Country Fried Pork Chops are a tasty comfort food you’ll love! They’re juicy pork chops, breaded and fried until golden brown. Perfect with some gravy on top!
Nothing beats the crunch of that crispy coating. I like to serve them with mashed potatoes on the side because, let’s be honest, you need something to soak up all that yummy goodness! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Choose bone-in or boneless pork chops about 1/2 inch thick for juicy results. If you’re looking for a leaner option, use loin chops instead. For a different flavor, try chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian twist!
All-purpose Flour: This creates the crispy coating. If you want a gluten-free version, you could use rice flour or a gluten-free flour blend. I sometimes mix in cornmeal for extra crunch!
Seasonings: The combination of salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder adds great flavor. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste! If you don’t have cayenne, leave it out or use chili powder for a milder spice.
Eggs and Milk: This mixture helps the flour stick. You can substitute with buttermilk for more flavor, or use a plant-based milk and flaxseed meal to make it vegan-friendly.
Vegetable Oil: Use vegetable oil, but feel free to use canola oil or peanut oil for frying. My personal favorite is peanut oil for its higher smoke point!
How Do You Get the Perfect Crunch on Your Pork Chops?
Getting that perfect crunchy coating takes a little patience but it’s worth it! After seasoning and breading, it’s essential to let the pork chops rest a bit before frying. This helps the coating stick better.
- After breading, let the pork chops sit on a rack or plate for 10 minutes.
- Always make sure your oil is hot (about 350°F) before adding the pork chops. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this can lower the oil temperature and make them soggy instead of crispy. Fry in batches if necessary.
Following these tips will help you achieve that delicious, golden crust every time!
Country Fried Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pork chops (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- Vegetable oil or shortening, for frying (about 1 to 2 cups)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a total of about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Breading Station:
Start by gathering everything you need. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). In another bowl, whisk the eggs and milk until well combined. This will be your breading station!
2. Dry the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This is super important because it helps the breading stick better. Nobody wants soggy pork chops!
3. Bread the Pork Chops:
Now it’s time to coat those chops! Dip each pork chop first into the flour mixture, covering all sides. Then, go for a dip in the egg mixture, and finally back into the flour mixture one more time. Make sure to press the flour onto the pork to create a nice, thick coating. Set the breaded chops aside on a plate.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large heavy skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil or shortening over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot (about 350°F or 175°C) for frying. If you have a food thermometer, it really helps to check!
5. Fry the Pork Chops:
Carefully place the breaded pork chops into the hot oil. Be sure not to crowd the pan; if needed, fry in batches. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and delicious, and check that their internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Drain the Excess Oil:
Once cooked, transfer the fried chops to a plate lined with paper towels. This helps soak up any extra oil, keeping them crispy!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your country fried pork chops hot, and feel free to add some gravy, mashed potatoes, or your favorite sides. Enjoy this comforting, crispy dish!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops can add even more flavor and tenderness to your dish. Just make sure they are cooked through, as bone-in chops may take a minute longer to cook fully.
What Oil Should I Use for Frying?
You can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil for frying. Peanut oil has a higher smoke point, which makes it a great option for frying. Avoid using olive oil, as it can burn at high temperatures.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can bread the pork chops in advance and refrigerate them for a few hours before frying. This can help the coating stick even better! Just remember to bring them to room temperature before frying for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a hot oven or on a skillet for a few minutes to maintain their crispiness.
