These herb-crusted pork chops are perfect for dinner! They are juicy and packed with flavor from a yummy mix of herbs. Just a little seasoning can turn an ordinary meal into something special!
I love how easy they are to cook—just season, bake, and enjoy! Plus, the crispy crust makes every bite a delight. Serve with veggies for a full meal that looks fancy but is super simple! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are best for flavor and juiciness. If you prefer boneless, just adjust cooking time slightly, as they cook faster.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs create a great crunchy texture. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will work too, but they won’t be as crispy.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nice cheesy flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, you could use nutritional yeast or omit it altogether, although it changes the flavor.
Herbs: Thyme, rosemary, and sage all work wonderfully together. If you have fresh herbs, they can be used instead of dried; just double the amount since fresh herbs are less potent.
Eggs: These help the coating stick. If you’re looking for a vegan option, try using a mixture of flaxseed meal and water as a binder.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Crispy Pork Chops?
The key to achieving a nice crispy texture is in the preparation! Start by ensuring your pork chops are dry—this helps the coating adhere better.
- Coat the chops in egg thoroughly to let the breadcrumb mixture stick.
- Press firmly into the panko blend to ensure it clings well to the meat.
- Searing the pork chops in a hot skillet gives that golden-brown crust. Don’t rush this step—let them cook undisturbed.
- Finish cooking in the oven for even cooking and to retain juiciness. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 145°F (63°C).
Letting the pork chops rest for a few minutes after baking helps keep them juicy. Enjoy your meal! 😊
Herb Crusted Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tsp dried rosemary, chopped finely
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh rosemary or sage sprigs (for garnish)
- Optional: a small bowl of melted butter or olive oil for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus an additional 20 minutes for searing and baking. In total, you’ll need around 35 minutes to get your delicious herb-crusted pork chops ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper so your pork chops won’t stick.
2. Make the Coating Mixture:
In a shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried thyme, chopped rosemary, dried sage, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure all the herbs and spices are distributed evenly in the breadcrumbs.
3. Prepare the Eggs:
In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs until they’re nice and smooth. This will help the crumb mixture stick to the pork chops.
4. Dry the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the coating stick better!
5. Coat the Pork Chops:
Dip each pork chop into the beaten eggs, coating both sides thoroughly. Make sure they are fully covered in egg, then press each chop into the herb-panko mixture, ensuring the coating covers both sides and edges well.
6. Sear the Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Bake to Perfection:
After searing, transfer the pork chops to your prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 8 to 12 minutes, depending on the thickness of your chops. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Rest and Garnish:
Once done, take the pork chops out of the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps keep them juicy. You can drizzle a little melted butter or olive oil over the top for extra flavor. Garnish with fresh rosemary or sage sprigs for a beautiful presentation!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your warm, crispy herb-crusted pork chops and enjoy every flavorful bite—perfect for any dinner occasion! Bon appétit!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Boneless pork chops are great for this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they will cook more quickly than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I Prepare the Coating Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can mix the panko and seasonings in advance and store the mixture in an airtight container. Just make sure to use it within a week for the best flavor and freshness.
What Should I Serve with Herb Crusted Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with a light sauce to complement their flavors!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at a low temperature to maintain their crispy texture, or microwave them gently.
