Air Fryer Panko-Crusted Pork Chops

These panko-crusted pork chops, prepared in the air fryer, are enhanced by a simple brine. With just a few seasonings in the crust, the chops are tender, juicy, and crispy.

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Calories: 278 Calories

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons white sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 1 large bay leaf
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 4 cups water, divided
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• extra-virgin olive oil cooking spray
• 4 (6 ounce) pork chops, about 1/2-inch thick
• 1 sprig of fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
• 1 sprig of rosemary for garnish (optional)

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

Step 2

Pour 1 cup water in a 4-cup microwave-safe measuring cup. Microwave until boiling, about 4 minutes. Stir in kosher salt and sugar, until dissolved. Add remaining 3 cups water to make a brine.

Step 3

Place rosemary sprig and bay leaf in a 1-gallon zip-top bag. Carefully pour in brine and add pork chops. Seal the bag, removing as much air as possible, and refrigerate about 2 hours.

Step 4

Remove chops from the brine and discard the brine. Pat chops dry with paper towels.

Step 5

Break egg into a shallow bowl and beat lightly. Combine panko, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning blend, and black pepper, and place on a plate or cutting board. Dip each pork chop in the egg, then coat all sides with the panko mixture. Spray both sides of the coated chops with extra-virgin olive oil.

Step 6

Place chops in the air fryer in a single layer, with chops not touching, and air-fry for 7 to 8 minutes per side, for a total of 14 to 16 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the chops should read 145 degrees F (63 degrees C).

Step 7

Serve warm, garnished with parsley and additional rosemary sprigs, if desired.