Shake and Bake Pork Chops Recipe

These Shake and Bake Pork Chops Recipe (Air Fryer and Oven) are made with pork chops, paprika, parmesan, thyme, and served with lemon wedges.

I know we make a ton of pork chops, one of my favorite's being these BBQ Pork Chops on the stove. You need to try this one if you like a nice spice to it AND if you can handle it!

These pork chops are very satisfying and are super healthy. The combination of the paprika, shake and bake, and parmesan is to die for. This is an easy sheet pan oven baked pork chops and they are super family friendly. I used only a teaspoon of paprika, but if you like the spice feel free to use more. If you have space on the baking sheet, feel free to add some vegetables for a side dish.

If you love this breaded meats, you should try my Pork Chops Scarpariello or my Sous Vide Pork Chops Recipe.

Jump to:

• What are Shake and Bake Pork Chops?
• Shake and Bake Pork Chops Recipe Ingredients
• How to make Shake and Bake Pork Chops
• What to serve with Shake and Bake Pork Chops
• Substitutions
• Shake and Bake Pork Chops Recipe Variations
• Equipment
• How to store Shake and Bake Pork Chops
• Shake and Bake Pork Chops Recipe Top tips
• Shake and Bake Pork Chops Recipe
• Food safety

What are Shake and Bake Pork Chops?

Shake and Bake Pork Chops are a popular American dish made by coating pork chops with a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and baking them until they are crispy and golden brown. The "Shake and Bake" name comes from the fact that the breadcrumb mixture is typically placed in a bag along with the pork chops, and then shaken to evenly coat the chops before baking. The seasoning mixture used in Shake and Bake Pork Chops usually includes ingredients like breadcrumbs, flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and other herbs and spices. Once the pork chops are coated with the seasoned breadcrumbs, they are baked in the oven until they are cooked through and crispy on the outside. Shake and Bake Pork Chops are a convenient and easy way to prepare flavorful pork chops with minimal effort, and they are often served as a main course for dinner.

Shake and Bake Pork Chops Recipe Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Bone-in pork chops
• Shake and bake
• Vegetable oil
• Parmesan
• Thyme
• Paprika
• Lemon

See recipe card for Shake and Bake Pork Chops (Air Fryer and Oven) quantities.

How to make Shake and Bake Pork Chops

What to serve with Shake and Bake Pork Chops

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs well with the crispy pork chops. You can make them with butter, cream, and seasoning for a rich and comforting accompaniment to the flavorful pork chops.
• Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans with a little bit of garlic and butter can be a simple yet tasty side dish that complements the pork chops. You can also add some almonds or crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and texture.
• Applesauce: The tart sweetness of applesauce can provide a nice contrast to the savory and crispy pork chops. You can make homemade applesauce or use store-bought varieties, and serve it chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish.
• Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread can be a delicious accompaniment to Shake and Bake Pork Chops. You can bake cornbread in a skillet or as muffins, and serve it warm with butter or honey for a tasty side dish. Feel free to try my Air Fryer Corn Bread.

Substitutions

• Shake and Bake: I love shake and bake, although you can use use panko crumbs for these.
• Parmesan cheese: I used regular kraft parmesan cheese but any brand will work, as long as its thinly grated. 
• Paprika: The key ingredient in this is adding a little spice to it. I love paprika because it has that smoky flavor that compliments the pork chops. Chili powder would work as well. 
• Thyme: You can use fresh thyme leaves although I used dried thyme. 
• Lemon: For best quality use lemon juice from real lemons. 

Shake and Bake Pork Chops Recipe Variations

• Spicy Shake and Bake Pork Chops: Add some heat to your pork chops by incorporating spicy seasonings into the breadcrumb mixture. You can use ingredients such as cayenne pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, or hot sauce to give your pork chops a kick. Adjust the amount of spice to your preference.
• Parmesan Shake and Bake Pork Chops: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for a savory and cheesy twist. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty and tangy flavor to the coating, and it melts and forms a crispy crust as the pork chops bake.
• Herb-Crusted Shake and Bake Pork Chops: Mix in chopped fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, sage, or parsley into the breadcrumb mixture to infuse the pork chops with fragrant flavors. Fresh herbs add a burst of freshness and aroma to the dish. Feel free to try my Herb Crusted Pork Chops.
• Honey Mustard Shake and Bake Pork Chops: Mix together Dijon mustard, honey, and some additional spices like garlic powder and onion powder to create a tangy and sweet marinade for your pork chops. Coat the chops with the mixture before dredging them in the breadcrumb mixture for a flavorful and slightly sweet twist.
• BBQ Shake and Bake Pork Chops: Combine your favorite BBQ sauce with the breadcrumb mixture for a smoky and tangy flavor. You can also brush the pork chops with additional BBQ sauce while baking for a saucier finish.

Equipment

• Baking Sheet or Pan: You will need a baking sheet or pan to place the coated pork chops for baking in the oven. Choose a size that can comfortably accommodate the number of pork chops you are making and has a rim to catch any drips or crumbs.
• Mixing Bowls: You will need at least two mixing bowls. One for the breadcrumb mixture and another for any wet ingredients such as beaten eggs or marinade, depending on the recipe you are using.
• Plastic Bag or Plastic Food Storage Container: A plastic bag or food storage container with a tight-fitting lid will be needed for the "shake" part of Shake and Bake. This is where you will place the breadcrumb mixture and pork chops to coat them evenly by shaking or gently tossing.
• Meat Thermometer (optional): While not strictly necessary, a meat thermometer can be helpful to ensure that your pork chops are cooked to the proper internal temperature. The recommended internal temperature for pork chops is 145°F (63°C) with a 3-minute rest time for safe consumption.
• Cooking Spray or Oil (optional): Depending on the recipe and personal preference, you may need cooking spray or oil to lightly coat the baking sheet or pan to prevent sticking and to help achieve a crispy texture on the pork chops.
• Knife and Cutting Board: You may need a knife and cutting board to trim excess fat from the pork chops or to prepare any additional ingredients or side dishes you plan to serve with the pork chops.
• Whisk or Fork: A whisk or fork may be needed to mix together any wet ingredients or marinades, if applicable.

How to store Shake and Bake Pork Chops

To store Shake and Bake Pork Chops, follow these steps:

1. Allow the cooked Shake and Bake Pork Chops to cool to room temperature. If they are still warm, condensation can form inside the storage container, potentially making the coating soggy.
2. Wrap the pork chops individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help prevent them from drying out and protect them from any odors in the refrigerator.
3. Place the wrapped pork chops in an airtight container or a resealable plastic freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
4. Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
5. Store the Shake and Bake Pork Chops in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 1-2 months.

Note: If your Shake and Bake Pork Chops have not been cooked yet, it's best to store the breadcrumb mixture separately from the raw pork chops to maintain the crispy texture. Keep the breadcrumb mixture in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag and store it at room temperature or in the pantry, away from moisture and heat.

Shake and Bake Pork Chops Recipe Top tips

• Use thick-cut pork chops: Thicker pork chops are less likely to dry out during baking and will result in a juicier and more flavorful final dish. Look for pork chops that are at least 1 inch thick for best results.
• Pat dry the pork chops: Before coating the pork chops with the breadcrumb mixture, make sure to pat them dry with paper towels. This will help the coating adhere better and result in a crispier crust.
• Season the pork chops: While Shake and Bake breadcrumb mixtures are typically seasoned, it's a good idea to also season the pork chops themselves with salt and pepper or other herbs and spices to enhance the flavor. You can do this before coating them with the breadcrumb mixture.
• Shake off excess coating: After coating the pork chops with the breadcrumb mixture, give them a gentle shake or tap to remove any excess coating. This will help prevent the coating from becoming too thick and doughy during baking.
• Use a plastic bag for coating: Placing the breadcrumb mixture and pork chops in a plastic bag for coating can make the process less messy and more efficient. Simply shake the bag gently to coat the pork chops evenly, then transfer them to the baking sheet.
• Line the baking sheet: Consider lining the baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup and to prevent the pork chops from sticking to the pan.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan: Leave some space between the pork chops on the baking sheet to allow for even airflow and browning. Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking and a less crispy coating.
• Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked pork chops, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The recommended safe internal temperature for pork chops is 145°F (63°C). Insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chop without touching the bone for an accurate reading.
• Let the pork chops rest: After baking, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and helps ensure a moist and flavorful result.
• Customize the coating: Feel free to experiment with different variations of Shake and Bake coating mixtures by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or other seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Get creative and make it your own!

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Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.