Are you a busy parent looking for a quick and easy dinner option? Shake and Bake pork chops may have crossed your mind. But can you pan fry them?
The answer is yes! In fact, pan-searing before baking in the oven can enhance the flavor and texture of your pork chops. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try air frying them.
But why settle for the boxed version when you can make your own homemade shake and bake pork chops with just a few pantry staples? Not only is it easy and delicious, but it also offers endless possibilities for customization.
So let’s dive in and explore the world of shake and bake pork chops!
Can You Pan Fry Shake And Bake Pork Chops?
Pan-frying Shake and Bake pork chops is a popular cooking method that many people swear by. To pan-fry your pork chops, start by using a small amount of vegetable oil that is low in saturated fats, such as canola oil. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and fry the pork chops for about 5 minutes on each side.
While boneless pork chops can be used, bone-in pork chops are often more tender and juicy. The breadcrumb mixture in homemade shake and bake pork chops helps to hold in moisture and flavor, making bone-in pork chops a great choice.
But what about the boxed version of Shake and Bake? Can you pan-fry those pork chops too? The answer is yes! You can pan-fry Shake and Bake pork chops before baking them in the oven for added texture and flavor.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, try air frying your Shake and Bake pork chops. Simply cook them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
The Basics Of Shake And Bake Pork Chops
Shake and Bake pork chops are a quick and easy meal that can be made in the oven or on the stovetop. To make Shake and Bake pork chops, start by preparing the breadcrumb mixture. This can be done by mixing together plain breadcrumbs, spices, and oil. The mixture is then placed into a large Ziploc bag.
Next, the pork chops are prepared by seasoning them with salt and pepper. They are then added to the Ziploc bag one at a time and shaken until fully coated with the breadcrumb mixture. The pork chops are then placed onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
To bake the pork chops, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the baking sheet into the oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes or until cooked through. The internal temperature of the pork chops should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you prefer to pan-fry your Shake and Bake pork chops, start by heating a small amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the pork chops for about 5 minutes on each side before transferring them to a baking sheet to finish cooking in the oven.
Pan Frying Shake And Bake Pork Chops
Pan-frying Shake and Bake pork chops is a simple and easy way to add extra texture and flavor to your meal. To start, preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of vegetable oil. Canola oil is a great choice as it is low in saturated fats.
Next, take your bone-in or boneless pork chops and dip them into the Shake and Bake coating mixture. Make sure to coat each chop evenly with the breadcrumb mixture. Once coated, carefully place the pork chops into the hot skillet.
Cook the pork chops for about 5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. It is important to make sure that the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit for bone-in chops or 165 degrees Fahrenheit for boneless chops when tested with a meat thermometer.
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite sides such as roasted carrots, onions, and potatoes.
Enhancing The Flavor Of Shake And Bake Pork Chops
To enhance the flavor of your Shake and Bake pork chops, consider adding some additional seasonings to the breadcrumb mixture. While the basic recipe calls for salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, you can experiment with adding other herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
For example, try adding some dried thyme or rosemary for an herby twist. You could also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, consider using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
Another way to enhance the flavor of your pork chops is to brine them before cooking. Brining involves soaking the meat in a mixture of salt, water, and other seasonings for several hours before cooking. This helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
To make a basic brine for pork chops, mix together 4 cups of water with 1/4 cup of kosher salt and 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Add any additional seasonings you like, such as garlic or herbs. Submerge the pork chops in the brine and refrigerate for 2-4 hours before cooking.
By pan-frying your Shake and Bake pork chops and experimenting with different seasonings and brining techniques, you can create a delicious and flavorful meal that is sure to impress.
Air Frying Shake And Bake Pork Chops
Air frying is a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods that uses hot air to cook food. It’s a great way to achieve crispy and delicious Shake and Bake pork chops without the added oil and calories.
To air fry Shake and Bake pork chops, start by preheating your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While the air fryer is heating up, pat your pork chops dry with a paper towel and lightly coat them with cooking spray or brush them with olive oil.
Next, place the pork chops in a bag of Shake and Bake mixture and shake until each chop is completely coated. Then, place the coated pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, without overlapping. Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s important to not overcrowd the air fryer basket as this will prevent the pork chops from crisping up properly. If needed, cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the air fryer and allow them to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will help to lock in moisture and ensure that they are juicy and tender.
Making Homemade Shake And Bake Pork Chops
Making homemade Shake and Bake pork chops is a great way to save money and control the ingredients that go into your meal. To start, preheat your oven to 425°F. Next, create the breading mixture by combining plain dried bread crumbs, oil, and a variety of seasonings and spices to taste. You can use a fork to mash the ingredients together until they are uniformly combined.
Once your breading mixture is ready, you can add bone-in or boneless pork chops to a plastic bag with a small amount of oil. Massage and coat the pork chops in the oil before adding the breading mixture to the bag. Shake the bag until the pork chops are completely coated in the breading mixture.
Next, lay the pork chops on a shallow baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145-160°F. If you prefer well-done pork, aim for an internal temperature of 160°F.
If you’re looking for some variety in your homemade Shake and Bake pork chops, try adding different seasonings to create unique flavor profiles. For example, you can add cumin, chili powder, and ginger for a BBQ flavor, or use a store-bought or homemade Cajun seasoning blend for a spicy kick.
Customizing Your Shake And Bake Pork Chops
One of the great things about Shake and Bake pork chops is that you can easily customize the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste preferences. While the original recipe is delicious, adding your own favorite seasonings can take this classic dish to a whole new level.
Some popular seasonings to add to the breadcrumb mixture include garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, celery seed, and chile powder. You can experiment with different combinations of these spices to create unique flavor profiles that suit your taste buds.
In addition to seasonings, you can also add other ingredients to the breadcrumb mixture for added texture and flavor. For example, try adding finely chopped nuts or seeds like almonds or sesame seeds. You could also mix in some grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist on this classic dish.
Another way to customize your Shake and Bake pork chops is by using different types of meat. While pork chops are the traditional choice, you could also use chicken breasts or thighs for a tasty alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of meat you’re using.
