I have to admit, pork chops sometimes get a bad rap for being dry or bland, but when you add a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze and cook them in an air fryer, everything changes. This recipe has become one of my go-to meals when I want something flavorful but fast. The air fryer crisps the outside just right while keeping the inside juicy and tender, and that glossy teriyaki sauce seals the deal with amazing flavor.
What I love most about this dish is how easy it is to make but still feels like something special. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, these teriyaki pork chops hit the spot. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze since the air fryer does most of the work!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Pork Chops: I use bone-in pork chops that are about 1 inch thick for the best flavor and juiciness. The bone helps keep the meat tender during cooking, and the air fryer crisps up the edges beautifully.
Teriyaki Sauce: The star of the show! You can use store-bought teriyaki sauce for convenience or make your own with soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. This sauce adds a wonderful balance of sweet and savory flavors that soak right into the pork.
Garlic Powder: A simple but essential seasoning that gives the pork chops a subtle, aromatic kick without overpowering the teriyaki glaze.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a little heat and complexity, complementing the sweetness of the teriyaki.
Olive Oil: A light coating of olive oil helps the pork chops brown nicely in the air fryer and prevents sticking. Plus, it adds a subtle richness to the dish.
Ingredients List
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How to Make Air Fryer Teriyaki Pork Chops
Prepare the Pork Chops
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better in the air fryer. Then, brush both sides lightly with olive oil and sprinkle garlic powder and black pepper evenly over them.
Marinate with Teriyaki Sauce
Place the pork chops in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the teriyaki sauce over the chops and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to an hour if you have the time). This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3 to 5 minutes. Preheating ensures the pork chops start cooking immediately and develop a nice crust.
Cook the Pork Chops
Arrange the pork chops in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly juicy pork.
Glaze and Finish
In the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the remaining teriyaki sauce on both sides of the pork chops. This gives them a shiny, sticky glaze. Once done, let them rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t skip drying the pork chops before seasoning to ensure they crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking—145°F is the safe temperature for juicy pork.
- Marinate longer if possible—this boosts the flavor dramatically. Even 30 minutes makes a big difference.
- If your air fryer basket is small, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can cause uneven cooking.
- Feel free to add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top for garnish and extra flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best texture, as leftovers can dry out.
FAQs
Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes! Boneless pork chops work well too, but adjust the cooking time slightly since they tend to cook faster.
What can I serve with air fryer teriyaki pork chops?
They pair beautifully with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Can I make my own teriyaki sauce?
Absolutely! A quick mix of soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and a bit of cornstarch for thickening works great.
How do I reheat leftover pork chops without drying them out?
Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3-4 minutes, or until warmed through.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Check your teriyaki sauce label since some brands contain gluten. You can use tamari sauce as a gluten-free alternative.