These crispy air fryer pork chops are a game changer! They come out golden and crunchy on the outside while staying juicy inside. Plus, they cook in no time!
Honestly, I can’t believe how quick and easy they are to make. Just seasoning them nicely and popping them in the air fryer is all it takes. Dinner done in a flash!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use either bone-in or boneless pork chops, but I prefer bone-in for extra flavor and juiciness. If you want a leaner option, try center-cut loin chops.
Flour: All-purpose flour works well, but if you’re gluten-free, you can substitute with gluten-free flour as a 1:1 option. It won’t alter the flavor much!
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love using panko for its extra crunchiness. If you can’t find it, regular breadcrumbs are fine, but your chop may not be as crispy.
Cheese: Parmesan adds wonderful flavor. You could easily substitute with Pecorino Romano or even skip cheese if you’re dairy-free.
Seasonings: Feel free to customize! Adding Italian seasoning or cayenne pepper can kick up the flavor. Experiment with what you enjoy most!
How Do You Get That Perfect Crunch?
Getting that crispy coating is all about preparation and technique. Here’s how to ensure every bite is crunchy:
- Make sure to dry the pork chops with paper towels before breading; moisture can make the coating soggy.
- Letting the breaded chops rest for a few minutes helps the coating stick better.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Air needs to circulate around the chops to create a crisp surface.
- Using cooking spray on the breaded chops is key. It helps them brown nicely without extra oil.
With these tips, your air fryer pork chops will be a hit every time! Enjoy cooking!
Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops – Quick & Easy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil spray)
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus around 10-12 minutes in the air fryer. After that, you’ll want to let the pork chops rest for about 3-5 minutes before serving. So, in total, you can have these delicious pork chops on your table in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures your pork chops start cooking right away!
2. Prepare the Coatings:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. In a second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better.
4. Dredging Time:
Coat each pork chop by first dipping it into the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs to coat completely. Lastly, press it into the breadcrumb and cheese mixture for a nice crunchy layer.
5. Let Them Rest:
Place the coated pork chops on a plate or tray and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the breading adhere better during cooking.
6. Cooking the Pork Chops:
Lightly spray both sides of each pork chop with cooking spray. This will help them brown nicely in the air fryer. Place the pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap. You may need to do this in batches based on the size of your air fryer.
7. Air Fry:
Air fry the pork chops at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure they cook evenly. They are ready when the coating is golden brown and their internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
8. Let Them Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired, and then serve immediately.
Enjoy your crispy, juicy pork chops with your favorite sides! They’re sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops in This Recipe?
No, it’s best to use fresh or thawed pork chops for this recipe. If you have frozen pork chops, make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or in cold water before dredging them.
How Do I Make These Pork Chops Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Both swaps will work well without compromising the overall flavor!
Can I Prep These Chops Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can bread the pork chops a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just remember to let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before air frying to ensure even cooking.
What Should I Serve with Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops?
These pork chops are versatile! You can serve them with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. They also pair well with a tangy apple sauce or sweet BBQ sauce for dipping!
