These breaded air fryer pork chops are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making dinner easy and fun! They’re ready in no time and require just a few simple ingredients.
What’s great is that you can enjoy a deliciously crunchy chop without the mess of frying! I love serving them with a side of veggies for a colorful plate. Yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops are great for even cooking, but bone-in chops work too. If you’re watching fat intake, opt for loin chops instead of shoulder chops for leaner meat.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend using panko for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs are just fine. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can also be used if necessary. You might also blend up some crackers as a tasty alternative!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Another option is Grana Padano.
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powder enhance the flavor nicely. Feel free to add your favorite spices like Italian seasoning or cayenne for a kick. Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings according to your taste!
How Do I Achieve a Crispy Coating on My Pork Chops?
Getting that golden, crispy coating is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by patting the pork chops dry. This helps the breading stick better.
- Use the three-step breading method: flour, egg, and then breadcrumbs. Make sure to shake off excess flour and fully coat in the egg.
- For an extra crunch, do a double dip: Repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps again.
- Don’t skip the cooking spray! Lightly spray helps to crisp up the coating in the air fryer.
- Keep the chops in a single layer in the air fryer. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of crisping.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly crispy and juicy pork chops every time!
Breaded Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
For the Breading:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 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:
- 2 large eggs
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
For Serving:
- Fresh greens or side salad (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 5 minutes to prep and 12-15 minutes to cook, making your total time around 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner!
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 helps ensure those pork chops cook evenly and get that nice crispy texture.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Get three shallow bowls ready. In the first one, place the flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until well mixed. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix everything together so it’s ready for coating!
3. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This helps the breading stick better.
4. Bread the Pork Chops:
Now it’s time to coat the chops! First, dredge each pork chop in the flour, shaking off any excessive flour. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs ensuring it’s completely coated. Finally, press each chop into the breadcrumb mixture, covering it well. If you want a thicker crust, repeat the egg and breadcrumb process one more time!
5. Spray for Crispiness:
Lightly spray both sides of each breaded pork chop with cooking spray or olive oil spray. This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crunch!
6. Air Fry the Pork Chops:
Next, place the pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Close the air fryer and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let Them Rest:
Once they’re cooked, remove the chops and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps the juices settle, keeping your pork chops nice and juicy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the breaded pork chops with fresh greens or your favorite side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your crispy, juicy pork chops with minimal oil and maximum flavor!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly. Bone-in chops may take a few extra minutes to cook through. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, crushed cornflakes, crackers, or even ground oats can work well as a substitute. For a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer for a few minutes to get them crispy again, or warm them gently in the microwave.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can bread the pork chops ahead of time and keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. Just make sure to cook them fresh before serving for the best texture!
