Parmesan Baked Pork Chops – Page 2

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better and promotes even baking.
In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Rub each pork chop with olive oil (or butter), then season all sides generously with the spice mix.

In a shallow bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs or panko, parsley, and lemon zest.
Stir to ensure even distribution of ingredients.

Press each pork chop firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it sticks to all sides.
For a thicker crust, press a second layer on after the first.

Arrange the chops on your prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, depending on the thickness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness: the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2–3 minutes, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges, if desired.

Suggested Sides

These Parmesan Baked Pork Chops pair beautifully with a variety of sides:

For a light, low-carb option, try cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles.

1. Panko vs. Breadcrumbs:
Use panko for extra crispness or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for more flavor.

2. Cheese Options:
Parmesan is ideal, but you can substitute with Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano, or even a blend with sharp cheddar.

3. Herbs:
Swap parsley for basil, thyme, or rosemary based on your preference.

4. Bone-in Pork Chops:
If using bone-in chops, add 5–7 minutes to the baking time.

5. Air Fryer Method:
Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Cook for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway.