Crispy, golden brown pork schnitzel is a delicious treat that’s usually fried, resulting in a greasy mess. But my air fryer pork schnitzel is a healthier version that’s just as tasty!
With a light breadcrumb coating seasoned with basil, oregano, paprika, and more, these schnitzels bake up incredibly crispy outside and juicy inside in the air fryer.
Making schnitzel at home is easier than you think. These thin pork chops cook up quick, and pounding them beforehand helps them get extra crispy. The step-by-step instructions show you how to bread and cook these the easy way. No deep frying required!
If you love schnitzel, you have to try this air fryer version. The herb-flavored panko breading gets perfectly crispy and compliments the pork wonderfully. Even better, by using the air fryer you cut out a ton of fat and calories.
I know you and your family will devour this healthier pork schnitzel recipe in no time! Scroll down to see the simple ingredients and instructions.
💖 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Convenient- With only a few ingredients and simple prep, you can have these schnitzels on the table in no time thanks to the speedy air fryer cooking.
It doesn’t get much easier than pounding some chops, coating in crumbs, and tossing them in the air fryer. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Crispy Without the Fat- Get that satisfying, crispy fried texture without the grease! The air fryer gives you golden, crunchy schnitzels using just a spray of oil. You won’t believe these weren’t deep fried.
Flavorful Seasoned Coating- Italian herbs, garlic, paprika, and salt give these schnitzels a flavor boost. The panko breading becomes super aromatic and tasty as it crisps.
✨ Recipe Ingredients
For this air fryer pork schnitzel recipe you will need:
- 4 Boneless Pork Chops (half inch thick)
- 1/4 cup Flour
- 3/4 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- 1 Egg (large)
- 1 teaspoon Basil (dried)
- 3/4 teaspoon Oregano (dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Paprika
- 1/3 teaspoon Garlic Powder
👨🍳 How To Make
Follow this easy pork schnitzel in air fryer recipe:
Step 1
Lay the boneless pork chops on a clean surface, and top with parchment paper. Use a mallet to pound the chops.
Step 2
Add the flour to a bowl. Then, whisk the egg in another bowl. In a third bowl- mix the breadcrumbs with all the seasonings.
Step 3
Cover each pork chop in the flour. Then, dip it in the egg, and finally- coat it with the panko mixture.
Step 4
Place the pork chops in the air fryer (in a single layer. Cook in batches if needed), and spray them with cooking oil ( I use olive oil).
Step 5
Air fry at 400F for 5-6 minutes. Then, flip them over, spray them with cooking oil, and air fry for 4-5 more minutes. The internal temperature should reach 145F and the coating will become crispy.
Step 6
Remove from the air fryer and let them cool for at least 5 minutes before serving. That’s it! Enjoy this tasty air fryer pork schnitzel recipe.
💡Tips
1. Allow Meat to Rest Before Serving
This schnitzel turns out so juicy and delicious! But be sure let the chops rest for 5 minutes after cooking, as the recipe states. This short resting period finishes the cooking process, allowing juices to redistribute evenly within the meat.
Slice into a chop straight out of the hot air fryer and juices spill out everywhere. By resting first, all that wonderful flavorful juice stays locked inside your juicy pork!
2. Allow Time for Breadcrumbs to Adhere
After pounding the chops, fully coat each one in flour, egg wash, and seasoned breadcrumbs, in that order. When coating in the egg wash, allow excess to drip off before transferring to the breadcrumbs.
Gently press the breadcrumbs onto each chop to help them adhere. Then place the breaded chops on a clean plate or baking sheet, and allow them to sit for 5-10 minutes before frying. This short rest allows the breading to better cling to the meat, preventing it from falling off in the air fryer.
3. Pound the Pork Properly
Pounding the pork chops is an important first step in this recipe. Using a mallet or meat tenderizer, pound each chop until it is about 1/2 inch thick. This helps the pork cook evenly and allows the breading to adhere nicely.
Pound gently but firmly, being careful not to tear the meat. Take your time and make sure each chop is pounded to an even thickness. Proper pounding results in a juicy and tender interior with a wonderfully crispy exterior when fried.
Variations
1. Italian-Style Pork Schnitzel- This tasty variation adds classic Italian flavors like parmesan and oregano to give the schnitzel a zesty kick. Simply mix 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb coating along with 2 teaspoons dried oregano, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, and salt and black pepper to taste.
Fry as directed, then garnish with lemon wedges and extra parmesan cheese before serving for a delicious Italian-inspired spin.
2. Tex Mex Pork Schnitzel- For a southwestern twist, add 2 teaspoons cumin, 2 teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to taste to the breadcrumb mixture.
Top the fried schnitzel with guacamole, pico de gallo, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime before serving for a tasty Tex-Mex treat. Ole!
3. Asian Pork Schnitzel– This variation adds tasty Asian zing to pork schnitzel. Make an Asian breading by mixing the panko crumbs with 2 teaspoons Chinese five spice powder, 1 teaspoon ginger powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and salt to taste.
Garnish the crispy fried schnitzel with sliced green onions and serve with a sweet and sour sauce or chili garlic sauce on the side. A savory, gingery twist on a classic.
4. Cordon Bleu Schnitzel- For a restaurant-worthy take, pound ham slices thin and cut into pieces that match the size of the pork chops. Layer the ham and 2-3 slices of Swiss cheese on each pork chop, pressing to adhere.
Bread and fry the schnitzel as directed until the cheese is perfectly melted and the ham gets crispy on the edges. An elegant, protein-packed schnitzel worthy of a fine French bistro. Magnifique!
5. Ranch Pork Schnitzel- This family-friendly schnitzel gets topped with a savory, creamy ranch mixture that takes it over the top. In a small bowl, mix 1⁄4 cup ranch dressing with 2 tablespoons each chopped fresh parsley, chives, and dill.
Bread and fry the pork chops as directed. As soon as they come out of the fryer, brush the ranch mixture over the top. Kids and adults alike will devour this crispy, ranch-coated schnitzel.
Keto / Low Carb Version
To make this recipe keto-friendly and low in carbs, there are a few simple substitutions we can make:
Instead of using regular flour, use almond flour or coconut flour to dredge the pork chops. This removes all the carbs and grains.
Substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond meal/flour. You can add all the same herbs and seasonings to flavor them.
For even more crunch, you could coat the chops in crushed parmesan cheese after dipping in the egg wash.
Gluten Free Version
To make a gluten free version of this air fryer pork schnitzel recipe, instead of using regular flour and breadcrumbs which contain gluten, use the following gluten free substitutions:
For the flour, use a gluten free all-purpose flour blend. There are many brands that make gluten free flour mixes.
For the breadcrumbs, use gluten free panko breadcrumbs or regular gluten free breadcrumbs. Alternatively, you can make your own breadcrumbs by processing gluten free bread in a food processor into fine crumbs.
Dipping Sauces
Here are 3 delicious dipping sauces that would pair nicely with the air fryer pork schnitzel:
1. Spicy Brown Mustard– The tangy and spicy flavor of brown mustard is a classic accompaniment to crispy pork dishes like schnitzel.
Adding some additional spices like cayenne or hot sauce kicks it up a notch, complementing the crunchy exterior of the schnitzel. The creaminess of the mustard sauce balances beautifully with the crisp texture.
2. Lemon Wedge – Few things brighten up a fried dish like a fresh lemon wedge for squeezing over the top. The acidic brightness cuts perfectly through the rich, savory flavors and offers contrast to the breadcrumb coating.
This is an essential condiment for schnitzel that allows the herbs and spices to shine. The fresh lemon juice also balances some of the heaviness.
3. Herb Sour Cream – Cool and creamy sour cream makes the ideal schnitzel sauce, with fresh chopped herbs like parsley, chives and dill adding vibrant flavor.
The dairy-based richness melds flawlessly with the crispy fried exterior, while the herbs provide aromatic contrast. Dollop on some of this quick sauce for a tangy, smooth finish.
Storage
This air fryer pork schnitzel is best when eaten freshly made. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cooked pork schnitzel for up to 3 months.
Side Dishes Ideas
Here are 5 delicious side dish ideas that will pair perfectly with the Air Fryer Pork Schnitzel:
1. Air Fryer Curly Fries – Crispy, golden curly fries are a classic pairing with schnitzel or any breaded meat. The crunch of the fries contrasts nicely with the tender schnitzel.
Air frying the fries makes them crispy on the outside while keeping them fluffy on the inside, without the need for deep frying. The slight seasoning on the fries also balances well with the flavors of the schnitzel.
2. Air Fryer Home Fries – Home fries go great with all kinds of meat dishes. Cubed potatoes fried up with onions and peppers till slightly crispy on the outside while still fluffy inside.
The additional veggies add nice flavor and texture. And air frying gives that crispy edge without a lot of added fat or oil. A hearty, delicious pairing for the pork schnitzel.
3. Roasted Broccoli – The slight char and caramelized notes of roasted broccoli pairs nicely with the crispy breading and pork. Roasting brings out the veggies’ natural sweetness which balances the savory schnitzel.
Quick to make with simple seasoning of salt, pepper and olive oil. A lighter side that won’t weigh your meal down.
4. Green Salad with Vinaigrette – A fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette dressing perfectly offsets a heavy, fried dish like pork schnitzel.
The brightness and acidity of the vinegar combined with the rich pork is a match made in heaven. Lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes make a crisp, refreshing salad.
5. Buttered Noodles – Buttered noodles are simple but effective companion for schnitzel. The starch and slight richness from the butter is a fitting foil for the crispy pork cutlet.
Egg noodles, lingunie or farfalle all work well. Toss them in melted butter, salt, pepper and parsley for a straightforward classic. The soft, smooth noodles contrast with the crunchy breaded meat.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, you can substitute regular or Italian-style breadcrumbs for the panko. The texture may come out a bit less crispy.
2. Why is baking powder added to the flour mixture?
Baking powder is added to create a light, crispy texture. It aids in leavening the coating, allowing it to puff up slightly during the air frying process, resulting in a crunchier exterior.
3. Can I skip the pounding step?
Pounding the pork chops tenderizes them and ensures even cooking. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step. Just be aware that the chops might take a couple of minutes longer to cook through.
Why Air Frying Pork Schnitzel is Healthier
Air fried schnitzel is not only better for your health, but it retains the crispy exterior and moist, tender interior that makes pork schnitzel such an irresistible dish. For a delicious but guilt-free version of this Austrian favorite, choose air fried over oil-drenched. Your waistline and heart will thank you!
That’s all there is to making these delicious air fryer pork schnitzel! With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a tasty, crispy pork dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
Be sure to check out more easy air fryer recipes on the website, and let us know in the comments if you have any questions about making this schnitzel or if you have a favorite variation. Thanks for reading!
Air Fryer Pork Schnitzel
- 4 Boneless Pork Chops (half inch thick)
- 1/4 cup Flour
- 3/4 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- 1 Egg (large)
- 1 teaspoon Basil (dried)
- 3/4 teaspoon Oregano (dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Paprika
- 1/3 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- Lay the boneless pork chops on a clean surface, and top with parchment paper. Use a mallet to pound the chops.
- Add the flour to a bowl. Then, whisk the egg in another bowl. In a third bowl- mix the breadcrumbs with all the seasonings.
- Cover each pork chop in the flour.Then, dip it in the egg, and finally- coat it with the panko mixture.
- Place the pork chops in the air fryer (in a single layer. Cook in batches if needed), and spray them with cooking oil ( I use olive oil).
- Air fry at 400F for 5-6 minutes. Then, flip them over, spray them with cooking oil, and air fry for 4-5 more minutes. The internal temperature should reach 145F and the coating will become crispy.
- Remove from the air fryer and let them cool for at least 5 minutes before serving. That’s it! Enjoy this tasty air fryer pork schnitzel recipe.
