These Country Fried Pork Chops are crispy, golden, and full of flavor! Coated in a crunchy breading, they are perfect for a hearty meal.
Honestly, who can resist a good fried chop? I love pairing them with mashed potatoes and gravy. It’s the ultimate comfort food that feels like a warm hug! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use either bone-in or boneless pork chops for this recipe. Bone-in chops are juicier, while boneless are easier to eat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using pork loin chops instead!
Flour: All-purpose flour is great for breading, but if you need a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch. Both will still give you a nice crust!
Spices: The spices add flavor, but don’t hesitate to adjust them! If you like it extra spicy, increase the cayenne pepper. Other flavors like Italian seasoning or smoked paprika can provide a nice twist.
Eggs and Milk: If you’re out of eggs or want a dairy-free option, you can replace the eggs with a mix of 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water. For milk, almond or oat milk work well.
How Can I Get a Perfectly Crispy Coating?
A crispy coating comes from the right technique and preparation. First, make sure to season your flour mix well, as this is where most of the flavor comes from. Also, don’t rush the frying process.
- Heat your oil properly; it should be hot but not smoking. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the coating may absorb too much oil and become soggy.
- Creating double-dipped chops really enhances the crunch. Just remember to keep one hand for wet (egg) and one for dry (flour) to avoid a messy situation.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this can lower the oil temperature, leading to less crispy results. Fry in batches if needed.
Country Fried Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- Vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying
- Fresh thyme sprig (for garnish, optional)
- Country-style gravy or dipping sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 10-12 minutes for cooking, so you can have delicious country fried pork chops ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Breading Station:
In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. This will be your seasoned flour. In another shallow bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together until fully combined. This is your egg wash.
2. Bread the Pork Chops:
Take each pork chop and dip it first into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated. Then, dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing down gently so that the flour sticks evenly. If you like an extra crunchy crust, repeat the dipping in the egg and flour once more.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, pour in about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil and heat it over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot but not smoking. A good test is to drop a small bit of the flour mixture into the oil; if it sizzles, it’s ready!
4. Fry the Pork Chops:
Carefully place each breaded pork chop into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown and the internal temperature hits 145°F. This will ensure they’re cooked through but still juicy!
5. Drain Excess Oil:
Once the pork chops are cooked, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. This will help absorb any extra oil and keep them crispy.
6. Serve:
Arrange your crispy country fried pork chops on a serving platter. If you’d like, garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme. Serve them with a side of country-style gravy or your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy a comforting meal!
Enjoy your crispy and flavorful Country Fried Pork Chops!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw them before cooking. The best way to do this is to leave them in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water until thawed. Pat them dry before breading for better adhesion of the coating.
How Can I Make the Coating Extra Crispy?
For an extra crispy coating, consider double dipping! After the first layer of egg and flour, you can dip the pork chop back into the egg and then into the flour again. Also, ensure that your oil is hot enough before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through to maintain their crispiness. Avoid using the microwave if you can since it can make the coating soggy.
What Can I Serve With Country Fried Pork Chops?
This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and country gravy, but you can also serve it with coleslaw, green beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!