These crispy air fryer pork chops are super easy to make and taste amazing! With a golden outside and juicy inside, they’re perfect for busy weeknights.
I love how quickly they cook, and my family can’t get enough of that crunch. You’ll probably end up making these every week, just like I do! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are juicier, but boneless are easier to eat. If you can’t find either, thick-cut pork loin chops work well too. Just ensure they are at least 1 inch thick for the best texture.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give an amazing crunch! If you only have regular breadcrumbs, use those, but the texture won’t be as crispy. For a gluten-free option, try gluten-free panko or almond flour.
Seasonings: I love the flavor from paprika, garlic, and onion powder. You can adjust the spices to your liking! If you want a different kick, try Italian seasoning or chili powder in place of the cayenne.
Cooking Spray: A light spray of oil helps the coating crisp up beautifully. If you prefer, you can brush a small amount of olive oil or melted butter over the chops instead.
What’s the Best Way to Coat the Pork Chops?
Coating your pork chops evenly is key to getting that crispy exterior. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to pat the pork chops dry before coating. This helps the breading stick better.
- Dredge in flour first; this creates a barrier that keeps the moisture in while the outside crisps up.
- Dip in eggs next to help the breadcrumbs adhere, then coat well in panko. Press down gently for an even layer.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Leaves space for heat circulation, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.
With these tips, you’ll achieve perfectly crispy pork chops every time! Enjoy your meal!
Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
For the Breading:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
For the Coating:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray or a little oil for spraying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook. So, in just about 25 minutes, you’ll have crispy, delicious pork chops ready to serve!
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 step is important because it helps the pork chops cook evenly and get nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Breading:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs until well mixed. Set aside your panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
3. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps the breading stick better. Next, take each pork chop and dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure to shake off any excess flour.
4. Coat the Chops:
Dip the floured pork chop into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat the pork chop thoroughly with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently so they stick well.
5. Air Fry the Pork Chops:
Arrange the breaded pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd them. Lightly spray both sides with cooking spray for extra crispiness. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the coating is golden brown.
6. Rest and Serve:
Carefully remove the chops from the air fryer and let them rest for around 3-5 minutes. This helps the juices settle and keeps them juicy! Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy your crispy, juicy pork chops!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed pork chops for even cooking and better texture. If you’re in a hurry, you can thaw them quickly by submerging the sealed package in cold water for about 30-60 minutes. Just ensure they’re thoroughly dried before breading.
Can I Make These Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can bread the pork chops ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure to cover them tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready, air fry them directly from the fridge—no need to thaw!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover pork chops 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 until heated through and crispy again.
What Should I Serve with Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a fun twist!
