Chicken Fried Pork Chops: Southern Comfort on a Plate

Quick Info:

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4-6

Difficulty: Moderate

Diet: Not Vegetarian

Equipment:

• Cast iron skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Meat mallet
• Tongs
• Paper towels/wire rack

Ingredients:

• 4-6 boneless pork chops (1/3-1/2 inch thick)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2-3 eggs
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
• Vegetable oil for frying

Seasonings:

• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder

Pro Tips Before Cooking:

• Pound chops evenly for consistent cooking
• Let breaded chops rest before frying
• Maintain oil temperature between 350-365°F

Method:

1. Pound pork chops to even 1/3-inch thickness
2. Create three dredging stations:
   • Station 1: Seasoned flour mixture
   • Station 2: Beaten eggs + buttermilk
   • Station 3: Seasoned bread crumbs
3. Coat chops:
   • Dip in seasoned flour
   • Coat in egg wash
   • Roll in bread crumbs
   • Let rest 5-10 minutes
4. Heat oil in cast iron skillet to 350°F
5. Fry chops 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown
   • Internal temperature should reach 145°F
   • Work in batches to avoid overcrowding
6. Drain on wire rack or paper towels

Optional Pan Gravy:

• Use skillet drippings
• Whisk in 2 tbsp flour
• Slowly add 1 cup milk
• Season and simmer until thickened

Crucial Storage Tips:

• Refrigerate within 2 hours
• Store in airtight container
• Consume within 2-3 days
• Reheat in oven to maintain crispiness

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan
• Maintain consistent oil temperature
• Rest breaded chops before frying
• Use a meat thermometer

Variations:

• Gluten-free: Use almond flour
• Spicy version: Add cayenne to breading
• Air fryer method: 380°F, 12-15 minutes

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 380-420
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbs: 15g

Serving Suggestions:

• Mashed potatoes
• Green beans
• Coleslaw
• Cornbread

The ultimate Southern comfort food awaits – crispy, golden chicken fried pork chops that’ll make your taste buds sing!