Golden & Crispy Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
Golden & Crispy Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops feature a flavorful garlicky, cheesy crust that locks in juicy tenderness. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe guides you step-by-step to achieve a crunchy, golden coating and moist, flavorful pork every time.
Equipment
- Cast iron or heavy-bottom skillet
- Oven (optional for finishing)
- Instant-read meat thermometer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 to 1.5 inches thick)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated preferred)
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp dried herbs (optional: thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for cooking)
- Optional: 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a shallow bowl, combine minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and dried herbs if using.
- Brush pork chops lightly with olive oil or melted butter to help crust adhere. Press each chop firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly on all sides.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add pork chops, cooking undisturbed for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
- For thicker chops, transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and cook for an additional 5–8 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove chops and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra juiciness, brine pork chops in a saltwater solution for 30–60 minutes before cooking.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier crust. Regular breadcrumbs work but yield a denser crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet to prevent sogginess; cook in batches if needed.
- Rest chops on a wire rack after cooking to maintain crispiness.
- Swap panko for almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-free diets.
- Customize with additional spices or cheese varieties like Asiago or Pecorino Romano.