Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
- Start by taking your pork chops and placing them between two sheets of plastic wrap. Grab a meat mallet or rolling pin and pound them to about ½ inch thickness. Ensure they’re uniform for even cooking.
Step 2: Set Up Breading Station
- Create a three-bowl setup. In the first bowl, add your flour. In the second bowl, beat your eggs until well mixed. In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you like that flavor.
Step 3: Bread the Pork
- Take a pounded pork chop and first coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any surplus to drip off. Finally, coat it generously with the panko mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure it sticks. Repeat this process for your other chop.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
- In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil and butter over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a breadcrumb dropped into the oil sizzles.
Step 5: Fry the Pork
- Carefully place the breaded pork chops into the hot oil. Fry them for about 4–5 minutes on each side or until they look golden brown and delicious. If your skillet is crowded, do this in batches.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
- Once the pork is cooked, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes.
Notes
- Pound Evenly: Aim for uniform thickness when pounding the pork. This ensures even cooking.
- Do Not Rush the Breading: Take your time when breading the pork. The goal is a good coating.
- Double Dip for Extra Crunch: For a thicker crust, double dip your pork in the egg and breadcrumbs.
- Oil Temperature is Key: Make sure your oil is hot enough but not smoking to prevent soggy breading.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme into your panko for additional flavor.
