Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops Recipe
Introduction
Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops are a deliciously crispy and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With a crunchy Parmesan and breadcrumb coating, these pork chops stay juicy inside while offering a satisfying bite. Whether baked or pan-fried, they’re simple to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano and basil)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying or drizzling)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper to create the coating mixture.
- Step 3: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. Dip each chop into the beaten egg, allowing the excess to drip off, then press firmly into the Parmesan mixture to coat evenly on both sides.
- Step 4: Choose your cooking method:
- Baking: Place the coated pork chops on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the crust is golden brown.
- Pan-Frying: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the pork chops for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Drain on paper towels.
- Step 5: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Tips & Variations
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier coating than regular breadcrumbs.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the coating for a spicy kick.
- For extra flavor, marinate pork chops for 30 minutes in olive oil and garlic before coating.
- Try serving with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Storage
Store leftover Parmesan crusted pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or a skillet to keep the crust crisp. Avoid microwaving, which can make the coating soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, bone-in pork chops work well but may require a few extra minutes of cooking time to reach a safe internal temperature.
How do I know when the pork chops are fully cooked?
The pork chops are done when their internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for best results to ensure juiciness and safety.
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Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops recipe features tender, juicy pork chops coated with a crispy mixture of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and Italian herbs. Whether baked in the oven or pan-fried to golden perfection, this dish offers a flavorful and crunchy crust that enhances the natural taste of the pork. Perfectly seasoned and quick to prepare, it’s an ideal main course accompanied by your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Ingredients
Pork Chops and Coating
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano and basil)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Binding and Cooking
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying or drizzling)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven (if baking): If you choose to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for the pork chops.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix together grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful crust mix.
- Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Then, dip each pork chop into the beaten egg, letting excess drip off, and press evenly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture to coat thoroughly.
- Cook the Pork Chops – Baking Option: Place the coated pork chops on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and that the crust is golden brown before removing.
- Cook the Pork Chops – Pan-Frying Option: Heat about 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the coated pork chops for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve the Parmesan crusted pork chops with sides such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Ensure pork chops are patted dry before seasoning to help the coating adhere better.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
- Adjust garlic powder and herbs to taste for a personalized flavor.
- Check pork chops’ internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Leftover pork chops can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently to maintain crust crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Parmesan crusted pork chops, baked pork chops, crispy pork chops, Italian herb pork chops, easy pork chop recipe
