These Breaded Air Fryer Pork Chops are crispy outside and juicy inside, making them a tasty addition to any meal. You’ll love how easy they are to make with just a few simple ingredients!
I always enjoy the crunch of that golden layer! They pair perfectly with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. Trust me, your dinner guests will be impressed, and you won’t have to spend all day in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops work best here for tender juiciness. If you have bone-in chops, those will also work; you just might need a couple of extra minutes in the air fryer.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These provide a light and crispy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can be used, but the texture may not be as crunchy. You can also make your own by processing stale bread in a food processor.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice savory flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for similar cheesiness, but skip the cheesy coating if you’re avoiding dairy altogether.
Italian Seasoning: This is a delicious mix of herbs. If you don’t have it, a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme will also work great. Feel free to experiment with your favorite dried herbs!
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch on My Pork Chops?
To achieve that delightful crunch, the technique of breading is key. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Make sure to thoroughly coat the pork chops in the egg mixture first; this helps the breadcrumbs stick better.
- Press the pork chops firmly into the breadcrumb mix to ensure a good layer of crumbs stays attached.
- Don’t skip the cooking spray or olive oil spray! A light spritz before air frying helps the breadcrumbs crisp up nicely.
- Spread the pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overlapping can lead to uneven cooking.
Following these tips will lead to perfectly crispy and delicious pork chops every time!
How to Make Breaded Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional, for garnish and flavor)
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 12 minutes to cook. Make sure to let the cooked pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. In total, you’ll spend around 30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures that your pork chops will cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispy crust.
2. Prepare the Breading Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir it well to combine all the flavors.
3. Whisk the Eggs and Milk:
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until they are well blended. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick to your pork chops.
4. Bread the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry using paper towels. Take each pork chop and dip it into the egg mixture, making sure to let any excess drip off. Then, press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat it evenly on both sides.
5. Prepare for Air Frying:
Place the breaded pork chops on a plate or tray. Lightly spray both sides of the chops with cooking spray or olive oil spray. This will help them crisp up nicely while they cook.
6. Air Fry the Pork Chops:
Arrange the pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they don’t overlap—if necessary, cook them in batches. Air fry the pork chops at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, carefully remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This resting time helps keep them juicy.
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle the pork chops with fresh chopped rosemary for extra flavor. Serve them alongside your favorite sides, such as fresh greens or creamy mashed potatoes.
Enjoy your delicious, juicy, and crispy breaded air fryer pork chops! They are sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops! Just be aware that they may require a few extra minutes in the air fryer to ensure they’re fully cooked. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs can work as a substitute. However, the texture may be less crispy. You can also make your own panko by processing stale bread in a food processor until coarse.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the air fryer for about 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore their crispiness.
Can I Make These Pork Chops Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or ground almonds as a coating. Just ensure that all your other ingredients, like the Parmesan cheese and any seasonings, are also gluten-free.
