Keto Pecan Crusted Pork Chops In The Air Fryer: Easy & Crispy

Keto Pecan Crusted Pork Chops In The Air FryerAre you craving a delicious, low-carb meal that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor? Look no further! Our Keto Pecan Crusted Pork Chops In The Air Fryer recipe is here to satisfy your taste buds while keeping your keto diet on track. This dish combines the rich, nutty taste of pecans with the savory goodness of pork chops, all cooked to perfection in your air fryer. Whether you’re new to the keto lifestyle or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this mouthwatering recipe:

  • 4 boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick
  • 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional for extra moisture)
  • Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Instructions

Preparing the Pork Chops

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the pork chops cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispy crust.
  2. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed.
  3. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and Dijon mustard until smooth. If you prefer extra moisture, add the mayonnaise to the egg mixture and whisk until fully incorporated.
  4. Coat the Pork Chops: Dip each pork chop into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Then, press each chop into the pecan mixture, making sure both sides are well covered with the nutty crust. Place the coated pork chops on a plate and let them rest for a few minutes to allow the coating to adhere.

Cooking the Pork Chops

  1. Spray the Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Arrange the Pork Chops: Place the coated pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Ensure they are not touching each other to allow for even cooking.
  3. Air Fry the Pork Chops: Cook the pork chops at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork chops. If you prefer a more well-done chop, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  4. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy and tender pork chops.

Tips and Variations

Tips for Success

  • Keep the Coating Intact: To prevent the crust from falling off, make sure the pork chops are dry before coating them. Pat them with a paper towel if necessary.
  • Add Extra Flavor: For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the pork chops in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs for 30 minutes before coating them.
  • Ensure Even Cooking: If your air fryer is small, cook the pork chops in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.

Variations

  • Keto Pork Chops with Mushroom Sauce: Serve the pork chops with a creamy mushroom sauce for added richness. Sauté mushrooms in butter, add heavy cream, and simmer until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops: Substitute the pecans with additional Parmesan cheese for a classic and crispy crust.
  • Keto Pork Chops with Mayo: For an even juicier result, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the pork chops before coating them with the pecan mixture.

Nutritional Information

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (1 pork chop):

  • Calories: 450
  • Fat: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g

This recipe is perfect for those following a keto diet, as it is low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein.

Conclusion

Our Keto Pecan Crusted Pork Chops In The Air Fryer recipe is a delightful and healthy option for any meal. The combination of the crunchy pecan crust and tender pork chops is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, cooking them in the air fryer makes this dish quick, easy, and mess-free.

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