Frying pork chops in an electric skillet is a quick and easy way to make a delicious dinner. With the right technique, you can achieve crispy, browned chops with tender juicy interiors every time.
As someone who loves hosting family dinners, I’ve learned a few tricks over the years for frying up foolproof pork chops. An electric skillet makes the process so much simpler by providing consistent, even heat. The chops come out perfectly cooked with minimal effort.
In this article, I’ll share my step-by-step method for frying pork chops in an electric skillet You’ll learn how to choose the right cuts of meat, prep and season the chops, maintain the ideal frying temperature, and more Let’s get cooking!
Benefits of Using an Electric Skillet
Frying pork chops in an electric skillet has some major advantages over using a skillet on the stovetop:
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Consistent heat: Electric skillets allow you to precisely control the temperature. No more worrying about hot and cold spots.
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Even browning: The chops will brown evenly on both sides, instead of curling up and cooking unevenly.
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Less smoking: With regulated heat, there’s less chance of the oil smoking and making a mess.
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Portability: Just plug in the electric skillet anywhere you have an outlet. Great for holidays and family gatherings.
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Multitasking: You can prep other parts of the meal while the chops cook unattended.
Tips for Selecting Pork Chops
The first step is choosing the right pork chops at the grocery store:
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Go for bone-in chops: The bone adds moisture and flavor as the chops cook.
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Get 1-inch thick chops: Thinner chops overcook too quickly. Go for at least 1 inch.
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Choose center cut: Center cut chops tend to be the most tender.
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Look for some marbling: A little fat running through the chops keeps them juicy.
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Pick a size: Go for individual 4-6 oz chops or larger 8-12 oz chops for sharing.
Seasoning the Pork Chops
Now it’s time to prep the chops before frying. Here are my tips:
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Pat the chops dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the surface. This helps them get crispy.
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Apply salt and pepper: Generously season both sides with salt and pepper. I like coarse sea salt.
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Consider extra seasoning: Smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano, or poultry seasoning are all good options.
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Let them sit: After seasoning, let the chops rest for 10-15 minutes before frying. This allows the seasoning and salt to penetrate the meat.
Heating the Electric Skillet
Properly preheating the electric skillet is key for success:
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Select a temperature: For frying, heat the skillet to 325-350°F. This prevents the exterior from overcooking before the inside is done.
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Allow it to fully preheat: Give the skillet 10-15 minutes to come up to temperature before adding oil or chops.
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Use a thermometer: An electric skillet thermometer helps maintain the ideal temperature.
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Don’t overcrowd: Cook chops in batches to prevent temperature drops when you add the meat.
Frying the Pork Chops
Once your electric skillet is hot and ready, it’s time to fry:
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Coat with oil: Add just enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom of the skillet, about 1-2 tbsp.
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Carefully add chops: Gently lay the chops in the skillet, spacing them apart. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
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Don’t move them: Let the chops cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is nicely browned.
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Flip and cook: Carefully flip each chop and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the second side.
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Check temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chops have reached 145°F internally when done.
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Transfer to a plate: Remove the cooked chops to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
Finishing Touches
A few final touches make the pork chops really stand out:
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Let them rest: Give the chops 5-10 minutes to rest after cooking. This allows the juices to reabsorb for more flavorful meat.
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Add a pan sauce: Make a quick pan sauce with the browned bits left in the skillet. Broth, wine, mustard are all options.
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Serve with sides: Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad complement fried pork chops wonderfully.
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Garnish: Fresh chopped parsley, chives, or thyme add a pop of color and flavor. Lemon wedges also pair nicely.
Common Questions
If you’re new to making fried pork chops in an electric skillet, here are some helpful answers:
How long does it take to fry pork chops?
For 1-inch thick bone-in chops, expect roughly 8-10 minutes total cooking time, flipping halfway. Thinner chops may take only 6-8 minutes.
What oil is best for frying pork chops?
I recommend using a neutral vegetable oil like canola or grapeseed with a high smoke point. Olive oil can also work well.
Do you dredge pork chops in flour before frying?
Dredging in flour is optional, but does help form a crispy crust on the exterior of the chops. Use all-purpose flour seasoned with salt and pepper.
What temperature should pork chops reach when done?
Always use a meat thermometer for the most accurate doneness. Cook until the chops reach 145°F internally. This ensures they are completely done but not overcooked.
Should pork chops rest after frying?
Yes! Letting the chops rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. This makes them extra moist and flavorful.
Get Frying!
Now you have all the tools you need for making mouthwatering fried pork chops right from your electric skillet. With the proper technique, you’ll enjoy perfectly cooked, crispy chops every time.
Frying pork chops in an electric skillet offers convenience while also yielding delicious results the whole family will love. Invite some friends over and put this easy dinner recipe to the test! From prep to table, you’ll soon see why this has become my go-to method for juicy, flavorful pork chops worth looking forward to.