1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
- Season Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Set Up Breading Station:
- Flour Mixture: Place the flour in a shallow dish.
- Egg Mixture: In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- Breadcrumb Mixture: In a third shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried Italian herbs (if using).
3. Bread the Pork Chops:
- Coat with Flour: Dredge each pork chop in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip in Egg: Dip the floured pork chop into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Press the pork chop into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is well coated on all sides. Repeat with the remaining pork chops.
4. Fry the Pork Chops:
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that a breadcrumb sizzles when dropped in.
- Fry Pork Chops: Carefully place the breaded pork chops in the hot oil. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
5. Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the Parmesan fried pork chops hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables.
Tips for Success:
- Even Cooking: Ensure the pork chops are an even thickness to promote even cooking. You can pound them to a uniform thickness if needed.
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is key to achieving a crispy crust without burning the breadcrumbs. If you have a thermometer, aim for around 350°F (175°C).
- Oven Finish: If your pork chops are browning too quickly on the outside but not fully cooked inside, you can finish them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes after frying.
Parmesan fried pork chops are a delightful, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy crust and juicy, tender pork in this satisfying meal!