Country Fried Pork Chops are crispy and flavorful! They’re breaded and fried to golden perfection, making them a comfort food that is simply hard to resist.
I love serving them with mashed potatoes and gravy. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! Who can say no to that? Plus, they’re super easy to make on a busy day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Choose bone-in or boneless pork chops, around 3/4-inch thick. Bone-in chops can add extra flavor! If you prefer a leaner option, pork loin can work too.
Flour: Regular all-purpose flour is perfect for coating. If you’re gluten-free, try using almond flour or a gluten-free blend to achieve a similar crispiness.
Spices: Salt and pepper are essentials, but feel free to adjust the paprika and garlic powder based on your taste. I sometimes add Italian seasoning for extra flavor!
Eggs and Milk: The eggs help the flour stick better. You can substitute with buttermilk for a richer taste or plant-based milk if you want a dairy-free option.
Vegetable Oil: Use oil with a high smoke point for frying, like canola or peanut oil. This keeps the temperature stable for a crispier crust.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crust?
Achieving that crispy golden crust is all about the double coating method. By dipping the pork chops in flour, then egg, and back into the flour, you create a thicker coating that seals in moisture and flavor.
- For extra crispiness, let the coated pork chops rest for about 10 minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better.
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chops. A drop of flour should sizzle. If the oil isn’t hot, the crust may become soggy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Fry in batches if necessary to maintain the oil’s temperature for even cooking.
Following these tips will lead to deliciously crispy Country Fried Pork Chops that are sure to be a hit!
Country Fried Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pork chops (about 3/4-inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh rosemary or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and around 10-12 minutes to cook. In total, you should expect to spend about 30 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Begin by gently pounding each pork chop with a meat mallet. Flatten them to about 1/2 inch thick; this step really helps them cook evenly while staying juicy!
2. Mix the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling spicy! Mix everything together so the spices are well combined in the flour.
3. Prepare the Egg Wash:
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until they’re fully blended. This mixture will help the flour stick to the pork chops.
4. Bread the Chops:
Now the fun part! First, take a pork chop and dip it into the flour mixture, making sure it’s thoroughly coated. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, and return it back to the flour mixture for a double coating. Press the flour around the chop firmly to get a nice crust!
5. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. To check if the oil is ready, toss in a small pinch of flour; if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
6. Fry the Pork Chops:
Carefully place the breaded pork chops into the hot oil. Fry each chop for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Drain Excess Oil:
Once cooked, transfer the pork chops to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This will keep them nice and crispy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your hot, crispy pork chops garnished with fresh rosemary or parsley if you like. They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, gravy, or your favorite sides!
Enjoy your delicious, crispy Country Fried Pork Chops!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops add extra flavor and can help keep the meat juicy during cooking. Just make sure they are similar in thickness to ensure even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for All-Purpose Flour?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend can work well for breading. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
While it’s best to fry them fresh for the crispiest results, you can bread the pork chops ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a few hours before frying. Just be careful not to let them sit too long, as the coating may become soggy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to help maintain their crispiness.
