These crispy air fryer thin pork chops are so easy to make! With just a few ingredients, you can have juicy and crunchy bites that everyone will love.
I swear, the air fryer makes them taste like they were cooked on the grill! Perfect for weeknight dinners or lazy weekends. Just season, cook, and enjoy—it’s that simple!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Thin pork chops are perfect for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken cutlets can work in a pinch!
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives that extra crunch! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can be used, but the texture may not be as crispy. You can also use crushed cornflakes for a unique twist.
Smoked Paprika: While it adds a nice smokiness, it’s not essential. You could replace it with regular paprika or omit it entirely if you prefer a simpler flavor.
Egg Substitution: If you’re avoiding eggs, try using a flaxseed meal mixed with water or unsweetened applesauce. Both will help bind the breadcrumbs to the pork chops.
How Can You Achieve the Perfect Crispy Coating?
To get that deliciously crispy coating, it’s all about the order of operations. Make sure to pat the pork chops dry so the coating sticks well. Here’s how to do it:
- First, dredge the chops in the seasoned flour. This step builds a base that helps the egg stick.
- Next, the egg wash helps the panko adhere well, so give each chop a good dip!
- Finally, press firmly into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring it’s well-coated. This step is key for that crunchy finish.
Don’t skimp on spraying your pork chops with cooking oil before air frying. This helps to mimic the frying effect and gives that golden color!
Crispy Air Fryer Thin Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 thin pork chops (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray or a light drizzle of oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 5 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook in the air fryer, making a total time of roughly 15 minutes. Quick, right? Perfect for a busy weeknight or a satisfying weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps your pork chops cook evenly and develop that crunch we all love!
2. Prepare the Coatings:
In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. In another bowl, whisk the egg and water together. Then, in a third bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs. These bowls will help you set up your breading station.
3. Get the Pork Chops Ready:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the flour coating stick better to the meat!
4. Dredge and Coat the Pork Chops:
Start by dredging each pork chop in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the floured chops into the egg mixture, coating them well. Finally, press the chops into the panko breadcrumbs, making sure they’re fully covered and have a nice, even layer. This step is where the magic happens for that crispy texture!
5. Oil and Arrange:
Lightly spray or brush both sides of each pork chop with cooking oil. This will help them get golden brown and enhance the crispiness. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave some space between each chop for air circulation.
6. Air Fry to Perfection:
Cook the pork chops for about 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should be golden brown, crispy, and have reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check!
7. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, carefully remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping them nice and juicy!
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful, and juicy air fryer thin pork chops! They’re delicious served with your favorite sides!
FAQ about Crispy Air Fryer Thin Pork Chops
Can I Use Regular Pork Chops Instead of Thin Ones?
Yes, you can use regular pork chops, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Thicker chops will require an additional 5-10 minutes of cooking to ensure they reach the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs, though they may not be as crispy. Crushed cornflakes or even crushed crackers can also provide a nice crunch!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Before Cooking?
Absolutely! Marinating for a few hours or overnight can infuse more flavor into the pork chops. Just make sure to pat them dry before coating to ensure the breading sticks properly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes until heated through and crispy again!
