Looking for a down-home, Southern-style meal that’s crispy, flavorful, and comforting? Look no further than Country Fried Pork Chops! This recipe features juicy pork chops coated in a seasoned flour batter and fried to golden perfection. Served with classic sides like mashed potatoes, gravy, or greens, this dish is a surefire hit for a satisfying, hearty dinner. Ready to dig into some Southern comfort food? Let’s get cooking and make these irresistibly crispy, tender Country Fried Pork Chops!
What Are Country Fried Pork Chops?
Country Fried Pork Chops are a Southern-style dish where bone-in or boneless pork chops are breaded and fried until crispy and golden. The breading is usually a mix of flour and seasonings, which creates a flavorful crust that seals in the pork’s natural juices, resulting in a tender, juicy center. Country fried pork chops are often served with a rich gravy made from the pan drippings, adding even more flavor to this classic comfort food.
Ingredients List for Country Fried Pork Chops
To make these crispy, juicy Country Fried Pork Chops, you'll need the following ingredients:
Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about ¾ to 1 inch thick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Gravy (Optional, but recommended):
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (from leftover dredging mixture)
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth or milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
Substitutions and Variations
Here are some substitutions and variations to suit your dietary needs or taste preferences:
- Pork Chop Variations:
- Use bone-in pork chops for more flavor, or boneless pork chops for quicker cooking.
- You can also substitute the pork chops with chicken breasts or thighs for a variation of this dish.
- Flour Coating Alternatives:
- For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for dredging the pork chops.
- Add panko breadcrumbs to the flour mixture for a crunchier texture, or substitute with crushed crackers for a different flavor twist.
- Spice Adjustments:
- Add a little more cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for extra heat.
- For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
- Gravy Alternatives:
- Instead of a traditional white gravy, try a peppercorn gravy or a rich mushroom gravy to serve with the pork chops.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make crispy and delicious Country Fried Pork Chops from scratch:
Step 1: Season the Pork Chops
- Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and generously season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using), and sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly on both sides of the pork chops.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
- Set up a dredging station with two shallow bowls. In one bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. In the other bowl, place the flour, seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Dredge each pork chop in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally dredge it again in the flour, pressing the flour mixture into the pork chops to ensure a good coating.
Step 3: Fry the Pork Chops
- Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking (about 350°F or 175°C).
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the pork chops in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Keep them warm in a low oven (about 200°F) if you’re making them in batches.
Step 4: Make the Gravy (Optional)
- After frying the pork chops, pour off most of the oil from the skillet, leaving about 2 tablespoons along with any browned bits.
- Add 2 tablespoons of the leftover seasoned flour to the skillet and whisk it into the oil over medium heat to form a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes until the flour is golden and bubbly.
- Slowly whisk in 1 ½ cups of chicken broth or milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let the gravy simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter for extra richness, then remove the gravy from the heat.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the country fried pork chops hot, drizzled with the gravy, if desired. Pair with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or collard greens.
How to Cook Country Fried Pork Chops: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making perfect Country Fried Pork Chops requires attention to detail. Follow these key tips to ensure a delicious outcome:
- Pat the Pork Chops Dry: Dry pork chops will hold onto the flour coating better, resulting in a crispier crust.
- Dredge Twice for Extra Crispiness: Double-dipping the pork chops in the flour and egg mixture ensures a thick, crunchy coating that will stay crispy even after frying.
- Monitor Oil Temperature: The oil should stay between 350°F and 375°F. If the oil is too cool, the pork chops will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the coating will burn before the pork chops are fully cooked.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pork chops at once can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy pork chops. Fry in batches if needed to maintain a consistent temperature.
- Skipping the Resting Period: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after frying to allow the juices to redistribute and prevent them from drying out when sliced.
- Undercooking the Pork: Be sure to cook the pork chops to an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption. If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer to check.
Serving and Presentation Tips
To serve your Country Fried Pork Chops, here are some ideas to enhance the presentation:
- Classic Sides: Pair your pork chops with mashed potatoes and smother them in gravy. For a complete Southern meal, serve with a side of sautéed collard greens or cornbread.
- Plate Garnish: Garnish the plate with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a lemon wedge to brighten up the dish.
- Family-Style: Serve the pork chops on a large platter with a gravy boat of homemade gravy on the side for easy serving.
Presentation Ideas for Country Fried Pork Chops
- Rustic Style: For a more casual, rustic presentation, place the fried pork chops in a basket lined with parchment paper. Serve with bowls of gravy, mashed potatoes, and greens for a classic comfort food spread.
- Elegant Plating: For a more refined presentation, place the pork chop in the center of the plate with a drizzle of gravy and a side of mashed potatoes. Add a sprig of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a touch of elegance.
Country Fried Pork Chops Recipe Tips
- Preheat Your Oven: If you’re making the pork chops in batches, keep them warm in a 200°F oven while you finish frying the rest.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures the pork chops are cooked to the perfect temperature without overcooking.
- Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the seasonings to your taste. Add more cayenne for extra heat or use herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I bake these pork chops instead of frying?
A: Yes! For a healthier version, you can bake the breaded pork chops. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the pork chops on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden and cooked through, flipping halfway.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Reheating in the oven helps maintain the crispiness of the breading.
Q: Can I use pork loin or tenderloin for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can slice pork loin or tenderloin into 1-inch thick pieces and follow the same recipe for frying. Be mindful of cooking time, as smaller pieces may cook faster.
Conclusion
Country Fried Pork Chops are a delicious and comforting meal that’s easy to make and guaranteed to please. With their crispy, golden coating and juicy, tender interior, these pork chops are perfect for a hearty dinner, whether served with gravy or on their own. Pair them with classic sides like mashed potatoes and greens, and you’ve got a winning meal that will leave everyone satisfied. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the flavors of Southern comfort right at home!
PrintCountry Fried Pork Chops Recipe
This Country Fried Pork Chops recipe offers perfectly seasoned, breaded pork chops fried to a crispy, golden-brown perfection. Served with a side of gravy, these tender chops make for a classic and comforting dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: frying
- Cuisine: Southern, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Bone-in or boneless pork chops
- All-purpose flour
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Buttermilk
- Eggs
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk and eggs to create a dredge.
- In a separate dish, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each pork chop in the buttermilk mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, coating evenly.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve warm.
Notes
- For extra crispy pork chops, double dip in the buttermilk and flour mixture.
- Serve with mashed potatoes and gravy for a complete Southern meal.
- Use a thermometer to ensure pork chops are cooked to the correct internal temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 720mg
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