These Easy Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops are a total game changer! With a golden outside and juicy inside, they are super quick to make and taste amazing!
You won’t believe how easy it is to get that crispy goodness without all the oil. I love whipping these up for dinner, and they always impress my family. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops are easy to work with, but bone-in chops can add more flavor. If you want a leaner option, use pork loin or tenderloin. Just adjust cooking time slightly.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These create a fantastic crispy texture. If you can’t find panko, try regular breadcrumbs. For a gluten-free version, use crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nice umami flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika give great flavor. Feel free to mix in Italian seasoning or add some cayenne for heat!
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Extra Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crispy texture, follow these tips:
- Coat Well: Make sure to dip each chop well in the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off before dredging in panko for a great grip.
- Use Oil: A light brush of olive oil or melted butter on the chops helps the breadcrumbs crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
- Don’t Crowd the Basket: Arrange the chops in a single layer to allow hot air to circulate for even cooking. You can cook in batches if needed.
- Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (145°F is ideal); this keeps them juicy!
Easy Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
For the Coating:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Egg Wash:
- 2 large eggs
For Flavor:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 5 minutes to prep the ingredients and 10-12 minutes to cook the pork chops in the air fryer. In total, expect to spend around 15-20 minutes from start to finish for a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This usually takes about 5 minutes, so you can prepare your other ingredients while waiting.
2. Prepare the Egg Wash:
In a shallow bowl, whisk the two eggs until they are smooth. This will help your breadcrumbs stick to the pork chops.
3. Mix the Coating:
In another shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This blend will give your pork chops an amazing flavor and crunch!
4. Coat the Pork Chops:
Brush each pork chop lightly with olive oil or melted butter. This step is important for the coating to adhere and to achieve that crispy crust.
5. Dredge in Egg Wash and Breadcrumbs:
Dip each pork chop into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off. Then, coat them thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick well.
6. Arrange in Air Fryer:
Place the breaded pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overlapping. If needed, cook in batches for the best results.
7. Air Fry:
Air fry the pork chops at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through cooking! They should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Rest and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them even juicier!
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you’d like, garnish your crispy pork chops with fresh thyme sprigs for a lovely touch. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, crispy meal!
FAQ for Easy Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
While it’s best to use fresh or fully thawed pork chops for even cooking, you can use frozen pork chops. Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before proceeding with the recipe. Never cook frozen meat directly in the air fryer, as it will cook unevenly.
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs on hand, regular breadcrumbs work as well. For a gluten-free option, try crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs. They won’t be as crunchy as panko, but they’ll still add texture!
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, air fry them at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain that crispy texture, or microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Make These Pork Chops in the Oven Instead?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the breaded pork chops on a lined baking sheet for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through. This method yields great results as well!
