This Crispy Fried Pork Chops recipe brings you juicy meat coated in a golden, crunchy crust. It’s a comfort food favorite that’s quick to make!
Honestly, who can resist that crispy coating? I sometimes have to remind myself to save some for dinner! 🍽️ Pair these chops with mashed potatoes or veggies for a perfect meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are perfect for this recipe because they cook evenly and stay juicy. If you prefer bone-in options, that works too! Just adjust your cooking time slightly for thicker cuts.
Flour: All-purpose flour gives the pork chops a great base for the coating. If you’re gluten-free, try using a gluten-free all-purpose mix instead!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These special crumbs bring extra crunch! If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs can work, but the texture won’t be as crispy. You can also crush up cornflakes as a unique alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: This is optional but adds a lovely flavor. If you’re dairy-free, you can skip it or use a dairy-free cheese alternative for a similar taste.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crispy Coating?
The key to achieving that ideal crispy coating lies in the multi-step breading process and allowing the chops to rest before frying. Here’s how to nail it:
- First, drying the chops is essential. Pat them with paper towels to remove moisture, ensuring the breading sticks smoothly.
- Give the pork chops a good shake after each step in the dredging process. This removes excess flour and ensures a thin, even coating.
- Let the breaded chops sit for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the coating to adhere better while frying.
- Fry the chops in hot oil but avoid overcrowding the pan. This keeps the temperature consistent and helps achieve that golden crunch.
Letting them rest after cooking is also super important—it keeps them juicy and delicious! Enjoy your meal!
Crispy Fried Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 to 6 boneless pork chops (about 1/2 inch thick)
For the Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Egg Mixture:
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
For the Bread Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 35 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 15 minutes preparing the pork chops, then another 15-20 minutes for frying and resting. It’s a quick and simple dish that tastes like it took hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is really important; a dry surface helps the coating stick better and gives you that wonderful crispy texture!
2. Make the Seasoned Flour:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir the mixture well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
3. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together until they are well blended. This will be your binding mixture to help the breadcrumbs stick to the pork chops!
4. Prepare the Bread Crust:
In another bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese (if you’re using it). The panko will give you that extra crunch that everyone loves.
5. Dredge the Pork Chops:
Take each pork chop and first coat it in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any extra to drip off, before finally rolling it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the crumbs onto the pork chop to ensure they stick well.
6. Rest the Coated Pork Chops:
Place the coated pork chops on a plate or wire rack, and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the coating adhere better while frying so it doesn’t fall off.
7. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. You know the oil is hot enough when a breadcrumb dropped in it sizzles right away (~350°F).
8. Fry the Pork Chops:
Carefully add the pork chops to the hot oil. Fry them in batches if necessary to avoid crowding. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and crispy. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 145°F for safety and juiciness!
9. Drain and Rest:
Once cooked, transfer the pork chops to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting time helps keep the juices in!
Enjoy your crispy fried pork chops with delicious sides like steamed broccoli and creamy mashed sweet potatoes! Bon appétit!
FAQ for Crispy Fried Pork Chops
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will add more flavor, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture won’t be as crispy. Another great alternative is crushed cornflakes for an extra crunch!
Can I Make the Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
It’s best to fry the pork chops right before serving for maximum crispiness. However, you can prepare the breadcrumbs and coating ahead of time. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to fry!
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to help retain their crispiness!
