These crispy fried pork chops are a true treat, fried to golden perfection! They’re juicy on the inside and have a crunchy coating that makes every bite delicious.
If you’re like me, you might just warn everyone to stay away until I’ve had my fill! 😄 A quick dip in seasoned flour and a hot skillet is all you need for a wonderful meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are great for frying. If you prefer a leaner option, use boneless pork loin chops. Bone-in chops could also work, just adjust cooking time.
Flour: All-purpose flour is usually the best choice for coating, but whole wheat flour can be a healthier alternative. Just know it may change the texture slightly.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a fantastic crunch! If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs can work, though they won’t be quite as crispy. Try crushed cornflakes or even crushed crackers as a fun swap!
Parmesan Cheese: Adding grated Parmesan enhances flavor but is optional. Nutritional yeast can be a great vegan substitute if you want to keep the cheesiness without the dairy.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Crispy?
To achieve that ideal crunchy coating, focus on your preparation and frying method:
- Make sure to pat the pork chops dry before breading. This helps the coating stick better.
- When breading, follow the order: flour, egg, then breadcrumbs. This layering locks in that crisp.
- Heat the oil adequately before adding the chops; too cool oil makes them greasy.
- Avoid crowding the pan during frying; this helps maintain the temperature and keeps them from steaming.
Finally, let them drain on paper towels to catch any excess oil. This will keep them crispy until served!
Crispy Fried Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 to 6 boneless pork chops, about 1/2 inch thick
For the Dredging Station:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Coating:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 cup regular breadcrumbs (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for flavor)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. In total, you should set aside around 35 minutes to make these delicious crispy fried pork chops. Perfect for any weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Set Up Your Breading Stations:
Start by gathering three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. In the second bowl, beat the two large eggs. In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs (if using), and Parmesan cheese.
2. Prep the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important as it helps the breading stick better, ensuring that your chops turn out super crispy!
3. Dredge the Chops:
Begin the breading process by taking each pork chop and first coating it in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure to shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the chop into the beaten eggs, coating it completely. Lastly, press the chop into the breadcrumb mixture, covering both sides thoroughly. Set each breaded chop aside on a plate.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable or canola oil over medium heat until it’s hot but not smoking. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of bread; if it sizzles right away, you’re good to go!
5. Fry the Pork Chops:
Carefully add 2 to 3 pork chops to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chops for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
6. Drain and Serve:
Once the pork chops are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil. Repeat the frying process with the remaining chops.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious crispy fried pork chops hot, alongside steamed broccoli and mashed sweet potatoes for a hearty meal. Enjoy the crunch and flavor of every bite!
Bon appétit!
FAQ About Crispy Fried Pork Chops
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Yes! Bone-in pork chops work great too. Just be mindful to adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook through compared to boneless chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.
What Oil Should I Use for Frying?
You can use vegetable oil or canola oil for frying, as both have a high smoke point and are suitable for deep frying. Feel free to use peanut oil if you want a slightly different flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free crispy fried pork chops, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Just ensure your seasonings are also gluten-free.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a hot skillet briefly on medium heat to help maintain their crispiness.
