Are you on a keto diet and craving a delicious, crunchy, and satisfying meal? Look no further! Our Keto Pecan-Crusted Pork Chops in the Air Fryer are here to save the day. This recipe combines the rich flavors of pork with the nutty goodness of pecans, all while keeping your carb count low. Plus, the air fryer makes cooking a breeze, ensuring you get that perfect, crispy crust without excess oil. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress your taste buds and your commitment to a low-carb lifestyle.
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 cup of crushed pecans
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
For the Egg Wash:
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions
Preparing the Pork Chops:
- Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps the pecan crust adhere better.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the crushed pecans, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the pecan coating.
Coating the Pork Chops:
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream to create the egg wash.
- Dip each pork chop into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Transfer the pork chop to the pecan mixture, pressing the coating onto both sides of the chop. Make sure the chop is evenly coated with the pecan mixture.
Cooking in the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the coated pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping the chops halfway through, until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your chops and the air fryer model, so use a meat thermometer to be sure.
- Once done, remove the pecan-crusted pork chops from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips
- Make sure your pork chops are of uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t skip the step of patting the pork chops dry; this helps the coating stick better.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pecan mixture.
- For extra crunch, you can double coat the pork chops. Just dip them back into the egg wash and pecan mixture after the initial coating.
Variation: Keto-Friendly Dipping Sauce
Take your Keto Pecan-Crusted Pork Chops to the next level with a delicious dipping sauce. Here’s a quick and easy recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, and chopped fresh dill.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the pecan-crusted pork chops with this zesty dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
In conclusion, our Keto Pecan-Crusted Pork Chops in the Air Fryer are a keto dieter’s dream come true. This recipe offers a satisfying crunch without the guilt of excessive carbs. By following these simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. The combination of the nutty pecans, savory Parmesan cheese, and perfectly cooked pork chops will have your taste buds singing.
So, the next time you’re looking for a keto-friendly meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious, give our Pecan-Crusted Pork Chops in the Air Fryer a try. It’s a mouthwatering masterpiece that proves you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for a low-carb lifestyle. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and happy cooking!
