Pork chops cooking times
How long to cook pork chops: 4–5 min per side pan-fried, 5–7 min per side under the grill, 4–6 min per side on the barbecue and 15–20 min in the oven at 200°C (180°C fan). Every way to cook it is below, with the temperature and how to tell it’s done.
How long to cook pork chops
Times are for chops 2–2.5 cm thick.
| Method | Time | Heat | How |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pan-fry | 4–5 min per side | over a medium-high heat | Render the fat edge first, holding the chop on its side with tongs. |
| Grill | 5–7 min per side | under a hot grill | – |
| Barbecue | 4–6 min per side | over medium-hot direct heat | – |
| Oven | 15–20 min | 200°C (180°C fan), 400°F, gas 6 | Or sear in the pan for 2 minutes per side and finish in the oven for 8–10 minutes. |
| Air fryer | 10–14 min | 200°C (400°F) | Turn halfway. |
Also see: Pork cooking time (loin, shoulder and belly, with crackling).
Before you start
Snip the fat at intervals so the chop doesn’t curl. Pat dry and season.
How to tell it’s done
Just cooked, with juices running clear and a blush of pink at most. Overcooked chops are dry.
Food safety: Pork is safe at 63°C (145°F) with a 3-minute rest (USDA); for no pink at all, take it to 70°C (160°F).
Questions
How long to pan-fry pork chops?
4–5 min per side over a medium-high heat. Render the fat edge first, holding the chop on its side with tongs.
How long to grill pork chops?
5–7 min per side under a hot grill.
How long to barbecue pork chops?
4–6 min per side over medium-hot direct heat.
How long to cook pork chops in the oven?
15–20 min at 200°C (180°C fan), 400°F, gas 6. Or sear in the pan for 2 minutes per side and finish in the oven for 8–10 minutes.
How long to cook pork chops in an air fryer?
10–14 min at 200°C (400°F). Turn halfway.
Times are a guide for typical home portions: ovens, air fryers, microwaves and the size of what you’re cooking all vary. Check meat, poultry and fish with a thermometer before serving. Safe temperatures follow USDA and UK Food Standards Agency guidance, last checked 11 November 2026.