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The allure of crispy Parmesan crusted pork chops lies in their texture and flavor profile. The crispy crust provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy meat inside. The nutty, salty flavor of Parmesan cheese enhances the natural richness of the pork, making each bite a delightful experience. This dish is not just about taste; it embodies a culinary tradition that celebrates hearty, comforting meals, making it a staple in many households.

Crispy Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops

Discover the deliciousness of crispy Parmesan crusted pork chops! This comforting dish features succulent pork coated in a crunchy Parmesan and breadcrumb mix, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for any occasion, these pork chops are simple to prepare and pair beautifully with sides like creamy mashed potatoes or fresh salads. Learn the essential tips for marinating, breading, and cooking to achieve a golden-brown crust that will impress everyone at your table.

Ingredients
  

4 bone-in pork chops (approximately 1-inch thick)

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (use Italian-style for extra flavor)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a hint of smokiness)

1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

1 teaspoon salt

2 large eggs

½ cup all-purpose flour

½ cup buttermilk (optional for marinating to enhance tenderness)

3 tablespoons olive oil (adjust as needed for cooking)

Instructions
 

Prep the Pork Chops: For optimal tenderness, consider marinating the pork chops in buttermilk for at least 2 hours (or overnight, if time allows). This step is optional but recommended. If you're in a hurry, you can skip this marination.

    Preheat Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 400°F (200°C) while you prepare the pork chops, ensuring it reaches the right temperature for baking.

      Prepare Breading Station: Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes:

        - First Dish: Place the all-purpose flour for coating.

          - Second Dish: In this dish, whisk the eggs until they are smooth and lightly frothy.

            - Third Dish: Combine the grated Parmesan cheese, seasoned breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly.

              Bread the Pork Chops: If you marinated the pork chops, remove them from the buttermilk and allow any excess to drip off. Dredge each pork chop in the flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip them into the whisked eggs, letting any extra egg drip back into the bowl. Finally, coat each chop generously with the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing down lightly to ensure the coating adheres well.

                Sear the Chops: In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the breaded pork chops carefully (you may need to sear them in batches to avoid overcrowding). Sear each chop for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a beautiful golden brown crust.

                  Bake the Chops: After searing, transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the pork chops for about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). The crust should be crunchy and golden brown at this point.

                    Rest and Serve: Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, keeping them moist and flavorful.

                      Enjoy: Plate the crispy Parmesan crusted pork chops alongside your favorite side dishes such as creamy mashed potatoes, vibrant steamed vegetables, or a refreshing salad. For an extra touch, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan on top before serving!

                        Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4