Quick Description
These High-Protein Parmesan Baked Pork Chops are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with protein. Coated in a flavorful parmesan breadcrumb crust and oven-baked to golden perfection, they’re a simple, satisfying dinner that feels indulgent but fits a healthy lifestyle.
Servings & Timing
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: ~40 minutes
Ingredients List
Pork Chops
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
Coating
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian bread crumbs (or high-protein crumbs)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare Coating
In a shallow bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.
3. Coat Pork Chops
Brush both sides of each pork chop lightly with olive oil.
Press each pork chop firmly into the Parmesan mixture, coating both sides well.
4. Bake
Place pork chops on the baking sheet.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest & Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep them juicy.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: 360
Protein: 42g
Carbs: 14g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Benefits
- High-Protein Dinner – excellent for muscle recovery
- Oven-Baked – no frying required
- Low Carb Friendly
- Family Approved Comfort Food
- Simple Ingredients
Additional Notes
- Use finely grated parmesan for best crust
- Spray lightly with oil for extra crispiness
- Don’t overbake or chops may dry out
- Let rest before cutting
Dietary Info
High-Protein: ✅
Low-Carb Option: ✅ (use almond flour crumbs)
Gluten-Free Option: ✅ (use GF breadcrumbs)
Keto Option: ✅ (use pork rind crumbs)
Brief Introduction
Pork chops are one of the easiest ways to get a high-protein meal on the table fast. This parmesan crusted version turns a simple cut of meat into something crispy, comforting, and restaurant-worthy — without deep frying.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Preheat oven
- Mix coating ingredients
- Brush pork with oil
- Coat thoroughly
- Bake until golden
- Rest
- Serve
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
Pork Chops:
Boneless or bone-in both work.
Parmesan Cheese:
Freshly grated melts and crisps better.
Bread Crumbs:
Swap for almond flour or protein crumbs for low-carb.
Olive Oil:
Can replace with avocado oil.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Variations
- Lemon parmesan version
- Spicy version (add chili flakes)
- Ranch parmesan version
- Herb crusted version
Serve With
- Roasted vegetables
- Cauliflower mash
- Green beans
- Side salad
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerate: up to 3 days
Freeze: up to 2 months (uncooked or cooked)
Reheat: oven or air fryer for best texture
FAQs
Can I air fry these?
Yes – cook at 375°F for 12–15 minutes.
Can I use chicken instead?
Absolutely.
Why isn’t my crust crispy?
Use fine parmesan and bake on a rack if possible.
Can I prep ahead?
Yes, coat and refrigerate up to 24 hours.
Optional Personal Story
This is one of those recipes I make when I want something crispy without breaking my routine. It feels like comfort food but keeps me full for hours.
