Zesty Lemon Herb-Crusted Pork Chops
Elevate your dinner with these Zesty Lemon Herb-Crusted Pork Chops, a delightful twist on a classic dish. Marinated in a tangy lemon pepper marinade, these pork chops are not only incredibly moist but also bursting with flavor. The crispy cornflake crust, enhanced with Italian herbs and parmesan cheese, adds a wonderful texture that complements the juicy meat. This dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering. Pair it with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Note: Cook time does not include the marinade time.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pork loin chops
4 (1/2 inch thick)
Lemon pepper marinade
1/2 cup
Corn flake crumbs
1/2 cup
Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon
Garlic powder
1 teaspoon
Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (grated)
Cooking spray
as needed
Instructions
1
Begin by pouring the lemon pepper marinade over the pork loin chops in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Make sure the chops are well-coated, then refrigerate for at least one hour to soak up the flavors.
2
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, prepare the crumb mixture by combining the corn flake crumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and parmesan cheese in a bowl. Mix well until evenly blended.
3
After marinating, remove the pork chops from the marinade and gently shake off any excess liquid. Dredge each chop in the crumb mixture, coating both sides thoroughly.
4
Lightly spray a casserole dish with cooking spray, then arrange the coated pork chops in the dish. For an added touch of crispiness, spray the tops of the chops with cooking spray too.
5
Bake the pork chops in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, increase the temperature to 425°F (220°C) without removing the chops. Continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6
Once cooked, remove the chops from the oven and cover them with aluminum foil. Allow them to rest for about 10 minutes to retain their juices and enhance the flavor.
7
Serve the lemon herb pork chops warm, and enjoy this delicious meal!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Zesty Lemon Herb-Crusted Pork Chops?
This is a flavorful dish featuring pork loin chops marinated in lemon pepper and coated in a crispy cornflake and parmesan crust.
What kind of pork chops should I use for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 pork loin chops, specifically 1/2 inch thick for optimal cooking.
Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of loin chops?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they reach the safe internal temperature.
What ingredients are in the crust mixture?
The crust is made from a blend of corn flake crumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and grated parmesan cheese.
Do I have to use corn flake crumbs for the breading?
Corn flake crumbs provide a unique crunch, but you can use panko or regular breadcrumbs if you prefer a different texture.
What is a good substitute for corn flake crumbs?
Panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers are excellent substitutes for maintaining a crispy texture on the pork chops.
What kind of marinade is used for this pork recipe?
A tangy lemon pepper marinade is used to tenderize the meat and infuse it with zesty flavor.
Can I make my own lemon pepper marinade?
Absolutely, a homemade mix of lemon juice, olive oil, cracked black pepper, and garlic works well as a substitute.
Is parmesan cheese necessary for the crust?
While it can be omitted, parmesan adds a salty, savory depth and helps the crust brown beautifully in the oven.
Can I add other spices to the coating?
Yes, feel free to add onion powder, paprika, or dried parsley to the crumb mixture to customize the flavor profile.
How long should I marinate the pork chops?
You should marinate the pork chops for at least one hour in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Why do I need to marinate the pork?
Marinating helps the meat soak up flavors and ensures the pork chops remain incredibly moist and juicy during the baking process.
Can I marinate the pork chops overnight?
Yes, marinating longer can deepen the flavor, though try not to exceed 24 hours as the lemon acid can eventually affect the meat's texture.
At what temperature do I preheat the oven?
Begin the cooking process by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
Why does the oven temperature change during baking?
Increasing the temperature to 425 degrees Fahrenheit for the final 10 minutes helps to crisp up the cornflake crust.
How long do I bake the pork chops in total?
The total baking time is 20 minutes: 10 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit followed by 10 minutes at 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
What should the internal temperature of the pork be?
The pork chops are safe and ready to eat once they reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius).
Why should I spray the tops with cooking spray?
Spraying the tops of the breaded chops with cooking spray helps the coating become extra crispy and golden brown.
Should I flip the pork chops halfway through cooking?
It is not necessary to flip them, as the temperature increase and the cooking spray are designed to crisp the top effectively.
How do I know when the pork is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the pork chop has reached the target temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
Why should I let the pork chops rest after baking?
Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, which keeps the chops moist and enhances the final flavor.
How long should the pork chops rest?
Allow the pork chops to rest for about 10 minutes while covered with aluminum foil before serving.
What side dishes pair well with these pork chops?
They pair perfectly with a fresh garden salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Are these pork chops gluten-free?
As written, they may contain gluten from the corn flakes or marinade; check labels carefully to ensure all ingredients are safe.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute certified gluten-free corn flake crumbs and ensure your lemon pepper marinade is labeled gluten-free.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
How can I reheat the leftovers to keep them crispy?
Reheat leftovers in an oven or air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit rather than a microwave to maintain the crust's crunch.
Can I freeze the marinated pork chops?
Yes, you can freeze the chops in the marinade, but for the best texture, apply the breading just before you plan to bake them.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, the active preparation and cooking time are minimal, making it a great choice for busy evenings if you marinate in advance.
Can I air fry these pork chops instead of baking?
Yes, you can air fry them at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 12 to 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.