This honey garlic air fryer pork chops recipe is made with a quick marinade that keeps your chops incredibly moist. Ready in just 25 minutes, they're perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner fast.
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Why my recipe
Here's the thing about boneless pork chops - everyone thinks they're impossible to keep moist. But this marinade penetrates the meat and locks in moisture during cooking for tender pork chops every single time.
Unlike dry rubs that sit on the surface, this marinade actually tenderizes the meat. The acid from apple cider vinegar breaks down proteins for fork-tender results.
I pair this with my Greek Potato Salad (prepped ahead) for a quick dinner. Or, I make my creamy mashed potatoes on the side for a classic dinner. Of course, my Texas style baked beans are always a hit. And check out all my pork recipes next!
Ingredients and substitutions
For the pork:
- Boneless pork chops - about half inch thick
- Olive oil (any cooking oil works fine)
For the marinade:
- Soy sauce - adds savory depth and tenderizes
- Dijon mustard - creates a flavor base
- Apple cider vinegar -tenderizes the meat
- Fresh garlic cloves - minced or use garlic powder
- Dried thyme - Italian seasoning is a perfect substitute
- Paprika - adds color and mild sweetness
- Black pepper -freshly ground tastes best
- Honey and a touch of brown sugar for a layer of sweetness
Swap ideas based on what you might have:
- Bone-in vs. boneless: Bone-in pork chops work perfectly with this marinade. Just add 2-3 minutes to the cook time for best results.
- Thick vs thin: Thick pork chops (1.5 inches) need about 12-14 minutes total cooking time. Thin pork chops under ¾ inch cook in just 6-8 minutes.
- Garlic options: Fresh garlic gives the boldest flavor but garlic powder works well too. Substitute about ½ teaspoon of powder per garlic clove.
- Sweetener swaps: Maple syrup and agave nectar work well. You can also swap in more brown sugar to replace some of the honey.
- Herb alternatives: Italian seasoning brings oregano and basil instead of thyme alone. Onion powder adds another savory layer if you want extra depth.
- Mustard substitute: Regular yellow mustard or a grainy brown mustard works if Dijon isn't available. It's just slightly milder in flavor.
How to make honey garlic air fryer pork chops
Step 1: Prepare the marinade In a small bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Add minced garlic, dried thyme, paprika, black pepper, and honey.
Whisk everything until the honey dissolves completely. The marinade should look smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the pork chops Pat your pork chops dry with a paper towel first. This helps the marinade stick better to the meat.
Add pork chops to the marinade, making sure they're completely coated. Massage the marinade into the meat with your hands.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For maximum tenderness and flavor, marinate for 2-4 hours.
Let chops sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking. This promotes even cooking throughout the thickest part of the chop.
Step 3: Preheat your air fryer Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Let it preheat for 3-5 minutes while you prep.
Preheating is crucial for getting that golden brown exterior. Don't skip this step for the best results.
Step 4: Cook the pork chops Remove chops from marinade and let excess drip off into the bowl. Too much marinade can cause smoking in your air fryer basket.
Place pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don't overlap or crowd them - cook in a second batch if needed.
- For 1-inch boneless chops: Cook 8-10 minutes at 375°F, flipping halfway through.
- For bone-in chops (1-inch): Cook 10-13 minutes at 375°F, flipping at the 6-minute mark.
- For thick chops (1.5 inches): Cook 12-14 minutes at 375°F, checking temperature frequently.
Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chop. You're looking for an internal temperature of 140°F (63°C).
Step 5: Rest and serve Transfer cooked pork chops to a clean plate immediately. Let them rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing.
Resting time lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat and allow them to come up to 145°F.
Drizzle any accumulated juices over the top for extra flavor.
Tips for perfect air fryer pork chops
Choose the right thickness: Thick pork chops between 1-1.5 inches will give you a baked like result. Thin pork chops under ¾ inch will be more crispy. Adjust cook time as needed.
Don't skip the marinade time: Even 30 minutes makes a huge difference in tenderness. For the juiciest pork chops, aim for 2-4 hours of marinating time.
Pat dry before marinating: Use a paper towel to remove excess moisture from the surface. This helps the marinade penetrate instead of sliding off.
Avoid overcrowding: Cook pork chops in a single layer with space around each piece. Hot air needs to circulate for that golden brown exterior.
Use a meat thermometer: This is the only way to guarantee perfectly cooked meat. Insert into the side of the pork chop for accurate readings.
Flip at the right time: Halfway through cooking is perfect for even browning. Use tongs to avoid piercing the meat and losing juices.
Temperature matters: Different air fryer models run at slightly different temperatures. If your chops are browning too fast, reduce to 360°F.
Ninja Foodi users: This Ninja Foodi recipe works with the same temperature and timing. Just use the air crisp function.
Let them rest: Those 3-5 minutes after cooking are non-negotiable for tender pork chops. Cutting immediately releases all the juices.
Save the marinade: Don't throw it away after removing the raw pork. Bring it to a boil for 2 minutes, then set to simmer to reduce and you've got a quick pan sauce.
FAQ
Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chop. You're looking for 145°F internal temperature for safe, juicy results.
You've either overcooked them past 145°F or used very thin chops. Always use a meat thermometer and choose thicker cuts.
Bone-in chops have slightly more flavor from the bone. Boneless pork chops cook faster and are easier to eat.
No, if you're short on time, skip the marinade. Rub oil on both sides of meat. Season chops with dry ingredients and include a sprinkle of salt. Air fry to perfection.
How to Store Leftover Pork chops
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure they're completely cooled before sealing the container.
Reheating options:
- In the air fryer: Heat at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until warmed through. This keeps them from drying out like the microwave does.
- In the oven: Place in a covered baking dish at 325°F. Heat for 8-10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- On the stovetop: Slice cold pork chops and warm in a skillet with a splash of broth. This works great for adding to grain bowls.
Freezing instructions:
- Wrap individual pork chops tightly in plastic wrap first. Then place wrapped chops in a freezer-safe airtight container or bag.
- Frozen pork chops stay good for up to 3 months. Label with the date so you remember when you made them.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Never thaw at room temperature as this promotes bacterial growth.
Creative ways to use leftovers:
- Slice cold leftover pork chops thin for sandwiches or wraps. The marinade flavors work perfectly with fresh veggies and mayo.
- Dice them up for fried rice or pasta dishes. They add protein without requiring additional cooking time.
- Chop for salad toppings on mixed greens. The savory flavor pairs beautifully with tangy vinaigrettes.
- Add to breakfast hash with potatoes and eggs. It's an easy way to use up what's left.
More Meaty Air Fryer Recipes
📖 Recipe
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Honey Garlic Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops about half inch thick
Marinade:
- 3 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves minced or grated
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
Instructions
- In a bowl or zip-top bag, whisk all marinade ingredients together. Add pork chops, coating well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2-4 hours.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes.
- Remove chops from the marinade, letting excess drip off-place in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Internal temperature should reach 140°F (63°C).
- Let pork chops rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing. Safe internal temperature is 145° F.
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