Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

Enjoy juicy pork chops with a crisp, golden Parmesan coating, full of savory Italian flavors. Searing the breaded chops in olive oil helps create a delicious crust, locking in the moisture for tender, flavorful results. Finish them in the oven so each bite is cooked through without drying out. The blend of Parmesan cheese, Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, and spices like paprika and garlic delivers depth and aroma. Prep is quick, making this dish a weeknight favorite. Serve your pork chops with hearty sides—think roasted veggies, potatoes, or a simple salad. These make a memorable main any night of the week.

A woman wearing a chef's hat and apron.
Recipe Author Maria
Updated as of Thu, 05 Jun 2025 21:40:43 GMT
A pan of Parmesan-crusted pork chops. Bookmark
A pan of Parmesan-crusted pork chops. | foodbymary.com

These Parmesan-crusted pork chops are the ultimate answer for nights when you want comfort and a bit of wow without a ton of work. With just a handful of ingredients and a clever two-step process, you get pork that is incredibly juicy inside with a shatteringly golden crust on the outside. The flavors are rich and savory thanks to fresh Parmesan, Italian breadcrumbs, and classic pantry spices. The combination rivals anything you would get at a steakhouse but is completely doable in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

  • Boneless pork chops: Look for thick cut pork chops at least one inch for the juiciest result
  • Parmesan cheese: For best flavor and crunch grate your own cheese just before cooking
  • Italian seasoned breadcrumbs: Buy a good quality brand or add your own dried basil and oregano for extra flavor
  • Paprika: Adds subtle warmth and depth
  • Dried parsley: For fresh herby flavor and a touch of color choose a bright green dried parsley without yellowing
  • Garlic powder: Gives the crust a savory kick use a fresh container for the strongest smell
  • Black pepper: Freshly cracked is ideal for best taste and aroma
  • Large eggs: Whisk until fully combined eggs keep the breading sticking to the pork
  • Olive oil: Use just enough to coat the bottom of your pan for an even golden seared crust
  • Fresh parsley: Optional garnish but highly recommended for brightness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit so it is thoroughly heated for baking the pork chops
Make the Coating:
In a wide shallow bowl add grated Parmesan Italian breadcrumbs paprika parsley garlic powder and black pepper Stir everything until fully blended so each coating will taste the same
Prepare the Eggs:
Crack the eggs into a different shallow dish Beat them very well so there are no streaks This helps coat the pork chops evenly
Season and Prep the Pork:
Pat each pork chop dry with paper towels to help the coating stick well Sprinkle both sides lightly with salt and pepper for seasoning
Bread the Chops:
One at a time dip each pork chop in the beaten egg Let the extra drip off Next press both sides firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture Once coated nestle onto a clean plate
Sear the Pork:
Pour olive oil into an oven safe skillet and heat over medium high heat Wait until the oil shimmers so the crust sears not steams Add the pork chops in a single layer Sear each side for two or three minutes until deep golden brown
Finish in the Oven:
Transfer the whole skillet to your hot oven Bake for about ten to twelve minutes The pork is ready once it reaches one hundred forty five degrees Fahrenheit and feels firm
Rest and Serve:
Once out of the oven let the pork chops rest for five minutes This makes them extra juicy Add chopped parsley and bring straight to the table
A plate of Parmesan-Crusted Pork Chops. Bookmark
A plate of Parmesan-Crusted Pork Chops. | foodbymary.com

Storage Tips

Once cooled store the pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days For longer storage you can wrap each chop tightly in foil then freeze in a freezer bag for up to three months To reheat use your oven or air fryer so the crust stays crisp Avoid the microwave if possible since it tends to soften the coating

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have Italian breadcrumbs just mix plain breadcrumbs with dried basil oregano or thyme Swap in Pecorino Romano for the Parmesan if you love a bolder cheese For gluten free use your favorite GF breadcrumbs or ground up pork rinds for extra crunch

Serving Suggestions

These pork chops love classic sides Roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus work well Mashed potatoes or crisp roasted potatoes are comfort food favorites A tangy side salad or a big bowl of fluffy rice rounds out the meal beautifully

A plate of Parmesan-crusted pork chops. Bookmark
A plate of Parmesan-crusted pork chops. | foodbymary.com

Cultural or Historical Context

Parmesan crusted meats are a take on classic Italian techniques blending savory cheese and breadcrumbs for texture and flavor While Italy claims the origins American kitchens have made the method their own especially for quick weeknight dinners

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of pork chops work best?

Thick-cut, boneless pork chops are ideal for maximum juiciness and even cooking.

→ How do I get a crispy crust?

Press the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the pork and sear in a hot skillet before baking.

→ Can I bake them without searing?

Yes, you can bake directly on a sheet at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping once for even browning.

→ What are good side dishes?

Pair with roasted vegetables, potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer for crispiness.

→ Can I use different seasonings?

Absolutely! Oregano, thyme, or a touch of cayenne can personalize the flavor to your preference.

Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops

Tender pork chops with a golden Parmesan crust; crisp outside, juicy inside, and packed with herby flavor.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
20 minutes
Overall Time
35 minutes
Recipe Author: Maria

Dish Category: Main Dishes

Recipe Difficulty: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine: American

Serves: 4 Serving Size

Dietary Options: ~

What You’ll Need to Cook

→ Main Ingredients

Ingredient 01 4 boneless pork chops, approximately 2.5 cm thick
Ingredient 02 1 cup (80 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Ingredient 03 120 ml Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
Ingredient 04 1 teaspoon (2.5 g) paprika
Ingredient 05 1 teaspoon (1 g) dried parsley
Ingredient 06 0.5 teaspoon (1.5 g) garlic powder
Ingredient 07 0.25 teaspoon (0.5 g) ground black pepper
Ingredient 08 2 large eggs, beaten
Ingredient 09 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
Ingredient 10 Fine salt, to taste
Ingredient 11 Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Steps to Prepare

Step 01

Set the oven to 200°C. Ensure rack is placed in the centre position.

Step 02

In a shallow bowl, combine grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, paprika, dried parsley, garlic powder, and black pepper. In a separate shallow dish, beat the eggs until smooth.

Step 03

Pat pork chops thoroughly dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and additional pepper if desired.

Step 04

Dip each pork chop into the beaten egg, allowing the excess to drip off. Press into the Parmesan mixture to coat thoroughly, ensuring the breading adheres firmly.

Step 05

Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large oven-safe skillet. Lay breaded pork chops into the pan and sear for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.

Step 06

Transfer the skillet directly to the preheated oven. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 63°C.

Step 07

Remove skillet from the oven and allow pork chops to rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Extra Cooking Tips

  1. For optimal crust adhesion, press the Parmesan mixture gently but firmly onto the meat after dipping in egg.
  2. A cast-iron skillet provides the best sear and heat retention.
  3. For a stoveless option, bake breaded pork chops on a parchment-lined tray at 200°C for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
  4. For a quicker method, use an air fryer preheated to 193°C, spraying breaded chops lightly with oil; cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping at midpoint.
  5. Thicker chops, about 2.5 cm, help prevent dryness and yield juicier results.

Must-Have Tools

  • Oven-safe skillet, preferably cast iron
  • Shallow bowls for coating and egg wash
  • Tongs
  • Instant-read thermometer
  • Paper towels

Allergen Information

Always check ingredient labels for allergens and seek expert advice if uncertain.
  • Contains milk (Parmesan cheese)
  • Contains egg
  • Contains gluten (breadcrumbs)

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

These details are for guidance and aren’t a replacement for professional advice.
  • Calories Count: 465
  • Fats: ~
  • Carbs: ~
  • Proteins: ~