Pork Chops Parmesan(Low-Fat)
Juicy pork chops coated with a flavorful cornmeal and Parmesan crust, then skillet-fried with aromatic garlic, fennel, and green onions for a satisfying low-fat meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cornmeal, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, salt, and basil in a shallow dish.
- Trim the pork chops of all visible fat, pat them dry, and dredge in the cornmeal mixture to coat evenly.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil.
- When the oil is hot, place the coated pork chops in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low.
- Fry the chops for 10 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- Add the chopped green onions, minced garlic, and crushed fennel seed to the skillet.
- Continue frying for another 10 minutes, turning as necessary to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier coating, try adding a tablespoon of breadcrumbs to the cornmeal mixture. If you don't have fresh basil, dried basil works well too. This recipe can easily be adapted to use chicken breast instead of pork chops if you prefer a leaner protein. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chops to achieve a nice sear.
Serving Suggestions
These Pork Chops Parmesan pair beautifully with a side of Sunday Spinach Salad for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving them alongside roasted vegetables or a light pasta dish for a complete meal. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can add an extra flavor dimension if desired.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water to keep them moist, covering with a lid to steam them slightly. This helps prevent them from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Chops Parmesan(Low-Fat) contains roughly 364 calories, with 13g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), iron (37% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used instead of bone-in chops. Just adjust the cooking time as boneless chops usually cook faster, about 5 to 7 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, nutritional yeast can be a great low-fat alternative for a cheesy flavor. Alternatively, Pecorino Romano can be used for a sharper taste, though it is typically saltier, so adjust the salt in the recipe accordingly.
How do I know when the pork chops are cooked through?
The best way to ensure your pork chops are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Alternatively, the meat should be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the center.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).