1. Juicy & Flavorful : The parmesan crust seals in moisture while adding bold flavor.
2. Quick & Easy : Ready in under 45 minutes with minimal prep work.
3. One-Pan Wonder : Minimal cleanup makes this recipe perfect for busy nights.
4. Customizable : Add spices, herbs, or sides to suit your taste.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion : Elegant enough for dinner parties but simple enough for everyday meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Serves 4

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick; boneless works too)
• Salt and pepper , to taste
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped)
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
• 2 large eggs , beaten
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Optional Sides:

• Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs.

Step 3: Coat the Pork Chops

1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Dip each pork chop into the beaten eggs, ensuring they’re fully coated.
3. Press the egg-coated pork chops into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to adhere the coating evenly on both sides.

Step 4: Sear the Pork Chops

1. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the coated pork chops for 2–3 minutes per side , until the coating is golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Bake

1. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes , or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C) .
2. Remove from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Why This Recipe Works

• Parmesan Magic : The nutty, salty flavor of Parmesan adds depth and richness to the crispy coating.
• Panko Crunch : Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crispier crust than traditional breadcrumbs.
• Bone-In Juiciness : Bone-in pork chops stay juicier during cooking, but boneless chops work well too if you prefer.

Variations to Try

• Add Heat : Stir red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herb Infusion : Use fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil for extra aromatic flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option : Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for the panko.
• Creamy Sauce : Serve with a side of garlic butter sauce or mushroom gravy for extra indulgence.
• Veggie Twist : Add finely grated carrots or zucchini to the breadcrumb mixture for a hidden veggie boost.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Skip Resting : Letting the pork chops rest ensures the juices redistribute, keeping them moist and tender.
• Avoid Overcooking : Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops don’t dry out—145°F (63°C) is the sweet spot.
• Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

• Romantic Touch : Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for elegance.
• Brunch Staple : Pair with roasted potatoes, green beans, or a Caesar salad for a complete meal.
• Party Platter : Serve alongside other mains like grilled chicken or baked salmon for variety.

Final Thoughts

These Parmesan Baked Pork Chops are a celebration of bold flavors, crispy textures, and effortless indulgence, offering a dish that feels luxurious yet approachable. With their customizable options, endless charm, and ease of preparation, they’re a recipe that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual snack, or simply craving something satisfying.

Your Turn! Have you ever made pork chops with a cheesy crust or experimented with breadcrumb coatings? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below. 🥓