These crispy air fryer pork chops are a real treat! They cook up golden and crunchy on the outside, while staying juicy on the inside. Yum!
I mean, who can resist that crunch? They’re perfect for a quick dinner, and cleanup is a breeze. I love to serve them with some mashed potatoes on the side—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use bone-in or boneless chops, about 1-inch thick. Bone-in chops are juicier, but boneless chops cook faster. If you’re looking for a lean option, try using pork loin chops.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a great crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work too, but they won’t be quite as crispy. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds flavor and crunch. You could substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option, which is also great for adding umami!
Spices: Garlic powder and paprika bring a nice flavor to the chops. Feel free to use onion powder or Italian seasoning if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Crunch in the Air Fryer?
Getting that perfect crispy texture is all about the coating process and cooking method. Here’s how to do it:
- First, dry your pork chops well with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better.
- Coat them in egg, then press them into the breadcrumb mixture firmly to ensure it sticks. You want a good amount of crumbs on each chop.
- Brush the chops lightly with oil or melted butter before air frying. This extra fat helps brown the coating nicely.
- Arrange the chops in a single layer in the air fryer to allow the hot air to circulate, creating that crispy finish.
- Don’t skip the flipping halfway through! It helps achieve an even golden color.
Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (plus extra fresh thyme for garnish, optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (to brush)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 12-15 minutes to cook in the air fryer. You’ll spend just a few moments coating the pork chops, and then let the air fryer do the magic. In total, you can have these delicious crispy pork chops ready in about 25-30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is important for getting those pork chops nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until they’re well combined. This is what will help the breadcrumb coating stick to the chops.
3. Make the Coating:
In another shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. This mix is going to give your pork chops that delicious flavor and crunch.
4. Prep the Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, pat the pork chops dry. This helps the coating adhere better and gives you that perfect crunch!
5. Coat the Pork Chops:
Take each pork chop and dip it in the egg mixture, making sure it’s coated well. After that, press each chop into the breadcrumb mixture, covering both sides thoroughly. Ensure you get a good layer of crumbs on there!
6. Add Extra Crispiness:
For a little extra crunch, lightly brush both sides of the coated chops with olive oil or melted butter. It adds flavor and helps with browning.
7. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Place the pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be careful not to overcrowd them, as this can prevent them from getting crispy.
8. Cook the Pork Chops:
Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. Your pork chops should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
9. Let Them Rest:
Once they’re done cooking, remove the chops from the air fryer and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy!
10. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a lovely presentation, and then serve those crispy pork chops right away. Enjoy!
Dig into your juicy, flavorful, and perfectly crispy air fryer pork chops. They’re sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but it’s best to thaw them completely before cooking. To thaw quickly, place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about an hour. Once thawed, pat them dry and follow the recipe as usual.
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs, although they won’t be quite as crispy. For a gluten-free option, try gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a similar texture.
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 back in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore the crispy texture. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but be sure to use a low setting to avoid drying them out.
Can I Make These Pork Chops Spicier?
Absolutely! For a kick, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also marinate the pork chops in a spicy sauce before breading them for extra flavor!
