Air Fryer Bone-In Pork Chops

Okay, so… have you ever tried bone-in pork chops in the air fryer? Oh my gosh, they come out so juicy and crispy! I didn’t think it would be this easy.

I gave it a try one night when I was short on time. Just a few simple steps, and boom — dinner was done. My family kept asking for more!

What I love most? That crispy edge and tender middle. It’s like magic, but without a lot of mess.

So if you’ve got pork chops and an air fryer sitting around, let’s do this! I’ll walk you through it, step by step. You’re gonna love how simple and tasty it is.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Naturally Juicy: Bone-in chops stay moist and tender in the air fryer.
• Bold Flavor: A balanced blend of smoked paprika, brown sugar, and herbs makes every bite memorable.
• Quick & Easy: No need to marinate—just rub, air fry, and serve in under 25 minutes.
• Healthy Option: No deep frying and no breading means less oil and fewer calories.
• Perfect for Beginners: Simple steps and a forgiving cook time make this recipe great for new cooks.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: About 25 minutes

Servings: Serves 4 people

Difficulty: Easy – Minimal prep, just mix the rub and cook.

Required Kitchen Tools

You’ll need just a few basic tools to make these pork chops:

• Air Fryer: A basket-style or oven-style air fryer will both work.
• Tongs: For flipping the pork chops halfway through.
• Meat Thermometer: Optional, but helpful for ensuring doneness.
• Small Mixing Bowl: For combining the spice rub.
• Pastry Brush or Hands: For applying the olive oil and spice rub evenly.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Bone-In Pork Chops

This rub uses everyday pantry spices to build deep flavor quickly. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bone-In Pork Chops (4): ¼ to ½ inch thick for quick, even cooking.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the seasoning stick and promotes browning.
• Smoked Sweet Paprika (2 tablespoons): Adds smoky, warm flavor.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): For earthy depth.
• Black Pepper (¾ teaspoon): A mild kick of heat.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances overall flavor.
• Mustard Powder (½ teaspoon): Adds subtle tang and sharpness.
• Onion Powder (½ teaspoon): For a touch of sweetness and savoriness.
• Dried Thyme (¾ teaspoon): Gives an herby lift.
• Brown Sugar (2 tablespoons): Balances the spices with gentle sweetness.

Variations for Air Fryer Bone-In Pork Chops

• Add Heat: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier rub.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Swap garlic powder for 2 minced garlic cloves for stronger garlic flavor.
• Try Different Herbs: Replace thyme with rosemary or Italian seasoning for a different herby profile.
• Honey Instead of Brown Sugar: For a touch of floral sweetness, use a light drizzle of honey.
• Balsamic Glaze Finish: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the finished chops for a tangy-sweet contrast.

How to Make Air Fryer Bone-In Pork Chops: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Dry pork chops help the oil and spices stick better and create a nice crust during cooking.

2. Make the Spice Rub

In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, mustard powder, onion powder, thyme, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine.

3. Season the Pork Chops

Rub each pork chop with olive oil, using a brush or your hands. Then, sprinkle the seasoning blend generously over both sides. Press it in gently so it adheres to the meat.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes. This helps achieve a crispier texture.

5. Cook the Pork Chops

Place the pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd—leave a little space between each chop. Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Thicker chops may need a few extra minutes.

6. Rest Before Serving

Transfer the pork chops to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist.

How to Serve Air Fryer Bone-In Pork Chops

These pork chops are versatile and pair beautifully with a wide variety of sides. Here are a few simple serving ideas:

• With Roasted Veggies: Serve alongside roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts.
• With Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing for comfort food lovers.
• Over Rice or Quinoa: Add a spoonful of pan drippings or a light gravy for extra flavor.
• With a Fresh Salad: Balance the rich pork with a crisp green salad or tangy coleslaw.
• With Apples: A warm apple compote or sautéed apples complements the smoky sweetness of the seasoning.

Storing Leftover Pork Chops

Refrigerate:
Let the pork chops cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.

Freeze:
Wrap each pork chop in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheat:
Warm in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat gently in the microwave, but use short bursts to avoid drying them out.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Pork is ready at 145°F (63°C).
• Even Thickness is Key: If your pork chops are uneven, pound them slightly with a meat mallet to promote even cooking.
• Don’t Skip Preheating: Starting with a hot air fryer helps sear the outside and lock in juices.
• Rest Before Serving: A 5-minute rest after cooking makes a big difference in moisture and tenderness.
• Single Layer Only: Cook in batches if needed—stacking will steam the chops instead of crisping them.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~290 kcal
Protein	26g
Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	5g
Carbohydrates	5g
Sugar	3g
Fiber	0.5g
Sodium	580mg
Cholesterol	75mg

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific pork chop cuts and portion sizes.

FAQs About Air Fryer Pork Chops

Can I use boneless pork chops instead?
Yes. Boneless chops work well, but they may cook a bit faster, so start checking around 10 minutes.

What if my pork chops are thicker than ½ inch?
Thicker chops will need more cook time—closer to 16–18 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to be sure they hit 145°F.

Can I marinate the pork chops instead of using a dry rub?
Absolutely. A marinade works well too—just be sure to pat the meat dry before air frying to avoid excess moisture.

Do I need to flip them halfway through cooking?
Yes, flipping ensures even browning and texture on both sides.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Bone-In Pork Chops are a quick, flavorful option that fits into any weeknight meal plan. With a simple homemade rub, you get bold taste and tender texture with very little work. Whether you’re new to the air fryer or a seasoned pro, this recipe keeps things simple while delivering great results.