These easy crispy air fryer pork chops are juicy on the inside and perfectly crunchy on the outside. They’re super quick to make, so you can enjoy a tasty meal without all the fuss!
I love how my air fryer gives these chops that golden crust without deep frying. Pair them with your favorite veggies for a satisfying dinner. Trust me, they will disappear fast! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops work best for crispy results, but you could use bone-in chops if preferred. Just increase the cooking time slightly.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a light and crispy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will do, but they won’t be as crunchy.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds flavor and a nice crust. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powder add great flavor. Feel free to swap them for your favorite spices, like Italian seasoning or cayenne for some heat.
Cooking Spray: I like using olive oil spray for a light coating. Alternatively, you can brush the chops with oil for a more even coverage.
How Can I Get My Pork Chops Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy crust is key with air fryer pork chops. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to preheat your air fryer! This helps the coating crisp up right away.
- Pound the pork chops slightly to ensure even cooking.
- Coat the chops thoroughly: first in flour, then in egg, and finally in the breadcrumb mix. Press down firmly as you coat them to help the breadcrumbs stick.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; give each chop space for the hot air to circulate evenly.
- Spray a bit of cooking oil on each side before cooking, as this promotes browning and crispiness.
Easy Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 12-15 minutes cooking time in the air fryer. So, in roughly 25-30 minutes, you can enjoy delicious, crispy pork chops!
Easy Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will take about 5 minutes. Preheating is important to help crisp the pork chops.
2. Prepare the Dry Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture will create a flavorful and crunchy coating!
3. Beat the Eggs:
In another shallow bowl, crack and beat the eggs. This will help our breadcrumbs stick to the pork chops.
4. Set Up for Dredging:
In a third shallow bowl, add the flour. You’ll use this to dust the pork chops before dipping them in the egg and breadcrumb mixture—all about that crispy texture!
5. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This step ensures the coating sticks well.
6. Dredge the Pork Chops:
Start by dredging each pork chop in the flour. Shake off any excess flour; we want a light coat. Next, dip the floured chops in the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated. Finally, press them firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure they are evenly covered.
7. Spray the Coated Chops:
Lightly spray both sides of the breaded pork chops with cooking spray or olive oil spray. This will help them get nice and golden brown while cooking.
8. Air Fry the Pork Chops:
Carefully place the pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding; you may need to do this in batches. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and are crispy and golden.
9. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy!
10. Garnish and Serve:
If desired, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a lovely touch. Serve hot and enjoy!
Enjoy your crispy, juicy air fryer pork chops!
FAQ
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that bone-in pork chops may require a slightly longer cooking time, about 15-20 minutes, so check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No worries! You can substitute regular breadcrumbs, but the chops may not be as crispy. For a similar crunch, try crushing some crackers or using cornmeal.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to help regain their crispiness.
Can I Freeze the Breaded Pork Chops Before Cooking?
Absolutely! You can freeze the breaded chops before air frying. Just place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready to cook, no need to thaw—just air fry them for a few extra minutes until cooked through!
