This Breaded Pork Chop recipe is a true comfort food classic that transforms simple pork chops into a crispy, savory delight. Coated in a flavorful breading and pan-fried to golden perfection, these pork chops are juicy on the inside and satisfyingly crunchy on the outside. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy weekend meal, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll adore this breaded pork chop recipe for its incredible flavor and straightforward cooking process. The crispy coating, enhanced with herbs and spices, locks in the moisture of the pork, resulting in a juicy, tender bite every time. It’s a great fit for busy weeknights, as it comes together quickly with just a handful of ingredients, making it a go-to in any household. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike!
Tips and Tricks
- Pound the Pork Chops: For an even cook and tenderness, use a meat mallet to pound the chops to an even thickness, about ¾ inch.
- Chill the Coating: After breading the pork chops, let them chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes. This helps the breading adhere better when frying.
- Use a Thermometer: To ensure perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer. Pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F for optimal juiciness.
- Experiment with Breading: Try using different types of breadcrumbs (like panko for extra crunch) or adding grated parmesan to the mix for added flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many chops at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy breading. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Not Seasoning Properly: Many home cooks forget to season the meat and breading adequately. Don’t skip the salt and pepper!
- Skipping the Resting Period: Allowing the pork chops to rest after cooking helps the juices redistribute, making for a more flavorful chop.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep the pork chops ahead of time by breading them and storing them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can marinate the pork chops in a mixture of buttermilk and spices for up to 12 hours before breading for extra tenderness. Just make sure to keep them covered and refrigerated.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy version.
- Herb Variations: Swap out the dried herbs for fresh ones like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a fresh flavor twist.
- Air Fryer Option: For a healthier take, try air frying the breaded chops. Cook at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How to Serve
Serve these delicious breaded pork chops with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad. For a pop of color, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or lemon wedges. Arranging the pork chops on a rustic wooden board can elevate the presentation, making it feel like a gourmet meal.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair these pork chops with a refreshing glass of white wine, like a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. Complement the meal with sides such as roasted Brussels sprouts or apple sauce for a sweet contrast. For dessert, consider serving a light fruit tart to balance the savory flavors.
How to Store
Leftover breaded pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; they will last for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes to restore crispiness.
Equipment Needed
- Heavy skillet or cast iron skillet for frying
- Meat mallet for pounding the chops
- Shallow dishes for breading setup (like pie plates)
- Cooking thermometer for checking doneness
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe gluten-free, swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. For a dairy-free option, use almond milk or a non-dairy milk alternative for marinating. If you need a nut-free option, simply ensure that the breadcrumbs used do not contain any nut products.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring and summer, serve the breaded pork chops with fresh garden vegetables like zucchini or asparagus. In the fall, pair them with roasted sweet potatoes or a warm apple slaw to highlight seasonal flavors.
Cost Breakdown
This recipe serves approximately 4 people and can be made for around $15 total, making it about $3.75 per serving. You can save money by purchasing pork chops on sale or using frozen chops if fresh ones are too pricey.
Kitchen Hacks
- Quick Breadcrumbs: If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can quickly pulse stale bread in a food processor to make your own.
- Flavored Oil: For added flavor, consider frying the pork chops in a mixture of butter and oil.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use boneless pork chops? Yes! Boneless pork chops work great for this recipe; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
- What can I substitute for breadcrumbs? Crushed cornflakes, crushed crackers, or even ground oats can be used as alternatives.
- How do I know when the pork chops are done? Use a meat thermometer to check for 145°F internally—this ensures they’re juicy and fully cooked.
Breaded Pork Chop
This Breaded Pork Chop recipe is a true comfort food classic that transforms simple pork chops into a crispy, savory delight. Coated in a flavorful breading and pan-fried to golden perfection, these pork chops are juicy on the inside and satisfyingly crunchy on the outside.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Cooking oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Instructions
- Prep the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. If desired, pound them to an even thickness.
- Set Up the Breading Station: In three shallow dishes, place flour seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in one; whisk eggs in another; and place breadcrumbs in the third.
- Bread the Chops: Dredge each pork chop in flour, shaking off excess, dip into the egg, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs onto the surface for better adherence.
- Chill: Place the breaded pork chops on a plate and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about ¼ inch of oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Fry the Chops: Carefully add the pork chops to the hot oil, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Drain and Rest: Remove the chops and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 606Total Fat 26gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 17gCholesterol 196mgSodium 934mgCarbohydrates 45gFiber 2gSugar 2gProtein 47g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This breaded pork chop recipe is a delightful addition to your cooking repertoire, marrying simplicity with scrumptious flavors. With a crispy exterior and juicy interior, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Whether enjoyed on a weeknight or for a special occasion, these pork chops are bound to become a new favorite. Enjoy cooking and savoring every bite!
