Country Fried Pork Chops Recipe

Craving a hearty, satisfying meal with a bit of Southern comfort? This Country Fried Pork Chops recipe is a winner! Perfectly seasoned, breaded, and fried to golden-brown perfection, these pork chops are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Paired with a classic creamy gravy, this dish is pure comfort food—great for a family dinner, special occasion, or anytime you want something indulgent. Ready to dive into some serious Southern flavor? Keep reading for the full recipe, tips for success, and all the ways you can make this dish your own!

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What Are "Country Fried Pork Chops"?

Country Fried Pork Chops are a classic Southern dish where pork chops are dredged in seasoned flour, then fried until crispy and golden. Much like country fried steak or chicken fried steak, these chops are often served with a thick, creamy gravy made from the pan drippings. The combination of a crispy, well-seasoned exterior and a tender, juicy interior makes these pork chops irresistible. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing meal that’s best served with mashed potatoes, collard greens, or a side of biscuits.

Ingredients List for Country Fried Pork Chops

Here’s what you’ll need to create these Country Fried Pork Chops:

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about ¾ to 1 inch thick)
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)
• ½ cup vegetable oil or shortening (for frying)

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups whole milk (or cream for a richer gravy)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (or more to taste)

Ingredients List for Toppings and Variations

Here are a few extra toppings and variations to add more flavor and texture to your Country Fried Pork Chops:

• Toppings:
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
• A squeeze of lemon for a bit of brightness
• Crispy bacon crumbles for extra indulgence
• Variations:
• Spicy Version: Add a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture or increase the cayenne pepper in the flour mix for a spicier kick.
• Herb-Crusted Pork Chops: Add fresh chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary to the flour mixture for an earthy flavor.
• Gravy Variations: For a richer flavor, substitute half the milk in the gravy with heavy cream or add some crumbled sausage for a sausage gravy twist.

Substitutions and Variations

Country Fried Pork Chops are versatile, and you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Pork Chops: Use either bone-in or boneless pork chops, but keep in mind that bone-in pork chops tend to stay juicier. You can also use chicken breasts or thighs as a substitute for pork.
• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use almond milk or another non-dairy milk in both the egg mixture and the gravy.
• Gluten-Free: Swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the pork chops and making the gravy. You can also use cornstarch for dredging, which will result in an even crispier coating.
• Gravy Without Dairy: Make the gravy using vegetable broth and a dairy-free butter substitute for a dairy-free option. It won’t be as creamy, but you’ll still get a delicious, flavorful sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create delicious, crispy Country Fried Pork Chops:

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. In a separate shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.

Step 2: Dredge the Pork Chops

1. Dredge each pork chop in the seasoned flour mixture, coating both sides and shaking off any excess.
2. Next, dip the pork chop into the egg mixture, making sure it is fully coated.
3. Dredge the pork chop again in the seasoned flour, pressing it lightly to ensure the flour sticks. Repeat this process with all the pork chops.

Step 3: Fry the Pork Chops

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll want about ¼ inch of oil in the pan for frying.
2. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F), carefully add the pork chops to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
3. Fry the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). If the chops are thick, you may need to lower the heat and cook them a bit longer to ensure they are done all the way through.
4. Transfer the fried pork chops to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

1. After frying the pork chops, remove all but 2 tablespoons of oil from the skillet. Make sure to leave any crispy bits in the pan as they’ll add flavor to the gravy.
2. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
3. Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure to break up any lumps, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the gravy thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if desired.
4. If the gravy gets too thick, add a little extra milk to reach your preferred consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Pour the warm gravy over the fried pork chops and serve immediately.
2. Pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits for a complete Southern-style meal.

How to Cook Country Fried Pork Chops: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Season and dredge the pork chops in flour, then coat them in an egg wash, and dredge them again.
2. Fry the pork chops in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
3. Make the gravy in the same skillet by whisking flour into the pan drippings and adding milk until thickened.
4. Serve the pork chops with the warm gravy poured over them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: Fry the pork chops in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can cause the temperature of the oil to drop and lead to soggy, unevenly cooked pork chops.
• Skipping the Dredge Steps: Dredging the pork chops in flour, egg, and then flour again helps create a crispy coating. Skipping any step can result in a less crispy chop.
• Using Too Much Heat: If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn while the inside remains undercooked. Make sure to fry the chops over medium heat and adjust as needed.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Country Fried Pork Chops are best served hot with a generous pour of gravy over the top. Here are a few presentation ideas:

• Family-Style: Serve the pork chops on a large platter with a gravy boat on the side so guests can pour their own gravy.
• Individual Plates: Plate each pork chop with a drizzle of gravy and serve with mashed potatoes, collard greens, or biscuits for a complete meal.
• Southern Buffet: For a larger gathering, set up a Southern-style buffet with country fried pork chops, macaroni and cheese, coleslaw, cornbread, and collard greens.

How to Serve Country Fried Pork Chops

• Classic Southern Style: Serve the pork chops with mashed potatoes and a vegetable like green beans or collard greens, all drizzled with the creamy gravy.
• With a Side of Biscuits: Pair the pork chops with freshly baked buttermilk biscuits and a side of coleslaw for a full Southern meal.
• Breakfast Twist: For a breakfast version, serve the pork chops with fried eggs and biscuits covered in gravy.

Presentation Ideas for Country Fried Pork Chops

• Rustic Platter: Serve the pork chops on a rustic wooden board or large plate with the gravy drizzled over the top and extra gravy on the side.
• Crispy Garnish: Top each pork chop with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or crispy fried onions for added texture and color.
• Elegant Twist: Serve the pork chops on individual plates with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of gravy in a fine dining style.

Country Fried Pork Chops Recipe Tips

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the pork chops are cooked through but still juicy, use a meat thermometer and cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
• Double Dredge for Extra Crispy Chops: For extra crispy pork chops, make sure to double dredge them in the flour mixture.
• **

Gravy Consistency**: If your gravy gets too thick, simply whisk in more milk a little at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
A: Yes! You can use boneless pork chops, but keep in mind that they may cook faster, so be sure to adjust the cooking time and use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While it’s best to enjoy Country Fried Pork Chops fresh, you can fry the pork chops ahead of time and reheat them in the oven to retain their crispiness. The gravy can also be made ahead and reheated when ready to serve.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover pork chops and gravy in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the pork chops in the oven to keep them crispy, and reheat the gravy on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Q: Can I make the gravy without milk?
A: Yes! You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute for milk if you prefer a non-dairy or lighter gravy.

Conclusion

This Country Fried Pork Chops recipe is a true Southern classic, offering crispy, juicy pork chops covered in a rich, creamy gravy that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving this meal for a family dinner, a weekend brunch, or a special gathering, these pork chops are sure to please. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is a great go-to when you’re craving some down-home comfort food. Give it a try, and enjoy the crispy, savory goodness!

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