Country Fried Pork Chops Recipe

If you love crispy, golden fried food with tender, juicy meat inside, these Country Fried Pork Chops are sure to become a new favorite. This classic Southern comfort dish features pork chops that are coated in seasoned flour, fried to golden perfection, and served up with creamy gravy for the ultimate indulgent meal. Whether you’re looking for a delicious dinner or a hearty weekend meal, this easy recipe will deliver a satisfying crunch and flavorful bite every time. Ready to bring some Southern-style comfort to your kitchen? Let’s dive into the full recipe!

this Recipe

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What Are Country Fried Pork Chops?

Country Fried Pork Chops are thick cuts of pork that are breaded and pan-fried until golden and crispy on the outside, while remaining tender and juicy inside. They are often served with creamy gravy made from the pan drippings. Similar to fried chicken, these pork chops get their signature crunch from a coating of seasoned flour, and they pair perfectly with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, biscuits, and green beans. This dish is hearty, full of flavor, and an all-time favorite in comfort food cuisine.

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Ingredients List for Country Fried Pork Chops

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make Country Fried Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick): Bone-in chops tend to be juicier, but you can use boneless if preferred.
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: For dredging the pork chops and creating a crispy coating.
• 2 large eggs: Helps the flour coating stick to the pork chops.
• ½ cup buttermilk: Adds flavor and helps create a thicker coating. You can use regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For seasoning the flour mixture.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth of flavor to the seasoning mix.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds color and a subtle smokiness.
• 1 teaspoon salt: For seasoning the pork chops and flour mixture.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild spice to the breading.
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a bit of heat.
• ½ cup vegetable oil (or more as needed): For frying the pork chops.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness to the frying process.

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Ingredients List for Country Gravy (Optional)

Many people serve Country Fried Pork Chops with gravy for a rich, creamy finishing touch. Here’s what you’ll need for the gravy:

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour: To make the roux for the gravy.
• 2 cups whole milk: The base for the gravy. You can substitute with half-and-half for a richer sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning the gravy.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and flavor.

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Substitutions and Variations

• Buttermilk substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
• Spice levels: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for a spicier coating.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make the breading gluten-free.
• Boneless pork chops: You can use boneless chops if you prefer, but keep an eye on cooking time since they may cook faster than bone-in chops.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make the crispiest, most flavorful Country Fried Pork Chops? Follow these steps!

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How to Cook Country Fried Pork Chops: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prep the pork chops: Remove the pork chops from the fridge about 20 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. Pat them dry with paper towels, and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Set up the dredging station: In one shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk. In another shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
3. Coat the pork chops: Dip each pork chop into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, then dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture. Press the flour onto the pork chops to ensure a thick, even coating. Shake off any excess flour and set aside on a plate.
4. Heat the oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan, heat the vegetable oil and butter over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking (about 350°F/175°C). You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet by about ½ inch.
5. Fry the pork chops: Carefully add the pork chops to the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry each chop for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Adjust the heat if needed to avoid burning the coating. Once done, transfer the chops to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Make the gravy (optional): If you’re making gravy, reserve about 1-2 tablespoons of the pan drippings. In the same skillet, melt the butter and whisk in the flour. Cook the flour for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Serve the crispy pork chops hot with a drizzle of gravy on top, if desired, and your favorite Southern sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the skillet: Fry the pork chops in batches to ensure they fry evenly and don’t become soggy. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, leading to greasy pork chops.
• Not letting the chops rest: Allow the pork chops to rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep them juicy and flavorful.
• Using too high heat: Fry the pork chops at a medium-high heat. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is fully cooked.
• Skipping the seasoning: Be sure to season the pork chops well before dredging. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

These Country Fried Pork Chops are the ultimate comfort food, so pair them with sides that complement their crispy, savory goodness.

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How to Serve Country Fried Pork Chops

• Classic Southern sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, collard greens, or cornbread for a complete Southern meal. Don’t forget a big glass of sweet tea!
• With gravy: Drizzle creamy country gravy over the pork chops for a rich, indulgent meal.
• Fresh salad: Balance the heaviness of the fried pork chops with a light side salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette.

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Presentation Ideas for Country Fried Pork Chops

• Rustic serving: Place the pork chops on a wooden cutting board or a rustic serving tray, with gravy in a small dish on the side.
• Individual plates: Serve each chop on a plate with a scoop of mashed potatoes, green beans, and a drizzle of gravy for a homey, diner-style presentation.
• Family-style: Lay the pork chops on a large platter with a bowl of gravy in the middle and pass it around for a cozy family-style dinner.

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Country Fried Pork Chops Recipe Tips

• Double-dredge method: For an extra-crispy coating, dip the pork chops back into the egg mixture and flour one more time after the first dredging. This will create a thicker crust.
• Make ahead: You can dredge the pork chops a few hours ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to fry. Just be sure to let them come back to room temperature before frying.
• Leftovers: Leftover pork chops can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes to maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the coating soggy.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe? Yes, boneless pork chops work just as well. They may cook faster, so be sure to monitor them carefully to avoid overcooking.
2. What oil is best for frying pork chops? Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all great options for frying pork chops. These oils have a high smoke point and won’t burn easily.
3. Can I make this dish in an air fryer? Yes! To make air fryer pork chops, dredge the pork chops as usual, then place them in the air fryer at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
4. How do I know when the pork chops are done? Pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure they’re cooked through without drying out.
5. Can I make gluten-free Country Fried Pork Chops? Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour, and proceed with the recipe as usual.

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Conclusion

Country Fried Pork Chops are the epitome of Southern comfort food—crispy, juicy, and full of flavor. Paired with creamy gravy and classic sides like mashed potatoes or collard greens, this dish is perfect for a family dinner, weekend gathering, or any time you want to indulge in something hearty and delicious. With a perfectly seasoned crust and tender pork inside, every bite is packed with flavor and texture. So, grab your skillet, whip up some gravy, and enjoy the best fried pork chops around!

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