Print

Quick Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Pork Chops (Easy Dinner)

air fryer parmesan pork chops - featured image

These air fryer Parmesan pork chops are impossibly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a salty, nutty, cheesy crust. Ready in about 20 minutes, they’re perfect for busy weeknights and use simple ingredients you likely already have.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs (panko works great for extra crunch)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil spray for the air fryer basket)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
  • Lemon wedges for squeezing over the top (optional)
  • Extra grated Parmesan for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels on both sides. This is crucial for the coating to stick.
  2. Season both sides of each pork chop lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. In one shallow bowl, beat the two eggs until uniform. In a second shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Working with one pork chop at a time, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off. Then press it firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly. Let the coated chops rest on a plate for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F for about 3 minutes.
  6. Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the coated pork chops in a single layer in the basket, without overcrowding.
  7. Air fry at 380°F for 10 minutes. Carefully flip each pork chop using tongs. Spray the tops lightly with oil if desired. Cook for another 5-8 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F when measured with a meat thermometer.
  8. Let the pork chops rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat the pork chops dry thoroughly to prevent the coating from sliding off. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Let the coated chops rest for 2-3 minutes before cooking to help the coating set. For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs. If your air fryer is small, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer pork chops, Parmesan pork chops, crispy pork chops, easy weeknight dinner, quick dinner, pork chop recipe