Name: Crispy Baked Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless pork chops about 1 inch thick; salt and pepper to taste; 1 1/2 cups plain breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon celery seed; 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1/3 cup mayonnaise; Fresh minced parsley, for garnish; Lemon wedges, for serving

Nothing beats the satisfying crunch and bright zing of my Crispy Baked Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe. This dish brings together juicy pork chops coated in a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust, all finished with a refreshing lemon twist. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want it on repeat for easy weeknight dinners!

The image shows a white plate with three golden-brown fried chicken pieces stacked close to each other on the left side. The top piece is pierced by a black fork held by a woman's hand, revealing a crispy, textured crust with small herbs sprinkled on top. Underneath the fried chicken, there are two bright yellow lemon slices partly visible. On the right side of the plate, there is a pile of fresh, bright green cut green beans. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Baked Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Crispy Baked Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Crispy Baked Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s foolproof and gives you perfectly crispy pork chops without the mess of frying. Plus, the lemony finish adds such a fresh, vibrant note that brightens up the whole plate.

Crispy and Juicy: The breadcrumb and Parmesan crust bakes up crunchy, while the pork inside stays tender and juicy.
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish — perfect for busy nights.
Bright Lemon Flavor: Lemon wedges and parsley add a fresh, zesty finish that cuts through the richness.
Minimal Cleanup: Baking on a sheet lined with foil means cleanup is a breeze.

Ingredients & Why They Work

When you shop for these ingredients, try to pick fresh pork chops that are about 1 inch thick for the best texture. Using freshly grated Parmesan and plain breadcrumbs gives the coating a rich flavor and perfect crispiness.

Flat lay of four fresh boneless pork chops with clean white shells of two whole brown eggs resting nearby, a small white ceramic bowl filled with golden plain breadcrumbs, another small white bowl holding finely grated Parmesan cheese, a small white bowl containing smooth mayonnaise, fresh whole lemons cut into wedges alongside a few bright green sprigs of parsley, all arranged symmetrically and naturally on a simple white ceramic baking sheet, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Boneless pork chops: They cook evenly and stay juicy without the hassle of bones.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance the natural pork flavor.
Plain breadcrumbs: Provides that classic crunchy crust without overpowering flavors.
Kosher salt: Used in the breading for balanced seasoning.
Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and vibrant color.
Black pepper: A little heat to round out the flavor profile.
Garlic powder: Earthy undertones that complement the pork beautifully.
Onion powder: Adds depth and mild sweetness to the crust.
Celery seed: A hint of herbal brightness, unique but wonderfully subtle.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Melts slightly during baking to boost richness and texture.
Mayonnaise: Helps the breading stick perfectly and keeps the coating moist.
Fresh minced parsley: For garnish, it adds color and light herbal notes.
Lemon wedges: The essential citrus zing to finish each bite with brightness.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best parts of this Crispy Baked Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe is how easy it is to customize. Whether you're catering to dietary needs or switching up flavors based on what you have on hand, this dish is a fantastic canvas for creativity!

Variation: I love adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a gentle kick of heat. It transforms the flavor nicely without overpowering the lemony brightness.
Gluten-Free: Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko, and you’ve got a perfect option for gluten-sensitive diners. The crunch is just as satisfying!
Herb Boost: Toss in some dried thyme or rosemary to the breading for an herby depth that pairs beautifully with the lemon garnish.
Seasonal Twist: In warmer months, fresh lemon zest added right into the breadcrumb mix adds extra zing and a fresh aroma that wakes up your kitchen.
Cooking Method Change: Want a different texture? Try air-frying or pan-frying instead — both methods still deliver juicy pork chops with crispy edges, perfect if you want to switch things up.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Baked Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe

The dish shows a white plate with three parts: sliced golden brown crispy coated meat arranged in a slight curve on the left side, sprinkled with small green herb bits, and garnished with two lemon slices at the top left and one lemon slice at the bottom right of the meat; next to the meat, on the top right side, is a creamy light yellow mound of mashed potatoes with some small green herb pieces sprinkled on top and a small melting pat of butter; on the bottom right side, there are bright green steamed cut green beans placed neatly together. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Heat the Oven and Prep Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 425°F. Meanwhile, line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This keeps cleanup a breeze and ensures the pork chops don’t stick. Having everything ready before you bread the chops sets you up for smooth sailing in the kitchen.

Step 2: Season and Dry Your Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels—this step is key for getting that crispy coating to stick and brown beautifully. Then, season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy; a little seasoning goes a long way to enhance the natural pork flavor.

Step 3: Mix Up the Flavorful Breading

In a shallow bowl, combine your plain breadcrumbs with kosher salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, celery seed, and grated Parmesan cheese. Give everything a good stir until evenly blended. The Parmesan adds a wonderful umami and helps achieve a golden crust that’s irresistibly tasty.

Step 4: Coat Your Pork Chops

Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on one side of a pork chop. This might seem unusual, but the mayo locks in moisture and acts as the perfect adhesive for your breadcrumb mixture. Press the mayo-coated side firmly into the breadcrumb mix, then flip and repeat on the other side—this time sprinkling the breadcrumbs and pressing gently to coat. Lay the breaded chop on your prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining pork chops.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Before slipping the baking sheet into the oven, spray the tops of the breaded pork chops lightly with cooking spray. This helps the crust crisp up beautifully. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the pork registers an internal temperature of 145°F and the coating turns a gorgeous golden brown. Look for that irresistible crunch and a juicy interior—it’s the hallmark of this recipe.

Step 6: Rest, Garnish, and Serve

Once baked, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute so every bite is tender and moist. Serve with a sprinkle of freshly minced parsley and lemon wedges on the side. The fresh lemon adds an unmistakable brightness that perfectly balances the savory, crispy coating.

Top Tip

These tips will help you nail the perfect balance of juicy pork inside and that irresistible crispy crust on the outside—making your Crispy Baked Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe truly shine every time.

Dry Those Chops Well: Patting the pork chops dry before seasoning ensures the breading sticks beautifully and crisps up in the oven.
Mayonnaise Magic: Spreading a thin layer of mayonnaise on both sides acts like a secret adhesive, locking in moisture and creating that golden crust without frying in oil.
Don’t Skip the Rest: Let the chops rest for a few minutes after baking—this crucial pause keeps them juicy instead of drying out the minute you cut into them.
Perfect Oven Environment: Cooking at 425°F for 20 minutes hits the sweet spot between a well-browned crust and tender, fully cooked pork. Avoid lowering the temperature; it can make the crust soggy.

How to Serve Crispy Baked Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe

The image shows six steps of making a breaded meat dish on a white marbled surface. The first image features a white bowl with a flat, even layer of light brown breadcrumbs inside. The second image shows four raw meat pieces on a white tray, each covered with a spread of creamy white mayonnaise. The third image displays one raw meat piece placed in the center of the white bowl with breadcrumbs. The fourth image shows a single meat piece coated with mayonnaise resting on top of breadcrumbs in the bowl. In the fifth image, the meat is fully coated with breadcrumbs, sitting inside the bowl. The last image presents four finished meat pieces, fully breaded and ready, laid out side by side on a white tray. A wooden spoon with breadcrumbs is near the bowl, and a woman's hand appears holding breadcrumbs in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshness is key here—sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pork chops for a bright pop of color and an herbaceous note. Don’t hold back on serving lemon wedges alongside; a quick squeeze of lemon juice right before taking a bite livens up the rich, crispy coating and adds a delightful citrusy zing.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides to balance the richness. Think garlic roasted green beans, a refreshing cucumber salad, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a simple quinoa pilaf. For a cozy dinner vibe, warm crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls on the side never disappoint.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover pork chops tightly in aluminum foil or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, which makes this recipe perfect for weekday dinners or meal prep.

Freezing

If you want to freeze, wrap each cooked pork chop individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen pork chops stay good for about 1 to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your pork chops gently in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10–12 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps maintain the crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving if you can—it tends to make the crust soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?

Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will work, but increase the baking time to about 25-30 minutes and ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F for safe consumption.

What type of breadcrumbs should I use for the breading?

Plain breadcrumbs are best for this recipe, but you can also use panko for an extra crispy texture. Just keep the seasoning proportions the same.

How do I know when the pork chops are done?

The most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F. The crust should be golden and crispy as a visual cue.

Can I prepare these pork chops without mayonnaise?

Mayonnaise helps keep the coating moist and adheres the breading well, but you can substitute with Greek yogurt or Dijon mustard if you prefer, keeping in mind slight flavor differences.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about biting into these Crispy Baked Pork Chops with Lemon Recipe—the perfect marriage of crunchy, cheesy coating with juicy, tender pork and a splash of zesty lemon to brighten every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is a wonderful go-to that combines ease with impressive flavor. I hope you find as much joy making and eating these as I do. Bon appétit!