Ingredients:

  • 4 Bone-in pork loin chops (about 1 inch / 2.5 cm thick), trimmed of excess fat (approx. 680g total)
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) Fine sea salt
  • ½ tsp (2.5 ml) Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) Garlic powder
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) Smoked paprika (sweet)
  • ½ tsp (2.5 ml) Onion powder
  • ½ cup (65g) All-purpose flour
  • 2 Large eggs
  • 1 Tbsp (15 ml) Whole milk or water (optional, to thin the wash)
  • 2 cups (120g) Panko breadcrumbs (Japanese style, crucial for crispness)
  • High-heat cooking spray (such as rapeseed/canola or avocado oil) OR 2 Tbsp (30 ml) Neutral oil for brushing/misting

Instructions:

  1. Pound the Chops: Place the pork chops between two sheets of cling film or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet, gently pound the thick end of the chops until they are uniformly ¾-inch (2 cm) thick. This ensures even cooking.
  2. Combine Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder.
  3. Season: Pat the chops dry completely with kitchen roll. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops.
  4. Set Up Dishes: Prepare the three shallow dishes in a row: Dish 1: Flour. Dish 2: Whisk the eggs and milk/water until smooth. Dish 3: Panko breadcrumbs.
  5. Dredge (The Triple Dip): Working one chop at a time: Dredge the chop fully in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip the chop into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off. Firmly press the chop into the Panko breadcrumbs, ensuring the entire surface is coated. Pat the crumbs on firmly.
  6. Chill: Place the breaded chops onto a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. This crucial step helps the coating adhere and prevents shedding.
  7. Preheat and Spray: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the inside of the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  8. Load and Oil: Place the chops in the basket, ensuring they do not touch (you will likely need to cook in batches). Generously spray the tops and sides of the breaded chops with cooking spray until they look slightly damp.
  9. First Cook: Air fry for 6-7 minutes.
  10. Flip and Finish: Carefully flip the chops. Spray the newly exposed side generously with oil. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) at its thickest point.
  11. Rest: Transfer the cooked chops to a clean plate or cutting board and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.