Easy Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe

Category: Pork Recipes

These Easy Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops are golden and delicious! Juicy inside with a crunchy outside, they bring dinner to the next level without fussing over a hot stove.

Cooking them in the air fryer makes everything simple and fun! I love that I can enjoy crispy pork chops with less oil and mess. Plus, they’re ready in no time—perfect for busy days!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pork Chops: Bone-in or boneless pork chops are fine. Boneless are easier to handle but bone-in can add flavor. If you prefer turkey cutlets, they work as a great lean substitute too.

Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives these chops extra crunch. You can use regular breadcrumbs, but the texture won’t be as crispy. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free panko.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best, but pre-grated can work in a pinch. Nutritional yeast is a good dairy-free alternative if you’re avoiding cheese.

Eggs: Eggs help the breadcrumbs stick. For a vegan option, use a flaxseed meal mixed with water or unsweetened applesauce, which can help bind the crumbs.

How Do I Achieve Perfectly Crispy Pork Chops in the Air Fryer?

The air fryer is an excellent tool for achieving crispy pork chops without using too much oil. Here’s how to get them just right:

  • Preheat your air fryer properly to ensure even cooking.
  • Make sure to pat the pork chops dry before coating them. This helps the breading stick better.
  • Don’t skip the egg dip; it really helps the crumbs adhere and creates that desired crunch.
  • Arrange the chops in a single layer without overlapping for uniform cooking and browning.
  • Flip halfway through to ensure both sides are evenly crispy.
  • Let them rest a few minutes after cooking; this allows juices to redistribute for more tender meat.

Easy Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe

Easy Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 12-15 minutes to cook. Including preheating the air fryer, expect to spend around 20-25 minutes total. Quick and easy for a delightful meal!

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 to ensure that your pork chops cook evenly and get nice and crispy.

2. Prepare the Breading Mixture:

In a shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This will create a flavorful and crunchy coating for your pork chops.

3. Beat the Eggs:

In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs well. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to the pork chops. Make sure you have everything ready to go for easy assembly!

4. Get the Pork Chops Ready:

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the breading stick better and gives you a nice crispy texture.

5. Coat the Pork Chops:

Dip each pork chop into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Next, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly. Make sure to gently press so the crumbs adhere well.

6. Add Some Moisture:

Lightly brush or spray the coated pork chops with olive oil or melted butter. This is key for achieving that perfect crispy finish without too much oil.

7. Arrange in the Air Fryer:

Place the pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be careful not to overlap them; you want them to cook evenly. If you have more chops than fit, you can do them in batches.

8. Air Fry the Pork Chops:

Cook the pork chops for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they’re golden brown all over. Check them for doneness; they should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

9. Let Them Rest:

Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chops even more delicious.

10. Serve and Enjoy:

Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if you’d like, then serve your crispy, juicy pork chops alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy your meal!

These pork chops are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. Enjoy crispy, juicy pork chops with minimal effort and oil!

Easy Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?

Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will add extra flavor to your dish. Just be aware that they may require a minute or two longer to cook, so check that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work. However, for the same crunchy texture, try crushed cornflakes or even grind up some crackers as a substitute!

How to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain some crispiness.

Can I Make These Pork Chops Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can bread the pork chops and keep them in the refrigerator for a few hours before cooking. Just be sure to cook them shortly before you plan to serve them for the best texture!

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment