These Parmesan crusted pork chops are crispy, cheesy, and so easy to make! The crunchy topping adds a tasty twist to juicy pork, making it a family favorite.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a good crunch? I always make extra for lunch leftovers because they reheat so well. Pair them with some veggies for a balanced meal—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops work great here, but bone-in chops can add extra flavor. If you prefer a leaner meat, try using chicken breasts instead; they take on the cheese crust beautifully!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese is best for flavor and texture. If Parmesan isn’t available, Pecorino Romano is a good substitute, giving a different but delicious kick. You can also go for a vegetarian Parmesan option.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives that extra crunch! If you can’t find it, regular breadcrumbs will do, but they won’t be as crispy. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
Eggs: If you’re out of eggs or egg-free, use buttermilk for dipping. It helps the coating stick and adds a bit of tang!
How Do I Get That Perfectly Crispy Crust?
Getting that golden, crispy crust is all about the method. Follow these steps for the best results!
- Start by patting the pork chops dry. This helps the coating stick better.
- Set up your dredging station: flour, egg, and the Parmesan breadcrumb mix. Make sure to fully coat each chop in each step to build up layers.
- Fry at the right temperature. Medium heat is ideal to ensure the pork cooks through without burning the crust.
- Let the chops rest after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping them moist inside.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing, and then about 20 minutes cooking the pork chops to perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better. Season both sides of the chops generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper for flavor.
2. Set Up the Breading Station:
Get three shallow dishes ready for the breading process. In the first dish, add the flour. In the second dish, beat the eggs and mix in the water. In the third dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir this mixture well so it’s combined nicely.
3. Bread the Pork Chops:
Take one pork chop and coat it in flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, letting any extra egg drip off. Finally, press the chop firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture on both sides until it’s completely coated. Repeat this for all the chops.
4. Fry the Chops:
Heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded pork chops to the skillet. Make sure not to crowd the pan, so they cook evenly.
5. Cook Until Golden:
Let the pork chops cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Once they’re golden brown and crispy, flip them over and cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check—your pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the Chops Rest:
Once cooked, transfer the pork chops to a plate and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring they stay juicy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you like, and serve your delicious Parmesan crusted pork chops warm. They pair beautifully with roasted asparagus or broccoli for a complete meal!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Parmesan crusted pork chops with family and friends!
Can I Substitute Chicken for Pork Chops?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well in this recipe. Just ensure they are pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking, and adjust the cooking time as needed, usually around 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour and substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The coating will still come out crispy and delicious!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you can’t find panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute, though they won’t be as crispy. You can also make your own by toasting bread and grinding it into crumbs in a food processor.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to maintain their crispy crust.
