Name: Crispy Breaded Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless pork chops about 1 inch thick; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 1/2 cups plain breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon celery seed; 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1/3 cup mayonnaise; Cooking spray; Fresh minced parsley for garnish; Lemon wedges for serving

If you're craving a crispy, golden-crusted pork chop with a bright, zesty twist, you’ll love this Crispy Breaded Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe. It’s a simple, flavorful way to bring some excitement to your weeknight dinners without the fuss.

The image shows a white plate with three golden-brown fried chicken pieces stacked close to each other on the left side. The top piece is pierced by a black fork held by a woman's hand, revealing a crispy, textured crust with small herbs sprinkled on top. Underneath the fried chicken, there are two bright yellow lemon slices partly visible. On the right side of the plate, there is a pile of fresh, bright green cut green beans. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Breaded Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Crispy Breaded Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Crispy Breaded Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Honestly, this recipe quickly became one of my go-to dinners when I want something that feels special but comes together in no time. The crispy coating paired with that subtle lemon tang is just magic every time.

Golden Crispy Coating: Thanks to the combination of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and mayo, you get a crunchy crust that’s packed with flavor.
Juicy Pork Chops: The mayonnaise keeps the meat tender and juicy, so no dry pork in sight.
Simple Prep: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this perfect for busy weeknights.
Zesty Lemon Finish: Fresh lemon wedges brighten every bite, balancing richness with a refreshing twist.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Before you start, I recommend grabbing quality boneless pork chops about an inch thick for the best texture. Freshly grated Parmesan and a good mayonnaise make all the difference in the breading — plus, the spices add depth without overpowering that lovely lemony note.

Flat lay of four fresh boneless pork chops with clean white shells of two whole brown eggs resting nearby, a small white ceramic bowl filled with golden plain breadcrumbs, another small white bowl holding finely grated Parmesan cheese, a small white bowl containing smooth mayonnaise, fresh whole lemons cut into wedges alongside a few bright green sprigs of parsley, all arranged symmetrically and naturally on a simple white ceramic baking sheet, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Boneless pork chops: Choose chops about 1 inch thick for juicy, even cooking.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the pork and bringing out its natural flavor.
Plain breadcrumbs: The crunchy base that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
Kosher salt: Adds more seasoning punch to the breading mix.
Smoked paprika: Gives a subtle smoky warmth without overpowering.
Black pepper: For a gentle spicy bite in every crusty nook.
Garlic powder: Adds a mild garlic note that pairs perfectly with pork.
Onion powder: Rounds out the flavor profile with a bit of sweetness.
Celery seed: A surprising touch that adds subtle earthiness.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Creates a nutty, savory crust and helps bind the breading.
Mayonnaise: The secret ingredient that keeps the chops moist and helps the breading stick.
Cooking spray: Ensures an extra crispy finish without excess oil.
Fresh minced parsley: For a fresh, colorful garnish.
Lemon wedges: To squeeze over just before eating, giving every bite a bright lift.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Crispy Breaded Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe is how easy it is to tailor it to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you like things a little spicier, lighter, or want to switch up the cooking method, there’s room to make it your own.

Variation: I love adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for just a hint of heat. It wakes up the smoky paprika and bright lemon perfectly!
Healthier option: Swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to lighten up the coating without sacrificing moisture. It still bakes up beautifully crisp!
Alternate cooking methods: While baking is effortless, pan-frying your breaded pork chops in a little oil creates a darker, crispier crust if you’re craving extra crunch. Or try the air fryer method for a super quick, evenly cooked meal.
Seasonal twist: In warmer months, toss fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the breadcrumb mixture for a fragrant, garden-fresh flavor boost.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Breaded Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe

The dish shows a white plate with three parts: sliced golden brown crispy coated meat arranged in a slight curve on the left side, sprinkled with small green herb bits, and garnished with two lemon slices at the top left and one lemon slice at the bottom right of the meat; next to the meat, on the top right side, is a creamy light yellow mound of mashed potatoes with some small green herb pieces sprinkled on top and a small melting pat of butter; on the bottom right side, there are bright green steamed cut green beans placed neatly together. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Get the Oven Ready and Prep Your Pan

First things first—preheat your oven to a toasty 425°F. This high heat helps the breading crisp up beautifully while keeping the pork juicy inside. Line a rimmed baking sheet with either aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. This simple step saves time later and keeps the pork chops from sticking to the pan.

Step 2: Season and Dry Your Pork Chops

Pat your pork chops dry using paper towels—this is key for helping the mayonnaise and breadcrumb coating stick properly. Once dry, sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper to taste. Even a light seasoning will perk up the pork’s natural flavor and balance the crispy crust.

Step 3: Mix Up the Flavorful Breading

In a shallow bowl, combine 1½ cups plain breadcrumbs with your carefully measured seasonings: 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon celery seed. Stir in ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, which adds that irresistible umami crunch. Mixing everything evenly ensures every bite delivers consistent flavor.

Step 4: Coat Pork Chops with Mayonnaise and Breadcrumbs

Now for the fun part! Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on one side of a pork chop—this not only helps the crumbs stick but locks in moisture for juicy meat. Press the mayo side down into the breadcrumb mixture and gently press to ensure an even, thorough coating. Flip the chop over, repeat with mayo, and sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on the other side, again pressing lightly to adhere. Place each coated chop on your prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining pork chops.

Step 5: Bake to Crispy, Juicy Perfection

Before sliding your baking sheet into the oven, give the tops of the pork chops a light spritz of cooking spray. This extra fat helps create a golden, crunchy crust. Bake for 20 minutes or until an internal temperature of 145°F is reached—the perfect balance of safe doneness and tender juiciness. You’ll know they’re done when the crust looks golden and slightly crisped around the edges.

Step 6: Rest and Serve with Fresh Lemon

Once out of the oven, let your pork chops rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Resting lets the juices redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful. Sprinkle fresh minced parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness, and don’t forget the lemon wedges! A squeeze of lemon brightens the rich, savory coating and adds that perfect zesty finish.

Top Tip

Getting those Crispy Breaded Pork Chops with Lemon just right can be so rewarding! Here are some tips that have made all the difference in my kitchen to get juicy, tender chops with a perfectly golden crust.

Mayonnaise Magic: Using mayonnaise as the “glue” for the breading keeps the pork chops super moist and creates that unbeatable crispy crust when baked.
Pat Dry Pork Chops: I learned the hard way that drying your pork chops well before seasoning really helps the breading stick better and prevents sogginess.
Don’t Skip the Rest: Let the chops rest a few minutes after baking—this simple step locks in all those delicious juices and keeps every bite tender.
Even Coating: Press the breadcrumb mixture gently but firmly on both sides to ensure an even crust that bakes up crispy every time without falling off.

How to Serve Crispy Breaded Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe

The image shows six steps of making a breaded meat dish on a white marbled surface. The first image features a white bowl with a flat, even layer of light brown breadcrumbs inside. The second image shows four raw meat pieces on a white tray, each covered with a spread of creamy white mayonnaise. The third image displays one raw meat piece placed in the center of the white bowl with breadcrumbs. The fourth image shows a single meat piece coated with mayonnaise resting on top of breadcrumbs in the bowl. In the fifth image, the meat is fully coated with breadcrumbs, sitting inside the bowl. The last image presents four finished meat pieces, fully breaded and ready, laid out side by side on a white tray. A wooden spoon with breadcrumbs is near the bowl, and a woman's hand appears holding breadcrumbs in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh minced parsley sprinkled right before serving adds a lovely burst of color and freshness. Don’t forget the lemon wedges—their bright, zesty juice beautifully cuts through the richness of the breading and elevates the flavor with a refreshing citrus zing.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with classic mashed potatoes or a creamy risotto to balance the crispy chops. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans add vibrant color and a satisfying crunch. For a lighter option, a crisp garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the lemony pork chops perfectly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After the pork chops have fully cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for up to 3 days. This makes it easy to enjoy your Crispy Breaded Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe for several meals without extra effort.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked pork chops wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. For best quality, consume within 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To keep the crispiness when reheating, warm the pork chops in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the crust soggy. You can also reheat in an air fryer for a few minutes to restore crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind bone-in pork chops might take a few minutes longer to cook through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

Is there a healthier alternative to mayonnaise for the breading?

Yes! Greek yogurt works great as a lighter substitute in the breading process and still helps the coating stick while adding a slight tang.

Can I prepare the breaded pork chops ahead of time?

You can bread the pork chops ahead and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just bring them to room temperature before cooking for even baking.

How do I know when the pork chops are done?

The best way is using an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part. The chops are safe and juicy when they reach 145°F.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this Crispy Breaded Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe as much as I do. It brings together that perfect crispy crust, juicy pork, and a bright lemon touch that turns any dinner into something special with so little fuss. Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a casual weekend treat, these chops are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking and savor every delicious bite!