These crispy air fryer pork chops are a real treat! They come out golden and juicy without all the oil, making them a healthier option. Yum!
Cooking them is super easy—just season and air fry! I like to pair them with some mashed potatoes and veggies for a delightful dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops work best here, around 1 inch thick, for even cooking. If you’d like to try bone-in chops, just adjust the cooking time to ensure they cook through.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a great crunch! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can substitute, but the texture might be a bit softer.
Parmesan Cheese: I love adding Parmesan for extra flavor. You can switch it up with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a lovely depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even a dash of chili powder can do, just note the flavor will change a bit.
How Do You Ensure the Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
The key to juicy pork chops is in the preparation and cooking time. Start by patting them dry to help with browning. Dredge them in flour, which creates a barrier that helps keep moisture in, and then the egg and breadcrumb coating locks it in further.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer; give each chop space so they crisp up nicely.
- Keep an eye on cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C). This prevents overcooking, which can lead to dryness.
- Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute juices for a tender bite.
Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
For Breading:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Spraying:
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 5 minutes to prepare and around 16-18 minutes to cook. You’ll have crispy, juicy pork chops ready in less than half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This should take about 5 minutes and ensures your pork chops start cooking immediately when placed inside.
2. Set Up the Breading Station:
In three shallow bowls, prepare your breading setup:
– In the first bowl, add the flour.
– In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until smooth.
– In the third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, pat the pork chops dry to remove excess moisture. This step helps them crisp up nicely!
4. Dredge the Chops:
First, coat each pork chop in flour, shaking off the excess. Then, dip the chop into the egg mixture, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, press the pork chop into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated on both sides.
5. Spray for Extra Crispiness:
Lightly spray each coated pork chop with cooking spray or olive oil spray. This helps achieve that lovely golden color.
6. Air Fry the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overlapping. This helps them cook evenly. Cook for 10 minutes, then carefully flip each one over and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes. They are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the coating is golden brown.
7. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps the juices settle. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if you like, and serve warm!
These crispy air fryer pork chops are sure to be a hit at your dinner table—enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! If you prefer bone-in pork chops, just be aware that they might require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Can I Make These Pork Chops Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Everything else remains the same, and you’ll still enjoy that crispy goodness!
What Should I Do If My Pork Chops Are Thick?
If your pork chops are thicker than 1 inch, you may need to increase the cooking time. I recommend checking the internal temperature after the initial cooking period and then adding more time as needed, cooking in small increments until they reach 145°F (63°C).
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to maintain their crispiness!
