There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a crispy, golden-brown fried pork chop with a juicy, tender center. This recipe delivers just that—perfectly seasoned, with a crunchy coating that locks in all the savory flavors. Ready in just 21 minutes, it’s a quick yet impressive dish that feels like a comforting hug on a plate.
Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures—crunchy on the outside, succulent on the inside—with a hint of warmth from the seasoning blend. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, these pork chops are a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Serve them up and watch them disappear!
Ingredients for Perfect Fried Pork Chops
- 8 Bone-In Pork Chops (preferably 1-inch thick for even cooking)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt (or sub with regular salt and a pinch of paprika)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for best flavor)
- 1 teaspoon steak seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt, to taste (adjust according to preference)
- ½ cup canola oil (or use vegetable oil as a substitute)
- 1 Tablespoon butter (for richness and flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pork Chops: Rinse the pork chops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Ensure all excess moisture is removed to help the coating stick better.
- Mix the Seasoning: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, seasoned salt, black pepper, steak seasoning, and salt to taste. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly.
- Coat the Pork Chops: Dip each pork chop into the seasoning mixture, making sure both sides are evenly coated. Set the coated chops aside on a plate.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil reaches between 325-375°F (use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy), add the butter to the skillet.
- Cook the Pork Chops: When the butter has melted, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on the first side until golden brown, then flip and cook for 1 to 2 minutes on the other side. (The internal temperature should reach 145°F for safe consumption.)
- Remove and Repeat: Transfer the cooked pork chops to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining pork chops.
- Serve: Serve the pork chops immediately while hot, paired with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. Enjoy!
Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas
Elevate your fried pork chops with a drizzle of garlic butter or a dollop of creamy mushroom sauce. For a tangy twist, try a simple apple cider glaze made by simmering ½ cup apple cider, 1 tablespoon honey, and a pinch of cinnamon until thickened. If you’re feeling adventurous, top with a spoonful of caramelized onions or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
Serve It Right: Perfect Side Dishes
Pair your crispy pork chops with classic comfort foods like mashed potatoes or buttery cornbread. For a lighter option, serve alongside a fresh green salad or steamed green beans. Don’t forget a slice of lemon for a bright, zesty finish!
Keep It Fresh: Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through. For extra crispiness, use an air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess!
Quick Tips for Time-Saving Success
To save time, prep your seasoning mix in advance and store it in a jar for future use. If you’re cooking for a crowd, use a large electric skillet to fry multiple pork chops at once. For even faster prep, pat the chops dry the night before and store them covered in the fridge.
Common Questions Answered
Can I use boneless pork chops? Absolutely! Just reduce the cooking time by 1-2 minutes per side to avoid overcooking. What if I don’t have steak seasoning? No problem—swap it for a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder for a similar flavor boost. How do I know when the oil is hot enough? Test it by dropping a pinch of flour into the skillet—if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go!
Perfect Fried Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 8 Bone In Pork Chops
- ½ cup flour
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon steak seasoning
- salt to taste
- ½ cup canola oil
- 1 Tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Rinse pork chops and pat dry with paper towels, making sure to remove all excess moisture.
- In a medium bowl, combine flour, seasoned salt, black pepper, steak seasoning, and salt to taste.
- Dip each side of the pork chops into the seasoning mixture, then set aside on a plate.
- Heat canola oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet and once it is hot (between 325-375 degrees F), add butter to the skillet.
- When the butter is melted, cook pork chops 2 to 3 minutes on the first side; 1 to 2 minutes on the other side.
- Dispose of the excess oil.
- Remove fried pork chop to a plate and repeat with remaining pork chops.