These crispy air fryer pork chops are super easy to make and pack a punch of flavor! With a golden brown crust and juicy inside, they’re perfect for a quick dinner.
I love how they cook so fast in the air fryer—no need for messy oil splatters. Just season, pop them in, and in no time, you’ve got a tasty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Use boneless pork chops for even cooking and tenderness. If you prefer, bone-in chops can work, but make sure to adjust cooking time.
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love panko for its extra crunch. If you don’t have it, regular breadcrumbs will do, but the texture won’t be as crispy. You could even try crushed cornflakes for a unique twist!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a lovely flavor and helps with crisping. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy taste. Just use less, as it’s more concentrated.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and smoked paprika really enhance the flavor. Feel free to swap paprika for Italian seasoning for a different vibe, or even add some heat with cayenne pepper!
How Do I Get the Best Crunch on My Air Fryer Pork Chops?
The breading process is crucial for that delicious crunch! Here’s how to ensure it sticks well and gets crisp:
- Pat the pork chops dry before seasoning. This helps the coating stick better.
- Dredge the chops in flour first. This creates a base layer that helps the egg and breadcrumbs adhere.
- Don’t skip the egg step! It acts as a glue for the breadcrumbs.
- Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chops. This extra step makes the crust thicker and crunchier.
- Spray with cooking oil before air frying. This helps the breading crisp up nicely without needing a lot of oil.
Following these tips will give you that mouthwatering crispiness. Enjoy cooking!
Crispy 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 garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Cooking spray or oil mister
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, and about 16-18 minutes of cooking time. With just a bit of effort, you’ll have delicious, crispy pork chops ready to enjoy!
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 ensures your pork chops will cook evenly and get that crispiness you want.
2. Prepare the Coating Mixture:
In a shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix them together so they’re well combined and ready to coat your chops.
3. Whisk the Eggs:
In a separate bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them until they’re smooth. This egg wash will help the breadcrumbs stick to the pork chops.
4. Set Up for Dredging:
Place the flour in a third shallow dish. This will be the first step in getting your chops ready for that delicious breading.
5. Season the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. Lightly season them with salt and pepper on both sides.
6. Dredge the Pork Chops:
Start with one pork chop and dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the whisked eggs, making sure it’s fully coated. Next, press the chop into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides thoroughly. For extra crispiness, gently press the crumbs onto the meat!
7. Spray with Cooking Oil:
Once all your pork chops are breaded, lightly spray both sides with cooking spray. This will help them achieve that beautiful golden crust when air frying.
8. Air Fry the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding, as this can prevent the chops from getting crispy. If the basket isn’t large enough, cook in batches.
9. Cooking Time:
Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes. After that, flip the pork chops over and continue cooking for another 6-8 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
10. Let Them Rest:
When done, carefully remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
If you like, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a nice touch. Slice the chops and serve them hot with your favorite sides. Enjoy your crispy, juicy air fryer pork chops!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops! Just be aware that cooking time may need to be extended by a few minutes, as bone-in cuts generally take longer to cook through. Make sure to check the internal temperature for doneness.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can substitute regular breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes. The texture may be slightly different, but they will still give you a nice crispy coating!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through to maintain their crispiness.
Can I Adjust the Seasoning to My Taste?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices and herbs to suit your preference. Try adding some chili powder for heat, or swap out the thyme for Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile!
