Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops

These Air Fryer Pork Chops deliver crispy exteriors with juicy, tender meat inside. They come together quickly using simple ingredients, making them a perfect weeknight dinner or anytime meal that pleases the whole family. This recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen because it combines ease with fantastic flavor, and the air fryer keeps the chops perfectly crunchy without the fuss of traditional frying.

I first made these on a busy weeknight, and my entire family was surprised how delicious and tender they turned out. Now they request these pork chops regularly because they deliver that perfect crunch without hassle.

Ingredients

• Allpurpose flour: for coating the pork chops evenly and helping the crust stick better use a fresh, fine flour for best texture
• Kosher salt and black pepper: to season the chops and the coating creating balanced flavor kosher salt is preferred for its even saltiness
• Thincut boneless pork chops: are key for quick, even cooking look for chops about a half inch thick or pound thicker chops to this thickness
• Large eggs: mixed with water create the binding layer for the cracker coating fresh eggs work best for fuller flavor
• Finely crushed club crackers: provide a light and crispy crust choose freshly crushed crackers for a better texture
• Grated parmesan cheese: adds sharp, savory depth to the coating use a good quality cheese for robust flavor
• Garlic powder and onion powder: add aromatic and savory notes to bring the crust to life check that your spices are fresh for maximum flavor benefit
• Olive oil spray: is essential to get the coating golden and crisp in the air fryer without sogginess avoid vegetable sprays which can gum up the basket
• Chopped parsley: to garnish adds a fresh bright finish and color but is optional

Instructions

Sift the Flour Mixture:

In a large ziptop bag, combine the flour, kosher salt, and black pepper. Close and shake well to blend these seasonings into the flour. This mixture will lightly coat your pork chops and enhance the flavor of the crust.

Coat the Pork Chops with Flour:

Add the pork chops to the bag containing your flour mixture. Seal the bag and shake it thoroughly so that each chop is evenly coated with the seasoned flour. This step helps the egg and cracker coating stick to the meat.

Prepare the Egg Wash:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until the mixture is smooth and uniform. This egg wash acts as the glue that holds the cracker coating onto the pork chops.

Mix the Cracker Coating:

In another bowl, combine the finely crushed club crackers, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed. This crunchy seasoned mixture will form the flavorful outer crust.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheating is essential to achieve a crisp, golden crust on the pork chops.

Dip the Chops in Egg Wash:

One at a time, take each floured pork chop and dip it into the egg wash. Allow any excess egg mixture to drip off before moving to the next step so the coating adheres but does not become soggy.

Crust the Pork Chops:

Press the egg-coated pork chop into the cracker mixture. Coat all sides thoroughly, patting the crumbs into the meat to form a good crust. Shake off any loose crumbs to prevent excess falling in the air fryer.

Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:

Spray the basket of your air fryer generously with olive oil spray. This prevents sticking and promotes crisping.

Arrange and Cook the Pork Chops:

Place the pork chops in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch so the hot air can circulate evenly. You might need to cook in batches. Spray the tops of the pork chops thoroughly with olive oil spray. Air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 minutes total, flipping the chops halfway through and spraying the tops again to maintain crispness.

Check for Doneness:

The pork chops are done when they are golden brown all over and an internal temperature of at least 155 degrees Fahrenheit is reached. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure perfect cooking.

Garnish and Serve:

Optionally sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on the pork chops for a pop of color and fresh aroma before serving hot.

One of my favorite parts is the parmesan in the coating which adds a surprising richness and depth. A memorable moment was when my kids first tried these and couldnt believe how crispy they were without frying in a pan. It instantly became comfort food that everyone loved.

Storage tips

Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within four days for best quality. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 5 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid the microwave as it will make the coating soggy.

Ingredient substitutions

If club crackers are not available, Ritz crackers or saltine crackers work well and offer a slightly different but still delicious texture. For those needing a dairyfree option, skip the parmesan cheese and add an extra half teaspoon of garlic and onion powder for flavor boost. Eggs can be substituted with a buttermilk wash to add a bit of tang and tenderness.

Serving suggestions

These chops pair brilliantly with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp garden salad. A simple gravy or apple sauce also complements the pork chops for extra comfort and flavor. Leftover pork can be sliced thin for sandwiches or added to salads the next day.

These air fryer pork chops are quick to make and deliver a crunchy golden crust with juicy meat inside. Perfect for busy weeknights and easy to adapt with simple swaps.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating the air fryer to 400°F helps ensure even cooking and a crisp crust on the pork chops.

→ Can I substitute the club crackers?

Yes, Ritz or saltine crackers can be used as alternatives to achieve a crunchy coating.

→ What type of oil spray is recommended?

Olive oil or coconut oil spray is best to coat the pork chops and prevent sticking while creating a crispy finish.

→ How do I adjust cooking for thicker pork chops?

Thicker chops may require pounding thinner for faster cooking or increasing air frying time while checking doneness carefully.

→ Can I cook bone-in pork chops the same way?

Bone-in chops need longer air frying time and monitoring internal temperature until they reach 155°F for safe eating.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store chops in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 400°F for 3-5 minutes until warm.