If you are craving a flavorful and juicy dish that packs a punch, look no further than this recipe for Crispy Pan Fried Jerk Pork Chops. Originating from the Caribbean, jerk seasoning is known for its bold and spicy flavors, and it transforms ordinary pork chops into a mouthwatering delight. This recipe combines the crispy goodness of pan frying with the aromatic and spicy jerk marinade, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
To make these Crispy Pan Fried Jerk Pork Chops, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Jerk Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Jerk Marinade
- In a bowl, combine the jerk seasoning, soy sauce, olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, thyme leaves, brown sugar, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to create a smooth marinade.
Step 2: Marinate the Pork Chops
- Place the pork chops in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the jerk marinade over the pork chops, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Step 3: Prepare for Frying
- Remove the marinated pork chops from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Bread the Pork Chops
- Dredge each pork chop in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured pork chop into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Press the pork chop into the panko breadcrumbs, making sure it is evenly coated on both sides.
Step 5: Fry the Pork Chops
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy, and the pork chops are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F).
- If necessary, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
Step 6: Serve
- Transfer the cooked pork chops to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve the crispy pan fried jerk pork chops with lime wedges on the side.
Tips and Variations
- Juicy Pan Fried Pork Chops: For extra juicy pork chops, allow them to rest for a few minutes after frying before serving.
- Pan Fried Boneless Pork Chops: If you prefer boneless pork chops, simply adjust the cooking time to 3-4 minutes per side.
- Pan Fried Pork Chops with Onions: Add sliced onions to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking for a delicious caramelized onion topping.
- Air Fryer Option: For a healthier version, you can cook the breaded pork chops in an air fryer at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 740mg
These Crispy Pan Fried Jerk Pork Chops are sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of spicy jerk marinade and crispy coating creates a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and tips to make this recipe your own. We’d love to hear how your pork chops turned out, so leave a comment below, share your photos on social media, and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes.