Air Fryer Pork Cutlets: Quick, Easy, and Crispy

Air fryer pork cutlets are a fantastic dish that combines simplicity with great taste. In this recipe, I’ll guide you through making crispy pork cutlets that are quick to prepare and cook.

Using an air fryer not only speeds up the cooking process but also results in a deliciously crispy texture without the excess oil. You’ll love how easy and efficient this method is, making it perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave a tasty meal.

Essential Ingredients

To make, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless pork sirloin chops (each about 1/4 inch thick)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray (or a light drizzle of olive oil)

Cooking Equipment

For this recipe, you’ll need the following equipment:

1. Air fryer
2. Shallow bowls (for dredging the cutlets)
3. Meat mallet (optional, for pounding the cutlets to uniform thickness)
4. Tongs (for handling the cutlets)
5. Baking sheet (for holding cutlets before cooking)

Choosing the Right Pork Cutlets

When selecting the best pork cutlets for air frying, it’s crucial to choose boneless pork sirloin chops. These cuts are lean and tender, making them perfect for this quick air fryer recipe.

Look for cutlets that are uniform in thickness, ideally about 1/4 inch thick, to ensure even cooking. If your cutlets are thicker, use a meat mallet to pound them to the desired thickness. This step helps achieve a consistent, crispy coating and prevents uneven cooking.

Preparing the Pork Cutlets

When preparing pork cutlets, it’s essential to season and bread them properly. First, set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs.

Season the flour with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Season the eggs with a pinch of salt and a dash of paprika. Add garlic powder and onion powder to the breadcrumbs. Coat each cutlet in flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally press it into the breadcrumbs. Ensuring an even coating allows the breadcrumbs to adhere properly, resulting in perfectly breading pork cutlets.

Breading Station Setup

For a well-organized breading station, you’ll need three shallow dishes.

1. Flour: In the first dish, add one cup of flour seasoned with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.

2. Eggs: In the second dish, beat two large eggs with a pinch of salt and a dash of paprika for added flavor.

3. Breadcrumbs: In the third dish, combine one cup of breadcrumbs (preferably panko) with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder.

This setup ensures that the breading station is efficient and the cutlets are well-flavored.

How to Cook Pork Cutlets in Air Fryer

Follow these steps:

4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 360°F for 3-5 minutes.

5. Arrange the Cutlets: Place the breaded cutlets in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary.

6. Cook: Cook the cutlets for 9-12 minutes, depending on thickness. Flip the cutlets halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.

7. Check for Doneness: The cutlets should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of at least 145°F.

Note: For best results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This ensures that the cutlets cook evenly and become perfectly crispy. Additionally, flipping the cutlets halfway through cooking helps achieve an even, golden crust on both sides.

Cooking Tips for Best Results in the Air Fryer

To ensure your crispy pork cutlets turn out perfect every time, follow these tips:

• Light Brush of Oil: For extra crispiness, lightly brush the cutlets with oil before placing them in the air fryer. This helps achieve a golden-brown crust.
• Internal Temperature: Always check the internal temperature of the pork cutlets with a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure they are safely cooked.
• Resting Time: After cooking, allow the cutlets to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the cutlets juicier and more flavorful.

What to Serve with Fried Pork Cutlets? Serving Suggestions

When serving pork cutlets, pairing them with the right sides enhances the overall meal. Here are some great side dishes for pork cutlets:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that complements the crispy texture of the pork cutlets.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus add a nutritious and flavorful touch.
• Simple Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the cutlets.

These best sides offer a variety of flavors and textures that perfectly complement the pork cutlets, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

FAQs about Air Fryer Instructions

Why This Pork Cutlets Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

Making pork cutlets is a straightforward way to enjoy a tasty, crispy meal with less oil and hassle. We’ve discussed selecting the best cutlets, setting up a breading station, and perfecting the cooking process.

Using an air fryer not only makes this process quicker but also healthier. The key is in the even breading and proper cooking temperature to achieve that perfect crisp.

I’m serious you’ll appreciate how simple and delicious this easy air fryer recipe is. Try pork cutlets and share your results or ask any questions in the comments. Happy cooking!

More Delicious Air Fryer Recipes

• How to Cook Boudin in Air Fryer
• Easy Celeste Pizza Air Fryer Instructions
• Air Fryer Corned Beef
• Gordon Ramsay Air Fryer Instructions
• Easy Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf

Print