10/10/2026
Southern Fried Pork Chops
Ingredients
* 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup buttermilk
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1 teaspoon paprika
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
* 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
* Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
1. Prepare the pork chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried thyme.
2. Prepare the coating: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce. In another bowl, combine the flour with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if desired.
3. Coat the pork chops: Dip each pork chop into the buttermilk mixture, allowing the excess to drip off. Then dredge it thoroughly in the seasoned flour, pressing gently so the coating sticks. For an extra-crispy crust, dip it into the buttermilk mixture and flour a second time.
4. Heat the oil: Pour about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil into a large, heavy skillet. Heat over medium heat until the oil reaches approximately 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry the pork chops: Carefully place the coated pork chops into the hot oil without overcrowding the skillet. Fry for about 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest.
6. Drain and rest: Transfer the fried pork chops to a wire rack or a paper towel-lined plate. Let them rest for a few minutes to keep the meat juicy and the crust crispy.
7. Serve: Serve warm with creamy mashed potatoes, Southern green beans, buttery cornbread, or homemade country gravy.