Craving a classic Southern comfort dish? Country Fried Pork Chops are the perfect combination of juicy pork, crispy seasoned breading, and rich gravy. These pork chops are coated in a seasoned flour mixture, fried to golden perfection, and then served with a creamy, flavorful gravy. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special Sunday supper. Paired with mashed potatoes or a side of vegetables, these country fried pork chops will become a new family favorite. Read on for the full recipe, tips, variations, and serving suggestions!
What are Country Fried Pork Chops?
Country Fried Pork Chops are a Southern comfort dish made by dredging pork chops in seasoned flour, frying them until golden and crispy, and often serving them with a rich, creamy gravy. Unlike traditional fried pork chops, which may be simply breaded and fried, country fried pork chops often get a thicker crust and are sometimes smothered in gravy made from the pan drippings. This dish is similar to chicken fried steak, but with pork chops instead of beef, offering a delicious and comforting twist on a classic fried dish.
Ingredients List for Country Fried Pork Chops
Here’s what you’ll need to make crispy, flavorful country fried pork chops:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (¾ to 1 inch thick): Bone-in pork chops add extra flavor and stay juicier.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: For dredging the pork chops.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky, subtle heat.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For savory flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth to the seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a slight kick.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the pork and flour mixture.
- 2 large eggs: To help the breading stick to the pork chops.
- 2 tablespoon milk: Helps loosen the eggs for coating.
- ½ cup buttermilk (optional, for extra flavor in the egg mixture).
- Vegetable oil or lard: For frying the pork chops.
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoon butter or pan drippings: For making the gravy.
- 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour: To thicken the gravy.
- 1 ½ cups milk: For a creamy gravy (you can use half-and-half for an even richer gravy).
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season the gravy.
Optional Add-Ons:
- Fresh thyme or parsley: For garnish and extra flavor.
- Hot sauce: To drizzle on top for a bit of spice.
Substitutions and Variations
Country fried pork chops can be easily adapted to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some common substitutions and variations:
- Boneless Pork Chops: If you prefer boneless pork chops, feel free to substitute them. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more quickly.
- Chicken Fried Pork Chops: Swap pork for chicken to make chicken fried pork chops, which follow the same breading and frying process.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for dredging the pork chops and thickening the gravy.
- Spicy Version: Add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the dredging mixture for a spicier version.
- Buttermilk Marinade: For extra tender and flavorful pork chops, marinate them in buttermilk for a few hours before breading and frying.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make Country Fried Pork Chops step by step:
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This will help the breading stick better. Season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and a little more salt and pepper. In a separate shallow bowl, whisk the eggs with 2 tablespoons of milk (and buttermilk if using) until smooth.
Step 3: Dredge the Pork Chops
Dredge each pork chop in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Shake off any excess flour, then dip the pork chop into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, dredge the pork chop back into the flour mixture, pressing the flour into the pork chop to ensure a good crust. Repeat with all the pork chops.
Step 4: Fry the Pork Chops
In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil or lard over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking, about 350°F (175°C). Gently place the pork chops in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
Fry the pork chops for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). If your pork chops are thick, you may need to lower the heat and cook them for a little longer to avoid burning the crust.
Step 5: Make the Gravy
Once the pork chops are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Carefully pour off most of the oil from the skillet, leaving about 2 tablespoons along with the crispy bits from the pork chops. Alternatively, you can use butter instead of pan drippings for a cleaner gravy.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, and add 2 tablespoons of flour to the skillet. Stir continuously, scraping up any browned bits, for about 1-2 minutes to cook the flour and make a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking the gravy until it thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the fried pork chops hot with the creamy gravy spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme if desired. Country fried pork chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or a side of green beans.
How to Cook Country Fried Pork Chops: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Season and Dredge: Pat dry, season the pork chops, and dredge them in seasoned flour and egg for a perfect crispy coating.
- Fry to Golden Brown: Fry the pork chops until golden brown on each side, ensuring a crunchy, flavorful crust.
- Make the Gravy: Use pan drippings to make a creamy, flavorful gravy with milk and flour.
- Serve: Plate the pork chops and generously drizzle with homemade gravy for a comforting, Southern-style meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make sure your Country Fried Pork Chops come out perfectly every time, avoid these common mistakes:
- Not Patting the Pork Dry: Moisture will prevent the breading from sticking properly and could cause splattering during frying.
- Skipping the Second Dredge: Make sure to dredge the pork chops in flour before and after the egg dip. This double-dredging technique ensures a crispy, well-adhered coating.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Fry the pork chops in batches to ensure they cook evenly and develop a crispy crust. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and make the pork soggy.
- Undercooking or Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for juicy results.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Serve your Country Fried Pork Chops with classic Southern sides and a generous spoonful of creamy gravy for the ultimate comfort meal.
How to Serve Country Fried Pork Chops
- With Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect side to soak up the delicious gravy.
- With Biscuits or Cornbread: Serve warm buttermilk biscuits or cornbread for an authentic Southern meal.
- With Green Beans or Collard Greens: Balance the richness of the pork chops with a side of green beans, collard greens, or a simple salad.
- With Rice: Serve the pork chops over rice to soak up the gravy, turning this dish into a comforting one-pan meal.
Presentation Ideas for Country Fried Pork Chops
- Drizzle the Gravy: Drizzle the gravy over the pork chops right before serving for a beautiful presentation. You can also serve the gravy on the side for guests to add as they please.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme over the pork chops for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Serve Family Style: Place the pork chops and gravy in a large serving dish and bring it to the table for a more rustic, family-style presentation.
Country Fried Pork Chops Recipe Tips
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked pork chops, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- For Extra Tenderness: Marinate the pork chops in buttermilk for a few hours before frying. This will tenderize the meat and add extra flavor.
- Double the Gravy: If you’re a gravy lover, double the gravy recipe to ensure there’s plenty to go around, especially if serving with mashed potatoes or biscuits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this recipe with boneless pork chops?
A: Yes, boneless pork chops work just as well, though they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so keep an eye on the cooking time.
Q: Can I make Country Fried Pork Chops in the oven?
A: While this recipe is designed for pan-frying, you can bake the breaded pork chops in the oven. Place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Q: Can I make the pork chops ahead of time?
A: It’s best to fry the pork chops just before serving to ensure they stay crispy. However, you can prepare the breading mixture and marinate the pork chops in advance to save time.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or in the oven to maintain the crispness. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the breading may lose some of its crispiness.
Conclusion
Country Fried Pork Chops are a classic Southern dish that brings together juicy pork, crispy breading, and creamy gravy in a hearty, comforting meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to be a hit. With its crispy exterior, tender pork, and flavorful gravy, it’s the perfect meal to serve alongside mashed potatoes, biscuits, or vegetables. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy a taste of Southern comfort!
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Country Fried Pork Chops Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Country Fried Pork Chops are a crispy, golden-brown, and tender Southern classic. These pork chops are dredged in seasoned flour and fried to perfection, creating a delicious, crunchy coating while keeping the meat juicy inside. Serve with mashed potatoes and gravy for the ultimate comfort food meal. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or a weekend treat the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, beat eggs with milk.
- Dredge each pork chop in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg mixture, and coat again with flour.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, fry pork chops for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.
Notes
- For extra crispy chops, double-dip in the flour and egg mixtures before frying.
- Serve with gravy, mashed potatoes, or coleslaw for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: Southern, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
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