These Easy Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops are juicy, tender, and oh-so-crispy! With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Honestly, the air fryer makes the chops so crispy that I can hardly resist sneaking bites while they cook. Pair them with a side salad, and you’ve got a lovely dinner! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are fantastic for flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless pork chops work too. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook faster!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These crispy Japanese breadcrumbs give a delightful crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can substitute, but the texture won’t be quite the same. You could also use crushed cornflakes for a unique twist!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice cheesy flavor. If you’re dairy-free or don’t have Parmesan, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or omit it altogether for a simpler crunch.
Spices: The garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika create a great flavor base. Feel free to adjust these to your taste. Adding a bit of cayenne pepper can bring some heat if you like spicy food!
What’s the Best Way to Get Your Pork Chops Extra Crispy?
Making sure your pork chops come out crispy involves a few simple steps. First, ensure they are well-coated with the breadcrumb mixture. This layer is what gives the chop its crunch!
- Make sure to pat the pork chops dry before coating them. Moisture can make it hard to get that nice crispy texture.
- Don’t skip the cooking spray; it helps the breadcrumbs crisp up beautifully.
- Cooking in a single layer allows hot air to circulate properly. If your air fryer is crowded, the chops may steam instead of crisp.
- Flipping halfway through ensures both sides get golden brown and crispy!
Lastly, letting the pork chops rest before serving gives the juices time to redistribute, so they stay juicy inside. Happy cooking! 🍽️
Easy Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp milk
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes in total. You’ll need around 5 minutes for prep, followed by about 12-15 minutes to cook in the air fryer. Allowing time for resting afterward is key for keeping your chops juicy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This only takes about 5 minutes and is crucial for getting those chops crispy.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until well combined. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick to the pork chops.
3. Mix the Breadcrumb Coating:
In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir them together to mix well.
4. Coat the Pork Chops:
Take each pork chop and dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess liquid drip off. Next, press the chop into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Press down gently to make sure the crumbs stick well.
5. Spray for Crispiness:
Lightly spray both sides of the coated pork chops with cooking spray or olive oil spray. This helps them get wonderfully crispy in the air fryer!
6. Air Fry the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be careful not to overcrowd—cook in batches if you need to. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature hits 145°F (63°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chops extra juicy. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if you like, and then enjoy your crispy, delicious dinner!
These air fryer pork chops are not only easy to make but also bring out a delightful crispy texture while keeping the meat tender and juicy. Perfect for weeknight dinners!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs can work in a pinch. You can also use crushed cornflakes or even ground almonds for a gluten-free option, but note that the texture will vary slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through, which will help the crust stay crispy.
Can I Make These Pork Chops Spicier?
Absolutely! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture to give them an extra kick. You can also marinate the pork chops in a spicy sauce before coating them for a bolder flavor!
