If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, these Air Fryer Parmesan Pork Chops are the perfect choice. The air fryer ensures that the pork chops are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, with a delightful Parmesan crust that adds extra flavor. This recipe is simple to follow and will become a family favorite in no time. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian style)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- Cooking spray
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Shallow bowls for breading
- Tongs
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Breading Station:
- In one shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In another shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and water.
Step 2: Bread the Pork Chops
- Dip in Egg Wash:
- Dip each pork chop into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Coat with Parmesan Mixture:
- Dredge the egg-coated pork chops in the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breading adheres well to the meat.
Step 3: Cook in the Air Fryer
- Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the Pork Chops:
- Place the breaded pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they do not overlap. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air Fry the Pork Chops:
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The pork chops should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Check for Doneness:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops are fully cooked. If necessary, air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve:
- Serve the Parmesan-crusted pork chops immediately with your favorite sides, such as a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Tips for Perfect Parmesan Pork Chops
- Uniform Thickness: Choose pork chops that are uniform in thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Crispier Coating: For an extra crispy coating, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the seasonings to your preference. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or some dried Italian herbs for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Sugar: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
Conclusion
Air Fryer Parmesan Pork Chops are a delicious and easy meal that combines the savory flavor of Parmesan cheese with the crispy texture of breadcrumbs. The air fryer makes this dish quick to prepare and ensures the pork chops are perfectly cooked every time. Enjoy this tasty and satisfying meal with your favorite sides for a complete dinner experience.
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and coatings to customize this recipe to your liking. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, these Parmesan-crusted pork chops are sure to impress. Happy cooking!