Introduction
Southern fried pork chops are one of those timeless dishes that bring people together. Whether it is a Sunday dinner with family or a comforting weeknight meal, this dish has a way of making everyone feel at home. The crispy golden crust, the tender juicy meat, and the rich Southern flavor all come together in the most delicious way. If you grew up in the South, chances are you have fond memories of your grandmother or mother standing over a hot skillet, frying pork chops to perfection. And if you didn’t grow up with this dish, now is the perfect time to make it part of your own kitchen tradition.
This recipe is all about simplicity. You do not need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. Just a few pantry staples, a hot pan, and a bit of love. That is what Southern cooking is all about. It is comforting, flavorful, and always satisfying. These pork chops are seasoned well, soaked in buttermilk to keep them moist, then coated in a seasoned flour mixture and fried until golden brown. The result is a beautiful crunch on the outside with perfectly tender meat inside.
In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know to make the best Southern fried pork chops. We will walk through the ingredients, cooking steps, tips for customizing, nutritional facts, and how to serve them. Whether you are a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is one you will come back to again and again.
Ingredients Needed
To make delicious Southern fried pork chops, you will only need a handful of ingredients. These are all easy to find and most likely already in your kitchen. The key to great flavor is seasoning every step of the way. From the buttermilk marinade to the flour coating, each layer adds depth to the final dish.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories (Approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Bone-in pork chops | 4 chops (6 oz each) | 920 kcal total |
| Buttermilk | 1 cup | 150 kcal |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup | 455 kcal |
| Cornstarch (optional) | 2 tablespoons | 60 kcal |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | 0 kcal |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon | 6 kcal |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon | 6 kcal |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | 10 kcal |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon | 8 kcal |
| Hot sauce (optional) | 1 teaspoon | 0 kcal |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | 1½ cups (absorbed) | ~240 kcal absorbed |
These ingredients are the foundation of this dish. The buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and adds a slight tang. The cornstarch, when combined with flour, creates a crispier coating. Seasonings like garlic, paprika, and onion powder give the pork chops that classic Southern flavor.
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making Southern fried pork chops is not difficult. Follow these steps and you will have a dish that tastes like it came from your grandma’s kitchen.
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps the buttermilk stick better. If your pork chops are very thick, you can pound them slightly for even cooking. Bone-in chops are best for flavor, but boneless will work too.
Place the pork chops in a bowl or resealable bag. Pour in the buttermilk and a splash of hot sauce if using. The acid in the buttermilk breaks down the proteins in the meat, making the pork juicy and tender. Let the pork chops soak for at least 30 minutes. For best results, leave them overnight in the refrigerator.
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices. This seasoned flour gives the pork chops their signature flavor and crunch.
Take the pork chops out of the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Coat each chop in the flour mixture, pressing firmly so the flour sticks well. Shake off any excess and place the dredged chops on a wire rack. Let them rest for 10 minutes. This helps the coating stay on during frying.
Pour vegetable oil into a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan. You need enough oil to cover about half the thickness of the pork chops. Heat the oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a thermometer for accuracy. If the oil is too cool, the coating will be soggy. If it’s too hot, the crust will burn before the meat cooks through.
Carefully place the pork chops into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if needed. Cook each side for 4 to 5 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip them gently. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should read 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once cooked, transfer the pork chops to a paper towel-lined plate or a clean wire rack. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This keeps the juices locked inside and helps the crust stay crispy.
Read More: Easy Smothered Pork Chops Recipe
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
This recipe is easy to adjust based on your taste or dietary needs. Here are a few simple ways to make it your own.
If you like spicy food, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mix. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. Want something more herbaceous? Try adding dried thyme or rosemary to the seasoning blend.
For a lighter version, you can oven-fry the pork chops. Coat them as usual, then bake on a greased baking rack at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 to 30 minutes. Turn halfway through for even browning.
Gluten-free? No problem. Use a gluten-free flour blend and cornstarch. The result is still crispy and delicious.
You can also switch up the protein. This same method works well with chicken thighs or even thin pork cutlets if you want a quicker meal.
Nutritional Information
Here is a general breakdown of the nutritional values per serving, assuming one pork chop with some of the oil absorbed during frying.
| Nutrient | Amount (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 650 kcal |
| Protein | 38 grams |
| Total Fat | 38 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 7 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 28 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sugar | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 600 milligrams |
| Cholesterol | 110 milligrams |
Keep in mind that the calorie count can vary based on the size of your pork chops, the type of oil used, and how much is absorbed during frying.
Serving Suggestions
Southern fried pork chops are incredibly versatile. You can pair them with all kinds of side dishes to create a complete meal.
Some classic options include creamy mashed potatoes with gravy, buttery cornbread, or cheesy baked macaroni. For something lighter, try steamed green beans, sautéed spinach, or a simple side salad. Collard greens or black-eyed peas add a traditional Southern touch.
Want to take it up a notch? Drizzle a bit of hot honey over the top of the pork chops before serving. Or serve with pickles or a dollop of coleslaw to balance the richness of the meat.
These pork chops also make a great sandwich. Just tuck one into a soft roll with lettuce, tomato, and mayo for a delicious homemade fried pork sandwich.
Read More: Easy Pan Fried Potatoes and Onions
Conclusion
Southern fried pork chops are the kind of meal that brings comfort with every bite. They are crispy, juicy, full of flavor, and surprisingly simple to make. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of care, you can create a dish that feels like home. Whether you are cooking for your family or just yourself, this recipe will never disappoint.
Now that you know how to make them, give it a try. Don’t be afraid to put your own twist on it. Cooking is about sharing love and flavor, and these pork chops do exactly that.