Looking for a meal that’s easy to make, crispy, and bursting with flavor? Country Fried Pork Chops are a staple in Southern cuisine, offering a deliciously crunchy crust and tender, juicy meat on the inside. This dish combines simple ingredients and a few cooking techniques to create a satisfying, down-home meal that the whole family will love. Read on to learn how to make this crowd-pleasing recipe, and bring a little Southern comfort to your dinner table!

What Are Country Fried Pork Chops?
Country Fried Pork Chops are a classic Southern dish that involves coating pork chops in seasoned flour and frying them until golden brown. Similar to fried chicken, this dish is beloved for its crispy exterior and juicy, tender meat inside. Often served with mashed potatoes, gravy, or a side of green beans, Country Fried Pork Chops are comfort food at its finest. This recipe walks you through everything from the ingredients list to step-by-step instructions, substitutions, and serving ideas to help you achieve the perfect fried pork chop every time.
Ingredients List for Country Fried Pork Chops
Before you start, gather the following ingredients to make sure you have everything you need for delicious Country Fried Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless or bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added depth of flavor)
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup buttermilk (optional, but recommended for extra tenderness)
- Vegetable oil or canola oil (for frying)
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary (optional, for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (to add to the flour mixture for additional flavor)
- Hot sauce (to add a little kick to the egg wash)
Substitutions and Variations
Here are some easy substitutions and variations if you want to personalize this Country Fried Pork Chops recipe or accommodate dietary restrictions:
- Pork Chops: You can use bone-in or boneless pork chops. Bone-in chops have more flavor, but boneless ones are easier to handle.
- Flour: Gluten-free all-purpose flour can be used if you need a gluten-free option. Almond flour or rice flour can also work but may change the texture slightly.
- Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix ¼ cup of milk with ½ teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Seasonings: Customize the seasoning to your taste. Add herbs like dried thyme or sage to the flour mixture, or adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper.
- Cornstarch: This adds extra crispiness, but you can use more flour if you don’t have cornstarch on hand.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel. This helps the breading stick better.
- Season the Pork Chops: Lightly season the pork chops with a pinch of salt and pepper on both sides.
- Set Up the Breading Station: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: In another shallow bowl, whisk the eggs and buttermilk together. If you like, add a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for an extra kick.
- Bread the Pork Chops: Dip each pork chop into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg wash, then back into the flour mixture, pressing the flour firmly onto the chop for a thick coating.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, pour about ½ inch of vegetable or canola oil and heat over medium-high until it reaches 350°F (you can use a thermometer to check). The oil should be hot enough so that the pork chops start to sizzle immediately when added.
- Fry the Pork Chops: Carefully place each breaded pork chop into the hot oil. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Drain the Pork Chops: Once fried, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
How to Cook Country Fried Pork Chops: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Pat Dry: Ensure the pork chops are completely dry before you begin.
- Season and Coat: Follow the breading instructions to get an even, crispy coating.
- Heat the Oil Properly: Ensure the oil is at the right temperature; too hot and the breading will burn, too cold and the chops will be greasy.
- Fry Until Golden: Make sure each side reaches a perfect golden brown before flipping.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Patting the Pork Chops Dry: If the pork chops are damp, the breading won’t adhere properly and could fall off during frying.
- Oil Temperature Issues: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the pork chops will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer if possible.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Fry the pork chops in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. This ensures even cooking and maintains the oil temperature.
- Not Letting the Coating Set: After breading, let the pork chops sit for a few minutes before frying to help the coating adhere better.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Country Fried Pork Chops are best served hot with a few simple, comforting sides. Some popular options include:
- Mashed potatoes with country gravy
- Green beans sautéed with garlic
- Macaroni and cheese
- Southern-style biscuits
- Creamed corn
These sides not only enhance the dish but make it a complete meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
How to Serve Country Fried Pork Chops
For a classic Southern presentation, serve the pork chops on a large plate with a drizzle of country gravy on top and garnished with a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary. Accompany it with a heaping scoop of mashed potatoes and green beans on the side. For an extra touch, add a warm biscuit and a pat of butter for that true comfort-food experience.
Presentation Ideas for Country Fried Pork Chops
Presentation is everything! Here are some ideas for serving Country Fried Pork Chops in style:
- On a Wooden Board: Place the fried pork chops on a wooden cutting board with side dishes in small bowls around it. This gives a rustic, farm-to-table vibe.
- Stack with Gravy Drizzle: Stack two pork chops on a plate and drizzle a spoonful of gravy over the top for an elevated look.
- Garnished with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme over the pork chops to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Country Fried Pork Chops Recipe Tips
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked pork chops, check the internal temperature. It should reach 145°F.
- Let the Coating Rest: After breading the pork chops, let them rest for 5 minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better.
- Use Cornstarch for Extra Crispiness: Mixing cornstarch with flour makes the breading crispier and more airy.
- Avoid Over-Frying: Once golden brown, remove the pork chops to prevent them from becoming tough.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe? Yes! Bone-in pork chops add more flavor but may require a slightly longer cooking time.
2. Do I have to use buttermilk? Buttermilk helps tenderize the pork, but you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a bit of vinegar.
3. What oil is best for frying pork chops? Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil.
4. Can I bake the pork chops instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake them at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, but they won’t be as crispy as fried.
5. How can I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
Country Fried Pork Chops are a simple, delicious, and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With a crispy coating and tender, juicy meat, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making them for a Sunday dinner or a weekday meal, this recipe is easy to follow and adaptable to your taste. So gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and enjoy this classic Southern dish! Don't forget to experiment with sides, presentation, and seasoning to make it your own. Happy cooking!
PrintCountry Fried Pork Chops Recipe
Enjoy crispy country fried pork chops with a golden crust and tender meat inside, seasoned with classic Southern spices. This recipe is a comforting favorite that's easy to make and pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern, American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Oil, for frying
Instructions
- Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
- In a shallow bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- In another bowl, combine eggs and buttermilk.
- Dredge each pork chop in flour mixture, then dip in egg mixture, and again in flour.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each pork chop for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Place on paper towels to drain excess oil before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, let pork chops sit in the seasoning for 10 minutes before breading.
- Serve with gravy for an added Southern touch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 750 mg
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