These Easy Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops are a tasty way to enjoy a quick meal! With just a few simple ingredients, you get juicy, crispy chops that everyone will love.
I can’t help but smile when I make these because the air fryer does all the hard work! They are super simple and perfect for busy weeknights. Just season, air fry, and enjoy the yumminess! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can choose bone-in or boneless pork chops. I prefer boneless for ease, but bone-in adds more flavor. If pork isn’t your thing, chicken breasts work great too!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs give the chops that perfect crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can be used, but they might not be as crispy.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice, savory flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy taste without the milk!
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika add depth to the flavor. Feel free to mix things up! Italian seasoning or cayenne pepper could give a different twist.
Eggs & Milk: These help the coating stick to the pork chops. You can use dairy-free milk or egg substitutes if needed. A flaxseed egg works well too!
What’s the Best Way to Achieve a Crispy Coating?
Coating the pork chops for that crispy texture is simple but does require some attention. Here’s how to get it just right:
- After patting the pork chops dry, dip them in the egg mixture, making sure every spot is covered. This step is crucial for the breadcrumbs to stick.
- Press the pork chop firmly into the breadcrumb mixture. Don’t be shy! The more you press, the better the coating will adhere.
- Lightly spray the coated chops with cooking spray. This isn’t just for flavor; it ensures a golden, crispy finish as they cook in the air fryer.
These tips will help you achieve that perfect crunch every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick
For the Coating:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 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 the Egg Wash:
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
For Cooking:
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes approximately 5 minutes for preparation and about 12-15 minutes of cooking time. Plus, a few minutes for resting afterward. In total, you can have crispy, juicy pork chops on your table in around 25 minutes!
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 the pork chops cook evenly and become nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Coating Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This is where all the flavor comes from!
3. Make the Egg Wash:
In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. This egg wash will help the breadcrumbs stick to your pork chops.
4. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This ensures they are not too wet and that the coating sticks better.
5. Coat the Pork Chops:
First, dip each pork chop into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, press the pork chop into the breadcrumb mixture, covering both sides well. Don’t be shy—press down to help the nuggets stick!
6. Give it a Crisp Spray:
Lightly spray both sides of the coated pork chops with cooking spray or olive oil spray. This will help achieve that golden, crunchy texture we all love.
7. Air Fry the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they don’t overlap for even cooking. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle and makes for a juicy chop!
9. Garnish and Serve:
If desired, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and serve immediately. These pork chops are perfect on their own or with your favorite sides!
Enjoy your juicy, crispy air-fried pork chops. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
While fresh pork chops are best, you can use frozen ones! Just make sure to fully thaw them beforehand. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat them dry before coating to ensure the breading sticks properly.
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can work in a pinch. However, for maximum crunch, you can also use crushed cornflakes or even crushed crackers! Just ensure they are seasoned to match the flavor of the dish.
How to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to maintain their crispiness.
Can I Add Different Spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste. Italian seasoning, Cajun spice, or even some cayenne pepper for heat can work wonders. Adjust according to what flavor profiles you enjoy!
