Air Fryer Bone In Pork Chops

Air fryer bone in pork chops are a revelation! The hot air works its magic on the bone-in chops, giving them a golden crust while keeping all that juicy goodness inside. Even better, this air fryer pork recipe is ready in around 20 minutes and uses everyday ingredients to create a flavor-packed glaze that goes beautifully with the pork.

Why you’ll love these air fryer pork chops

Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the whole family, this recipe for air-fried pork chops bone-in style keeps things simple. There’s no breading, no standing over a hot pan and no splattering oil.

Perfectly juicy – thanks to the bone holding in the moisture

Fast and fuss-free – dinner’s on the table in under 20 minutes

Crispy edges, tender centre, without flipping a thing in a frying pan

Easy to season – try this glaze for a simple but sweet and sticky finish, or add your own favorite dried herbs and spices

Family-friendly and filling – just add air fryer sliced potatoes and veggies

Why the air fryer is perfect for cooking bone-in pork

Air frying bone-in pork chops gives you that pan-seared finish with barely any oil and zero oil splatters. The circulating heat crips up the outside, keeps the inside tender and locks in all the flavor. No need to preheat the oven or clean a greasy stovetop – just pop the pork chops in the air fryer and leave it to do its thing.

How long to cook bone-in pork chops in air fryer?

Bone-in pork chops take around 12–15 minutes in the air fryer at 200°C / 400°F, depending on thickness. Flip them halfway through to get that golden, crispy edge on both sides. For juicy chops that are cooked just right, use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 63°C / 145°F, then let them rest for 3 minutes before serving.

Here's some more information about cooking pork safely.

What you’ll need

• 2 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoon brown sugar (or honey for a stickier glaze)
• 1 teaspoon herbs/spices (I used a mix of paprika and oregano)
• 1 teaspoon mustard (your favorite kind)
• Salt and pepper

Equipment

Air fryer (I used a Ninja Dual)

Silicone tongs

Meat thermometer (handy but not essential)

How to make bone in pork chops in an air fryer

What’s the difference between bone-in pork chops and boneless pork chops?

What’s the difference between bone-in pork chops and boneless pork chops?
Bone-in pork chops come with the bone still attached (usually part of the rib or loin), while boneless pork chops have had the bone removed. The bone can help retain moisture and add flavor during cooking, making bone-in chops juicier and more forgiving. Boneless chops, on the other hand, cook a little faster and are easier to cut and serve — perfect for quick weeknight meals. Both are delicious — it just depends on whether you want a little extra flavor from the bone or a quicker, easier prep.

What’s the difference between pork chops and pork steaks?

Pork chops are cut from the loin — the leaner, more tender part of the pig — while pork steaks (also called blade steaks) come from the shoulder, which has more fat and connective tissue. That means pork chops are great for quick cooking methods like air frying, grilling, or pan-searing. Pork steaks, being a bit tougher but more flavorful, shine when slow-cooked, braised, or grilled low and slow. Think of chops as the sleek sports car and steaks as the rugged 4x4 — both amazing, just built for different roads!

Top Tips

Don’t skip the rest time! Letting the chops sit for 3-5 minutes before serving helps the juices stay in the meat.

Use a meat thermometer. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part of the pork chop.

Give them space. Don’t overcrowd the basket or you’ll end up steaming your meat.

For an even easier glaze. Brush with BBQ sauce for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

What to Serve with air fried pork chops?

If you have a dual drawer air fryer, you can easily cook a side dish while you're pork chops are cooking. For a quick meal, I love serving these with air fried sliced potatoes. They also go great with air fryer frozen French fries or sweet potato wedges. Or if you're planning to make a roast dinner, add air fryer roast potatoes and a pile of your favorite vegetables.

Alternatives/Substitutions

For boneless chops: Reduce the cooking time by 2-3 minutes.

Prefer a stickier glaze? Omit the brown sugar and instead add a tablespoon of honey or ketchup.

Seasoning swap: Try Cajun spice, lemon pepper, or your favorite BBQ rub.

No olive oil? Use another neutral oil like avocado or vegetable oil.

Add veggies: Toss in some air fryer green beans or sliced potatoes on the side.

How to store and reheat air fryer pork chops

Store any leftover pork chops in an air tight container, in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for 3-4 minutes until warmed through.