These panko crusted pork chops are crispy, crunchy, and oh-so-delicious! The panko breadcrumbs give a lovely crunch that pairs perfectly with the tender meat.
Who knew pork chops could be such a hit? I love serving them with some veggies on the side for a colorful meal. It’s like a fancy dinner, but super easy to make! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops work great for this recipe. You can easily substitute bone-in chops if you prefer, but they may take a little longer to cook. If you need a leaner option, try using chicken breasts instead!
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko is a fantastic choice because it creates a light and crispy coating. If you don’t have panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but the texture won’t be as airy. Crushed cornflakes or even crushed crackers could be fun alternatives too!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a delicious flavor to the coating. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano works well too. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast; just sprinkle it in with the breadcrumbs.
Eggs: The eggs help the coating stick. If you need a vegan alternative, you can use flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water) as a binding agent.
How Can I Make Sure My Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
Keeping pork chops juicy requires some attention during cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with well-seasoned meat. Pat the chops dry and lightly season them with salt and pepper.
- Don’t skip the resting step! After cooking, let the chops rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices so they don’t run out when you cut into them.
- Make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the pork chops. This sears the outside, locking in moisture.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 145°F (63°C) to keep them juicy but fully cooked.
How to Make Panko Crusted Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook, making the total time about 25 minutes. You’ll have delicious, crispy pork chops ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Breading Stations:
Set up three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In the third bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This is your flavorful coating!
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice crust. Season both sides of the chops lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
3. Coat the Pork Chops:
Start by dredging each pork chop in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, press each chop firmly into the panko mixture, making sure it’s well-coated on all sides for that perfect crunch.
4. Cook the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the coated pork chops. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until the crust is golden brown and the pork has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This keeps them juicy! If you’d like, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.
6. Optional Serving Suggestion:
These tasty pork chops go great with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. Enjoy every crispy, flavorful bite!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will add extra flavor, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, you can substitute with regular breadcrumbs, but the texture won’t be as crunchy. Alternatively, crushed cornflakes or crackers can work for a similar crispy coating!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain the crispy coating.
Can I Prepare the Coating in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the panko coating ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. Just give it a good shake before using to redistribute the ingredients!
