Name: Crispy Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops: A Flavorful, Crunchy Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick); 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch); 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme); Optional: 1/2 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning for extra flavor; 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for searing)

Jump to Recipe

When it comes to a satisfying, flavorful meal, Crispy Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops hit the mark every time. These pork chops are coated in a crispy, golden crust made with freshly grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and a perfect blend of seasonings. The result is an irresistible crunch on the outside, while the pork remains juicy and tender on the inside.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe is simple yet impressive. The combination of savory Parmesan cheese, aromatic garlic powder, and fresh thyme elevates the flavors, while the crispy exterior adds a delightful texture. Serve these pork chops with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a meal everyone will rave about.

With just a few basic ingredients and a simple cooking method, these Crispy Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. You’ll love how easy they are to prepare, and your taste buds will appreciate the bold flavors in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crispy and Flavorful

The Parmesan crust creates a beautifully crunchy coating, while the seasonings infuse the pork with irresistible flavors.

2. Juicy Pork

Bone-in pork chops are perfect for retaining moisture, resulting in juicy, tender meat beneath the crisp crust.

3. Quick and Easy

This recipe is simple to prepare and doesn’t take long to cook, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner.

4. Customizable Flavors

You can easily adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, adding more garlic, herbs, or spices for a personalized touch.

5. Impressive Presentation

The golden, crispy crust on these pork chops gives them a restaurant-quality look, making them perfect for entertaining.

Ingredients

Pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Breadcrumbs (traditional or panko)
Eggs
Garlic powder
Black pepper
Fresh thyme (optional: paprika or Italian seasoning)
Olive oil or butter

Variations

Herbed Crust: Add a teaspoon of dried oregano or basil for an Italian-inspired flavor.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a touch of heat.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a substitute for traditional breadcrumbs.
Cheese Variation: Swap out the Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper, more tangy crust.
Pork Tenderloin: If you prefer pork tenderloin over chops, you can easily adapt this recipe to work with tenderloin pieces.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

If you’re using bone-in pork chops, pat them dry with paper towels to ensure the crust sticks well. For boneless chops, follow the same step.

Step 2: Make the Coating

In a shallow bowl, combine freshly grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs (or panko), garlic powder, black pepper, and fresh thyme. Feel free to add any extra seasonings at this stage.

Step 3: Dredge the Pork Chops

In another bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each pork chop into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, then dredge it into the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to make sure the crumbs adhere to the pork.

Step 4: Cook the Pork Chops

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the crust is golden brown and the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, and serve with your favorite sides.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Ensure Even Coating: Make sure to press the breadcrumbs into the pork chops to create an even coating that will crisp up nicely when cooking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: For the crispiest result, avoid overcrowding the skillet. If you’re cooking multiple chops, work in batches.
Use a Thermometer: For perfectly cooked pork, use a meat thermometer to check that the pork has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Rest the Pork: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures the meat stays moist.

How to Serve

These Crispy Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:

Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes for a well-rounded meal.
Mashed Potatoes: Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes to balance the crispiness of the pork.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavor of the pork chops.
Rice or Couscous: A side of rice or couscous would be perfect for soaking up any extra juices.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the crust crispy, you may want to reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze the pork chops, allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat the pork chops in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless pork chops?

Yes, boneless pork chops will work just as well. They cook faster than bone-in chops, so be sure to adjust the cooking time.

2. Can I make the coating ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and seasonings ahead of time and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to use them.

3. How can I get the crust extra crispy?

For an extra crispy crust, try using panko breadcrumbs and press the coating firmly onto the pork chops.

4. Can I bake the pork chops instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

5. How do I know when the pork chops are cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

6. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but you can use pre-grated if needed.

7. Can I freeze these pork chops?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork chops after they’ve cooled. Wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months.

8. What can I serve with these pork chops?

These pork chops go great with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

9. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

10. Can I make the pork chops spicier?

Yes, you can add cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture for some extra heat.

Conclusion

These Crispy Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops are a perfect combination of crunchy, cheesy goodness with juicy, tender pork. With a simple ingredient list and easy preparation, this dish is an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this recipe will deliver big on flavor and satisfaction. Enjoy!