These crispy fried pork chops are a real treat! They’re juicy on the inside and wonderfully crunchy on the outside. Just a few simple ingredients can turn dinner into something special!
Who doesn’t love a good crunch? I like to serve mine with some mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. It’s always a hit at the dinner table! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: For the best results, use boneless pork chops that are about 1-inch thick. If you want more flavor, bone-in chops can be used, just remember to adjust cooking time.
Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, mixing whole milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar works perfectly. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to sour.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give an extra crunch, but you can substitute them with regular breadcrumbs if that’s all you have. Just remember, the texture may be slightly different.
Spices: Feel free to mix things up! You can add different spices or herbs like Italian seasoning or even a sprinkle of thyme for variety.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops are Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy crust is key! Here are some tips to follow:
- Start by patting the pork chops dry; excess moisture will prevent crispiness.
- Coat them in flour first, as this helps the buttermilk and egg stick.
- Don’t skip the double dip! The flour, then buttermilk, then egg, followed by breadcrumbs creates layers that fry up crispy.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the pork. If it’s not, the chops will absorb oil instead of frying properly.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; give each chop space to fry evenly.
How to Make Crispy Fried Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or whole milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice/vinegar, let sit 5 mins)
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for some heat)
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10-12 minutes for frying. You’ll end up with a total of approximately 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick, delightful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is essential as it helps the breading stick better to the meat!
2. Set Up Your Dipping Stations:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. In another bowl, whisk the eggs. Pour the buttermilk into a third bowl, and put the panko breadcrumbs in a fourth dish.
3. Coat the Pork Chops:
Take each pork chop and dip it first into the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour before moving on. Next, dip the chop into the buttermilk, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat it with the panko breadcrumbs. Press down gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well.
4. Fry the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to reach a depth of about ¼ inch. Heat the oil over medium heat until it’s shimmering but not smoking. Carefully add the breaded pork chops to the oil, making sure not to crowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy. Your goal is an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the pork chops to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is deliciously tender!
Enjoy your crispy fried pork chops hot with your favorite sides—steamed broccoli and mashed sweet potatoes make a perfect pairing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops! Just be aware that they may take a few extra minutes to cook through, so ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) before serving.
What Can I Use Instead of Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of whole milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to sour before using.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat to maintain crispiness, or heat in the microwave for a quick option.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free crispy fried pork chops, simply use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and all-purpose flour. Check labels to ensure there are no hidden gluten ingredients!
