Step 1: Prepare the Breading Stations
- Flour Mixture:
- In a shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour.
- Egg Mixture:
- In a second shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and water until well combined.
- Breadcrumb Mixture:
- In a third shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Bread the Pork Chops
- Coat in Flour:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Dredge each pork chop in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip in Egg:
- Dip the floured pork chops into the egg mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Coat in Breadcrumbs:
- Press each pork chop into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Gently press the breadcrumbs onto the pork chops to help them adhere.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Pork Chops
- Arrange in Air Fryer:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded pork chops in the basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Spray with Oil:
- Lightly spray the tops of the pork chops with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
- Air Fry:
- Cook the pork chops at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Step 5: Serve
- Rest:
- Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain their juices.
- Garnish:
- Serve the crispy breaded pork chops with your favorite sides. They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips and Variations
- Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste. Add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Cheese: Substitute the Parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano or any hard cheese of your choice for a different twist.
- Pork Chop Cuts: This recipe works with bone-in pork chops as well, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
- Crispiness: For extra crispy pork chops, you can double-dip: after the first breadcrumb coating, dip the pork chops again in the egg mixture and then back into the breadcrumbs.
Conclusion
Crispy Breaded Air Fryer Pork Chops are a fantastic option for a quick, easy, and healthier dinner. The air fryer gives them a perfect crunch while keeping the inside juicy and tender. This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy these delicious pork chops with your favorite sides and savor the flavor and texture of this satisfying meal. Happy cooking!