These crispy air fryer pork chops are a game changer! They cook quickly in just 20 minutes and turn out juicy on the inside with a wonderful crunch on the outside.
You’ll love how easy it is to make them—just season, pop them in the air fryer, and relax! I always pair them with a side salad for a tasty meal. Yum! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops work best for this recipe, but bone-in chops can be used for added flavor. Just be mindful that they might require a little extra cooking time.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a fantastic crunch! If you don’t have panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but they won’t be as crispy. Alternatively, crushed cornflakes can add a unique texture!
Parmesan Cheese: This is optional but highly recommended. It adds extra flavor and crispiness. If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or simply leave it out.
Spices: Customize the spices to your taste! Try adding Italian seasoning, or a bit of cayenne for heat. Just keep it balanced, so it doesn’t overpower the pork flavor.
How Do I Get a Perfectly Crispy Crust?
The key to a deliciously crispy crust is in the breading and how you cook it. Make sure to follow these steps:
- Pat the pork chops dry. This helps the coating stick better. Moisture is not your friend!
- Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the pork chops during breading. This ensures a thick, crunchy layer.
- Don’t skip the cooking spray! Spraying helps the breading brown and crisp up beautifully.
- Make sure the air fryer isn’t overcrowded. Leave space for the hot air to circulate around the pork chops.
- Flip halfway through cooking. This helps achieve an even, golden crust on both sides.
By following these tips, your pork chops will come out perfectly crispy every time! Enjoy the satisfying crunch with each bite.
Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops in 20 Minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra crispiness and flavor)
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 5 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 20 minutes. You’ll have crispy, juicy pork chops ready in no time!
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 gets it nice and hot for perfectly crispy pork chops!
2. Prepare the Breading Stations:
Set up three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese if you’re using it.
3. Dredge the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step helps the coating stick better. First, dredge each pork chop in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess flour. Then dip them into the beaten eggs, and finally coat them thoroughly with the panko breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the pork chops for a good crunch.
4. Spray for Crispiness:
Lightly spray both sides of the breaded pork chops with cooking spray or olive oil spray. This will help them get beautifully crispy while cooking.
5. Air Fry the Chops:
Place the pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If you’re cooking a lot, don’t overcrowd; cook them in batches for best results. Air fry them at 400°F for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, carefully flip the chops using tongs, spray the other side lightly with cooking spray, and cook for another 8 to 10 minutes. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and be golden brown and crispy.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once the pork chops are done cooking, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for 3 to 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you like, and serve with your favorite sides.
Enjoy your crispy, juicy pork chops that are ready in just 20 minutes!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops! Just keep in mind they may require a slightly longer cooking time. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work, though they won’t be as crispy. Crushed cornflakes or crushed crackers are great alternatives for an extra crunch!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Before Cooking?
Absolutely! You can marinate them for 30 minutes to overnight for added flavor. Just remember to pat them dry before breading to ensure the coating sticks well!
