These Easy Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops are juicy on the inside and have a crunchy outside that everyone loves. It’s simple, quick, and needs just a few ingredients!
Who knew making pork chops could be this easy? I like to serve them with a side of veggies or mashed potatoes. You’ll want to make these again and again! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Choose bone-in or boneless, about 1 inch thick. Boneless chops cook faster, but bone-in often stay juicier. If you’re in a pinch, turkey cutlets could work for a lighter option.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These create that perfect crunch! You can swap them for regular breadcrumbs, but panko gives a lighter texture. Gluten-free breadcrumbs also work if needed.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory flavor and helps with browning. Grated Pecorino Romano makes an excellent substitute for a different twist. Nutritional yeast can work for a dairy-free option.
Eggs: They help the coating stick. If you’re avoiding eggs, use a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce for coating.
How Do You Get the Coating Extra Crispy?
For that desirable crispy coating, two key steps are crucial. First, ensure your pork chops are dry before breading. This helps the egg and breadcrumb mixture adhere better. Second, using panko breadcrumbs is a gamechanger! They create a lighter and crunchier crust.
- Dry the pork chops with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- After coating, drizzle a bit of olive oil or melted butter to enhance the crispiness during cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cooking in a single layer allows hot air to circulate around each chop evenly.
Easy Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
For the Coating:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Coating and Garnishing:
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 12-15 minutes to cook in the air fryer. Allow a little extra time for the pork chops to rest before serving. So, in total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This will help the pork chops cook evenly and get that nice crispy texture you’re looking for!
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is combined well. This mixture will create a crunchy and flavorful coating.
3. Beat the Eggs:
In another shallow bowl, crack and beat the eggs. This will be used to help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the pork chops.
4. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the coating adhere better. Moisture can make the coating soggy, and we want it crispy!
5. Coat the Pork Chops:
Dip each pork chop into the beaten eggs, making sure they’re well-coated. Let any excess egg drip off before moving to the next step.
6. Bread the Chops:
Next, press each pork chop into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring both sides are coated evenly. Make sure to press firmly so the crumbs stick well!
7. Add Some Oil:
Drizzle or brush the coated pork chops with olive oil or melted butter. This will help enhance the crispiness during air frying.
8. Place in the Air Fryer:
Carefully place the breaded pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Ensure that they don’t overlap; if you have too many, cook them in batches.
9. Air Fry the Chops:
Air fry the pork chops at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking. They’re done when the coating is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
10. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chops juicy!
11. Garnish and Serve:
If desired, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a lovely touch. Serve your crispy air fryer pork chops with your favorite sides, like veggies or mashed potatoes, and enjoy!
Enjoy your juicy, crispy air fryer pork chops with your favorite sides!
FAQ for Easy Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but be sure to fully thaw them first. Thawing overnight in the fridge is best. If you’re short on time, you can also use the microwave’s defrost function, but make sure they’re thoroughly thawed before breading for the best results.
Can I Substitute Chicken for Pork Chops?
Absolutely! This recipe can easily be adapted for chicken breasts or thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; chicken typically cooks a bit faster than pork and should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator 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 to maintain the crispiness.
What Sides Pair Well with These Pork Chops?
These air fryer pork chops are delicious served alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve with a simple gravy or apple sauce for added flavor!
