Breaded pork chops are a classic comfort food that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Whether you prefer frying or baking, making breaded pork chops at home is easy and rewarding. Here’s a friendly, step-by-step guide to help you create perfect breaded pork chops every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about ¾ to 1 inch thick)
– All-purpose flour
– Eggs
– Bread crumbs (seasoned or plain; Panko breadcrumbs work great for extra crunch)
– Seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs (like oregano or thyme), and grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– Cooking oil (vegetable, olive, or canola oil)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork Chops
Start by patting your pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better. You can gently pound them to an even thickness of about ¾ to 1 inch if needed.
Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station
You’ll need three shallow dishes or bowls:
– Flour: Season with salt and pepper.
– Egg wash: Beat 1 or 2 eggs with a splash of water.
– Breadcrumb mixture: Combine bread crumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, and Parmesan cheese if you like.
3. Bread the Pork Chops
– Dredge each pork chop in the flour, shaking off the excess.
– Dip it into the egg wash, coating it completely.
– Press the pork chop into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated on all sides.
4. Cooking Options
Pan-Frying (for a crispy golden crust)
– Heat about ½ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
– When the oil is hot, add the pork chops.
– Cook for 6-8 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
– Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Oven-Baking (for a lighter version)
– Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
– Lightly brown the breaded pork chops in a skillet with a tablespoon of oil for about 1 minute per side.
– Transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
– Bake for 12-15 minutes until they reach 145°F internally.
– Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Juicy, Crispy Pork Chops
– Don’t overcook! Pork chops are best when they reach 145°F internally and rest a few minutes.
– Use Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
– Add grated Parmesan and herbs to the breading for extra flavor.
– Marinate pork chops briefly in lemon juice or a splash of fish sauce for an added zing before breading.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your breaded pork chops with:
– Roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes
– Steamed or sautéed green beans, broccoli, or asparagus
– A fresh salad or coleslaw
– Lemon wedges and fresh herbs for garnish
Breaded pork chops make a satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights or special dinners. With this easy method, you’ll have crispy, juicy pork chops that everyone will love.
Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Perfectly breaded pork chops are crispy, juicy, and simple to make with just a few ingredients and easy steps. Give this recipe a try and savor the delicious results!