops are recommended for their juiciness and flavour. If you're using frozen pork chops, make sure to bring them to room temperature before cooking for the quickest and most even cook.

For the seasoning, combine paprika, salt, Italian seasoning, ground black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder in a small bowl to make a spice rub. You can also add Parmesan cheese, cayenne or red pepper flakes, brown sugar, or smoked paprika to the spice mix, depending on your preference. If you want to add a little extra sweetness to your pork chops, you can also try marinating them in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, lime or lemon juice, and freshly minced garlic and ginger.

Once you've prepared your spice rub, brush the pork chops with olive oil or a neutral-flavoured oil like avocado oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil. Then, sprinkle the dried seasoning mix evenly over all sides of the chops, making sure to coat them liberally.

Make the seasoning

To make the seasoning for your bone-in pork chops, you can use a variety of spices and herbs. Here is a detailed guide:

Firstly, gather your chosen spices and herbs. A simple yet effective combination is paprika, salt, Italian seasoning, ground black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. You can also add brown sugar for a sweeter taste and a sticky, delicious outer crust. For a subtle heat, include cayenne or red pepper flakes, adding more or less depending on your preference. If you want a smoky flavour, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. Alternatively, you can use a pre-made ranch seasoning packet or create your own spice mix with your favourite spices.

Next, if you want to add some extra flavour to your chops, you can create a marinade. Mix together some olive oil, soy sauce, honey, and the juice of a lime or lemon. Also, add freshly minced garlic and ginger for a wonderful aroma. This marinade will add moisture and flavour to your pork chops.

Now, it's time to prepare your seasoning. Combine your chosen dry spices and herbs in a small bowl and mix well. If you are using the marinade, simply whisk all the ingredients together in a separate bowl.

Once your seasoning is ready, it's time to coat your pork chops. Brush each chop evenly with olive oil or your marinade. Then, sprinkle the dried seasoning mix evenly over all sides of the chops, rubbing it in well. Make sure the pork chops are well-coated for maximum flavour.

Finally, you can add some grated parmesan cheese to the outside of your chops. This will create a golden brown crust and add a savoury touch to your dish.

Cook the chops for 10-15 minutes

Now, it's time to cook the pork chops! Place the seasoned pork chops in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the chops in batches.

Set the air fryer temperature to 400°F and cook the chops for 10-15 minutes. If your chops are 1-inch thick, they will likely be done in 12-14 minutes. Thinner chops will take less time (8 to 12 minutes), while chops thicker than 1 inch will need a little more time. For a crispier exterior, you can increase the temperature to 400°F.

If your air fryer doesn't circulate air, flip the chops every 5 minutes. For chops that are 1 1/2-2 inches thick, it's recommended to flip them over halfway through the cooking process.

The chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F. To check, use an instant-read thermometer. The meat should be white, and the juices should run clear.

Rest the chops for 3-5 minutes

Once your pork chops are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and place them on a plate. The chops should be left to rest for 3-5 minutes. This is an important step as it allows the juices to settle and redistribute, ensuring your pork chops are tender and juicy.

While the chops are resting, the carryover cooking will bring the internal temperature up by a few degrees. For example, if you remove the chops from the air fryer when they reach an internal temperature of 140°F, the temperature will rise to 145°F while they rest. This is the minimum safe temperature for serving pork, according to the USDA.

The resting time also gives you a chance to prepare any side dishes or sauces to accompany your meal. For example, you could make a quick pan sauce using the juices that have collected in the air fryer. Simply pour off the juices into a small saucepan and reduce them over medium heat until they thicken. You can also add ingredients like butter, herbs, or spices to enhance the flavor of the sauce.

Finally, after the chops have rested, slice them into thin pieces and serve. Enjoy the juicy, tender, and flavorful bone-in pork chops cooked to perfection in your air fryer!

Frequently asked questions