Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops

Crispy Perfection: The Ultimate Air Fryer Shake ‘N Bake Pork Chops Recipe for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Discover the secret to making incredibly tender and beautifully golden-brown Air Fryer Shake ‘N Bake Pork Chops. With a perfectly crispy breading and a classic, savory seasoning mixture, this recipe is destined to become a staple in your family’s meal rotation. The convenience of your air fryer ensures these pork chops are cooked to perfection in record time, offering all the satisfying crunch you desire with less oil. It’s the ideal solution for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture, providing a delightful meal that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly delicious.

Golden crispy pork chops sliced and served on a white plate with salad

Shake and Bake Pork Chops: A Deliciously Easy Meal for Any Occasion

These scrumptious, juicy pork chops are a true culinary delight, making for a fantastic meal that’s ready to eat in just a short period of time. Making this dish is incredibly easy, requiring only a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a fast and flavorful solution, or for any type of gathering where you want to serve something impressive yet simple to prepare.

The beauty of this recipe extends beyond its quick preparation and cooking time. Imagine taking these flavorful chops to a potluck, a casual picnic at the beach, or serving them as the star of a tasty family dinner – they are always a crowd-pleaser! The classic combination of crispy breading and tender pork is elevated by the air fryer method, delivering a healthier and more efficient cooking experience. If you love easy and delicious air fryer recipes, you’ll also want to try our Air Fryer Pork Steaks, Air Fryer Shake and Bake Chicken, Air Fryer Chicken Wings, or Air Fryer Turkey Breast.

Why Air Fryer Shake ‘N Bake Pork Chops are a Must-Try

Choosing your air fryer to prepare Shake ‘N Bake pork chops offers a range of significant benefits that far surpass traditional oven baking or pan-frying. The air fryer’s mechanism of circulating hot air ensures a consistently even cook and develops an incredibly crispy crust with minimal oil. This method means you can enjoy that satisfying crunch and rich flavor with fewer calories and significantly less cleanup. Say goodbye to greasy stovetops and unevenly cooked meat; the air fryer promises perfect, golden-brown results every single time.

The Enduring Magic of Shake ‘N Bake

Shake ‘N Bake has held its place as a cherished kitchen staple for generations, and for very good reason. This convenient product provides a perfectly portioned blend of seasoned breadcrumbs that eliminates all the fuss from seasoning and coating your meat. When paired with the efficiency and crisping power of the air fryer, Shake ‘N Bake truly shines. It creates a beautiful, golden, and flavorful crust that expertly seals in the natural juices of the pork chop, guaranteeing a tender interior. It’s the ultimate shortcut to achieving a homemade-tasting meal with incredible ease and minimal preparation.

Key Benefits of Air Frying Pork Chops

  • Healthier Preparation: Achieve perfectly crispy results using significantly less oil compared to deep-frying or traditional pan-frying methods. This makes for a lighter, guilt-free meal.
  • Accelerated Cook Time: Air fryers cook food much faster than conventional ovens, drastically cutting down on your meal preparation time, which is perfect for busy schedules.
  • Unmatched Crispiness: The powerful, rapid circulation of hot air within the air fryer basket creates an irresistibly crispy and crunchy coating that’s difficult to achieve with other cooking methods.
  • Effortless Cleanup: Most air fryer baskets feature non-stick surfaces and are dishwasher-safe, simplifying your post-meal cleanup routine to just a few easy steps.
  • Consistently Perfect Results: Enjoy uniformly cooked and beautifully browned pork chops every single time, thanks to the even heat distribution of the air fryer.
  • Energy Efficiency: For smaller meals or individual portions, air fryers typically use less energy than a full-sized oven, making them a more eco-friendly and cost-effective cooking appliance.

Essential Ingredients for Your Crispy Pork Chops

Crafting these delectable Air Fryer Shake ‘N Bake Pork Chops requires only a handful of readily available ingredients. You’ll likely find most of these items already stocked in your pantry or refrigerator, making this an excellent go-to recipe for those spontaneous dinner plans. The stars of the show are succulent pork chops, a touch of tangy Dijon mustard to help the coating adhere, and, of course, the celebrated Shake ‘N Bake mix.

Ingredients on a white marble table to make shake and bake pork chops
  • Pork Chops, 1/2 inch in thickness: For the most consistent and quickest cooking, we highly recommend using boneless pork chops around 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. However, bone-in pork chops can also be used, but be prepared to add an extra 1-3 minutes to the cooking time to ensure they reach the proper internal temperature.
  • Dijon Mustard: This ingredient is crucial! It serves as an excellent binder, helping the breading mixture adhere perfectly to the surface of the pork chops. Beyond its functional role, it also imparts a subtle, tangy flavor that beautifully complements the savory seasoning blend. Any good quality smooth Dijon mustard will work.
  • Original Pork Packet Shake ‘N Bake: For maximum convenience and a familiar, delicious flavor, a packet of the original pork flavor Shake ‘N Bake is ideal. If you prefer a more customized approach or wish to control the ingredients, our homemade recipe below offers a fantastic alternative.

Ingredients for Homemade Shake ‘N Bake Breading Mix (Optional)

If you don’t have a packet of Shake ‘N Bake readily available, or if you simply prefer to make your own breading from scratch, it’s incredibly simple! Crafting your own mix allows for personalized flavor adjustments and is a great way to control the ingredients. This blend of common pantry items creates a wonderfully crispy and flavorful coating that easily rivals the store-bought version.

  • Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs: These form the foundation of our homemade breading, providing both essential flavor and a desirable crunchy texture. If you only have plain breadcrumbs, you can still use them by increasing the amounts of the other spices to taste.
  • Kosher Salt: A fundamental seasoning that not only adds its own flavor but also enhances all the other aromatic components in the mix.
  • Paprika: Contributes a lovely reddish-orange hue and a mild, sweet peppery note. For a deeper, smoky dimension, feel free to substitute with smoked paprika.
  • Garlic Powder: A classic flavor enhancer that infuses the breading with a warm, aromatic kick, complementing the pork beautifully.
  • Ground Black Pepper: Included to add a subtle hint of spice and to help balance the overall flavor profile of the breading.

Step-by-Step Directions: How to Prepare Crispy Air Fryer Shake ‘N Bake Pork Chops

Follow these straightforward steps to achieve perfectly crispy and wonderfully juicy pork chops using your air fryer. The entire process is quick and hassle-free, guaranteeing a stress-free cooking experience from start to finish.

  1. Prepare Your Pork Chops

    Begin by carefully removing the pork chops from their packaging. Lay them flat on a clean cutting board. Using paper towels, pat them thoroughly dry on both sides. This crucial step is vital as it removes excess moisture, which in turn helps the Dijon mustard and breading mixture adhere much better, ensuring a crispier and more satisfying coating on your finished chops.

  2. Coat with Dijon Mustard

    Next, lightly and evenly coat both sides of each pork chop with Dijon mustard. You don’t need a thick layer; just a thin, even spread is sufficient to create a sticky surface. This not only acts as an excellent binder for the breading but also introduces a subtle tangy flavor that beautifully complements the forthcoming seasoning and helps retain the moisture within the chops during the air frying process.

    Uncooked pork chops on a white plate being coated with Dijon mustard

  3. Apply the Shake ‘N Bake Coating

    Pour your preferred breading mixture—whether it’s the convenient store-bought packet or your flavorful homemade version—into a large, resealable plastic bag. Carefully place the mustard-coated pork chops into the bag. Securely seal the bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible, then shake vigorously until each pork chop is thoroughly and evenly coated with the breadcrumb mixture. Aim for full coverage to ensure maximum crispiness and flavor in every bite.

    Uncooked pork chops in a plastic bags with seasonings and breadcrumbs to coat

  4. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

    To prevent any sticking and ensure an ideally crisp bottom on your pork chops, lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil cooking spray. Alternatively, you can opt to line the basket with an air fryer perforated parchment sheet, which not only helps prevent sticking but also aids significantly in easier cleanup. Carefully arrange the coated pork chops in a single layer within the basket, being mindful not to overlap them. Overlapping can obstruct proper air circulation, leading to uneven cooking and a less crispy result.

    Uncooked coated pork chops in the air fryer basket

  5. Air Fry to Crispy Perfection

    Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200°C). Once it’s up to temperature, carefully place the prepared pork chops into the basket and cook for 8-10 minutes. For optimal crisping and even cooking on both sides, be sure to flip the chops halfway through the cooking process (typically around the 4-5 minute mark). The precise cooking time may vary slightly (by 1-3 minutes) depending on the thickness of your pork chops and the specific wattage and model of your air fryer. Always use a reliable meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the thickest part of the meat reaches a safe and juicy 145 degrees F (63°C). This guarantees tender, perfectly cooked pork every single time, avoiding any dryness.

    Golden crispy coated pork chops in the air fryer basket

I consistently achieve outstanding results using my Cosori 5.8 qt. air fryer for this recipe. However, it’s important to remember that different air fryer models can vary significantly in size and wattage. Therefore, you might find it necessary to adjust the cooking time by 1-2 minutes to suit your specific appliance. Always prioritize using a meat thermometer to ensure your pork chops reach the safe and delicious internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Expert Tips for Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Pork Chops

While this recipe for Air Fryer Shake ‘N Bake Pork Chops is inherently straightforward and forgiving, incorporating a few expert tips can elevate your dish from simply good to absolutely phenomenal. These simple techniques will help ensure your pork chops are consistently juicy on the inside and irresistibly crispy on the outside.

Pork Chop Selection and Preparation

  • Thickness Matters: For the best and most consistent results, aim for pork chops that are approximately 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Thicker chops will require a longer cooking time and run a higher risk of drying out before the breading reaches its ideal crispiness. Conversely, thinner chops will cook very quickly, so they demand a watchful eye to prevent overcooking.
  • Pat Dry Thoroughly: Do not skip the crucial step of patting your pork chops dry with paper towels. Any excess surface moisture can create steam, which inhibits the breading from sticking properly and achieving that coveted crisp texture. A dry surface is key to a perfectly crunchy crust.
  • Bring to Room Temperature for Even Cooking: For optimal and more even cooking results, allow your pork chops to rest at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before you begin coating and cooking them. This practice helps to prevent the exterior from overcooking and becoming tough while the interior is still struggling to warm up.

Achieving Maximum Crispiness

  • Ensure an Even Coating: It’s paramount that every surface of your pork chop is thoroughly coated with the breading mixture. Any bare spots will not crisp up properly and can result in an uneven texture throughout the dish. The mustard acts as your sticky canvas, so ensure it’s fully covered.
  • Light Oil Spray is Your Friend: Just before placing the coated chops into the air fryer, give them a quick, light spray of olive oil cooking spray. This simple step significantly enhances the golden color and contributes to an even more satisfying crispiness of the breading.
  • Never Overcrowd the Air Fryer: This is one of the most critical rules for air frying. Always arrange your pork chops in a single layer, ensuring there is ample space around each piece for the hot air to circulate freely. If your air fryer basket is too small to accommodate all the chops in one go, cook them in separate batches. Overcrowding leads to steaming rather than crisping, resulting in soggy chops.
  • Flip Halfway: Flipping the pork chops halfway through their cooking time is essential. This ensures that both sides of the chops receive direct exposure to the circulating hot air, guaranteeing an all-around crispy and evenly browned crust.

Internal Temperature is Key to Juiciness

For safe consumption and to achieve the most tender and juicy results, pork is considered perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Using a reliable meat thermometer is the most accurate and foolproof way to ensure your pork chops are cooked to perfection – they will be deliciously tender on the inside, without any risk of becoming overcooked and dry. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chop, taking care to avoid touching any bone if your chops are bone-in.

Always Rest Your Meat

Once your pork chops are cooked to the ideal internal temperature, transfer them from the air fryer basket to a clean plate or cutting board. Allow them to rest for at least 3-5 minutes before you begin slicing or serving. This vital resting period permits the juices within the meat to redistribute throughout the chop, which results in a noticeably more tender, succulent, and flavorful eating experience.

Delicious Variations & Flavor Boosts

While the classic Air Fryer Shake ‘N Bake Pork Chops are undeniably fantastic on their own, don’t hesitate to unleash your culinary creativity! The air fryer is a wonderfully versatile appliance that encourages experimentation. Here are some ideas to customize your pork chops and add exciting new layers of flavor:

  • For a Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, a few red pepper flakes, or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce directly into the Dijon mustard before you coat the pork. This will infuse a delightful warmth into every bite.
  • An Herbal Infusion: Elevate the aroma and taste by mixing dried herbs such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary into your homemade breading mixture. These herbs pair wonderfully with pork and add a gourmet touch.
  • Cheesy Goodness: For an extra layer of savory, umami flavor and an even crispier texture, finely grated Parmesan cheese can be a fantastic addition to your breading mix. It forms a delicious, golden-brown crust.
  • Sweet & Savory Twists: A hint of sweetness can beautifully complement the savory pork. Try mixing a small amount of brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup into the Dijon mustard. This creates a subtle caramelized glaze underneath the crispy coating, adding complex depth.
  • Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with high-quality gluten-free breadcrumbs in your homemade mix. Alternatively, many brands now offer gluten-free seasoned coating mixes that work perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Shake ‘N Bake Pork Chops

What are some excellent side dishes to serve with Air Fryer Shake ‘N Bake Pork Chops?

These incredibly versatile pork chops pair wonderfully with a diverse range of side dishes, making them adaptable for any meal. For a quintessential summer feast, consider serving them alongside a classic creamy potato salad, crisp coleslaw, or fresh corn on the cob. They also taste incredibly delicious with a vibrant, crisp green salad, accompanied by a slice (or two!) of garlicky cheese bread for extra indulgence. For heartier options, try rich caramelized Brussels sprouts, an aromatic mushroom rice pilaf, or simple steamed green beans tossed with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The tender interior and crispy exterior of these pork chops allow them to complement both light, fresh accompaniments and more robust, comforting sides.

How can I store leftover Shake ‘N Bake Pork Chops and reheat them for best results?

To properly store any delicious leftover pork chops, first ensure they have cooled completely to room temperature. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container or a high-quality resealable storage bag. They will keep fresh in your refrigerator for 3-4 days. For extended storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months by following the same cooling and airtight packaging process. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw frozen chops overnight in the refrigerator. For the absolute best reheating results that preserve their crispy texture, we highly recommend using your air fryer. Reheat the pork chops at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until they are thoroughly heated through and have regained their delightful crispiness. This method is far superior to using a microwave, which can often make them soggy.

What are a few different breading mixtures that I can use to make this dish extra crispy?

Beyond the convenience of Shake ‘N Bake seasonings, there are numerous excellent alternatives for creating a wonderfully crispy crust on your pork chops. For a classic and reliable crunch, you can use either plain or Italian seasoned breadcrumbs. If you’re aiming for an even lighter and distinctly crispier texture, panko bread crumbs are an exceptional choice, known for their airy quality. For those following a low-carb diet or seeking a unique flavor, finely ground pork rinds make an incredibly crisp and savory coating. You could also experiment with a finely crushed nut mixture (such as almonds or pecans) for a gourmet touch, or even cornflake crumbs for a different kind of satisfying crunch. Remember, when using plain breadcrumbs, it’s essential to season your mix generously with your favorite spices to build flavor!

Can I use bone-in pork chops for this Air Fryer Shake ‘N Bake recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe primarily specifies boneless chops for their quicker cooking time, bone-in pork chops are a perfectly viable and delicious option. Be aware that bone-in chops are typically thicker and will therefore require an additional 2-5 minutes of cooking time compared to their boneless counterparts. It is always crucial to use a reliable meat thermometer to verify that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part of the meat, taking care to avoid contact with the bone itself for an accurate reading.

Do I need to preheat my air fryer for this recipe?

While some air fryer models and recipes may suggest that preheating isn’t strictly necessary, for this particular recipe, I highly recommend it. Preheating your air fryer ensures that the appliance is at its optimal cooking temperature from the very moment the pork chops are placed inside. This immediate exposure to hot air is key to achieving a much crispier exterior and promoting more even cooking throughout the chop. Typically, just 3-5 minutes at 400°F (200°C) is sufficient for a good preheat.

What if my air fryer is smaller or larger than the recommended size?

Air fryer models indeed vary considerably in both size and wattage, which can influence cooking times. If you own a smaller air fryer, you may need to cook your pork chops in multiple batches to prevent overcrowding the basket. Overcrowding inhibits proper air circulation and can lead to steaming, resulting in less crispy chops. For larger, more powerful air fryers, you might find that the cooking time is slightly shorter, so it’s wise to start checking for doneness a couple of minutes earlier. Regardless of your air fryer’s size, always ensure the pork chops are arranged in a single layer and rely on a meat thermometer for the most accurate and safe cooking results.

Golden crispy pork chops on a white plate after being cooked in the air fryer

MORE DELICIOUS AIR FRYER PORK RECIPES TO EXPLORE:

  • Sweet & Savory Air Fryer Maple Glazed Pork Chops
  • Flavorful Air Fryer Teriyaki Pork Chops
  • Simple & Classic Air Fryer Pork Chops
  • Juicy Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin
  • Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

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Golden crispy pork chop sliced on a white plate with salad and a fork

4.67 from 3 votes
Servings: 4

Air Fryer Shake ‘N Bake Pork Chops

By Becky
These Air Fryer Shake and Bake Pork Chops are incredibly crispy, boasting a perfectly seasoned breading and tender, juicy meat inside. They are sure to be a delightful family favorite for any meal occasion, especially those busy weeknights when you need a quick and delicious dinner.
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 8 minutes
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Equipment

  • 1 Air Fryer (e.g., Cosori 5.8 qt. air fryer for optimal results)

Ingredients

  • 4 pork chops, boneless or bone-in, 1/2 to 3/4 inch in thickness
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 packet Pork Shake ‘N Bake Seasoning
  • Light olive oil spray

For Homemade Shake ‘N Bake Breading Mix (Optional):

  • 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
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Instructions

  • Remove pork chops from their packaging and place them on a clean cutting board. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure optimal breading adhesion.
  • Lightly coat both sides of each pork chop with Dijon mustard. This thin layer acts as a binder and adds a subtle, delicious tang.
  • Pour the store-bought Shake ‘N Bake packet mixture, or your homemade breading, into a large resealable plastic bag. Place the mustard-coated pork chops into the bag, seal tightly, and shake vigorously until they are fully and evenly coated.
  • Lightly spray your air fryer basket with olive oil, or line it with a perforated parchment sheet. Arrange the coated pork chops in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they do not overlap to allow proper air circulation.
  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the pork chops for 8-10 minutes. Flip the chops halfway through the cooking process (around 4-5 minutes) to ensure even crisping. Cooking time may vary by 1-3 minutes depending on chop thickness and air fryer model. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Rest for 3-5 minutes before serving for maximum juiciness.

Notes and Pro Tips