Easy Air Fryer Fried Pork Chops

Ingredients

• 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray
• Optional: ½ cup buttermilk for marinating

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

1. Start by patting the pork chops dry using paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the coating stick better and ensures crispiness. If desired, marinate the pork chops in buttermilk for 15–30 minutes to make them extra tender and juicy.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

1. Set up three shallow bowls:
2. Bowl 1: Flour mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper
3. Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
4. Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs
5. This three-step coating process creates a crispy outer layer.

Step 3: Coat the Pork Chops

1. Take each pork chop and:
2. Dredge it in the seasoned flour, coating evenly
3. Dip it into the beaten eggs
4. Press it into the breadcrumbs until fully coated
5. Repeat for all pork chops. Lightly press the coating to ensure it sticks well.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 190°C (375°F) for about 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and better crisping.

Step 5: Air Fry the Pork Chops

1. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with oil. Place pork chops in a single layer without overlapping.
2. Cook at 190°C (375°F) for 12–15 minutes , flipping halfway through cooking time. Spray lightly with oil on top for extra crispiness if desired.
3. Check internal temperature; pork chops should reach 63°C (145°F) for safe consumption.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Once cooked, remove pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for 3–5 minutes. This helps retain juices and keeps them tender.
2. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, salad, steamed vegetables, or dipping sauces like garlic mayo or honey mustard.

Nutrition

Calories: ~320 kcal · Protein: 28g · Fat: 12g · Carbohydrates: 22g · Saturated Fat: 3g · Fiber: 1g · Sugar: 1g · Sodium: 580mg