Parmesan Coated Pork Chops In The Air Fryer

Parmesan Coated Pork Chops in the Air Fryer

Table of Contents

Description:

Parmesan coated pork chops in the air fryer are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. This quick and easy recipe brings together the nutty taste of Parmesan cheese with a blend of savory herbs, creating a crunchy coating that locks in moisture. Cooking them in the air fryer makes them healthier than traditional frying while maintaining the delicious crispiness you crave.

Ingredients:

4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 large egg, beaten
Olive oil spray (optional for extra crispiness)

Instructions:

Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
Mix the Coating:
In a bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Coat the Pork Chops:
Dip each pork chop into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then press it into the Parmesan mixture, ensuring all sides are evenly coated.
Arrange and Cook:
Place the coated pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. Lightly spray with olive oil for extra crispiness.
Air Fry:
Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check for doneness using a meat thermometer – the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Rest and Serve:
Let the pork chops rest for 3 minutes before serving. This helps retain their juiciness.

Servings:

Serves 4

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: ~320
Protein: 36g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0g
Sodium: 520mg

Tips:

Choose the Right Cut: Thicker pork chops (1 inch) work best for air frying as they stay juicy on the inside while getting crispy on the outside.
Avoid Overcrowding: Arrange pork chops in a single layer to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Crispier Coating: Lightly spray the pork chops with olive oil before cooking to enhance the crispiness.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness. Pork is safe to eat at 145°F (63°C) with a slight pink center.
Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or substitute Italian seasoning with herbs de Provence for a different flavor profile.

Benefits:

High Protein: Packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Low Carb: This recipe is low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for keto or low-carb diets.
Air Fried Goodness: Air frying requires minimal oil, reducing calorie intake while maintaining a crispy texture.

Q/A:

Q: Can I use bone-in pork chops?
A: Yes, but adjust the cooking time as bone-in cuts may take slightly longer to cook.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just ensure the Parmesan cheese is gluten-free, as some pre-grated versions may contain additives.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to retain crispiness.
Q: Can I freeze the cooked pork chops?
A: Yes, freeze them in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer bag. Reheat in the air fryer directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Q: What can I serve with Parmesan coated pork chops?
A: Pair them with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed cauliflower for a complete low-carb meal.