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Air Fryer Crispy Pork Schnitzel Cutlets

Close-up of Air Fryer Crispy Pork Schnitzel Cutlets, showing the juicy white meat and golden, crunchy breading.

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Make perfectly crispy, golden-brown pork schnitzel cutlets in your air fryer. This recipe yields tender meat with a crunchy coating without deep frying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 thin pork loin cutlets (about 4 oz each)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra crisp)
  • Cooking spray (oil-based, like avocado or olive oil)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pork: Place each cutlet between two sheets of plastic wrap. Pound them evenly to about 1/4 inch thickness using a meat mallet. Pat the pounded cutlets dry with paper towels.
  2. Set up the breading station: Prepare three shallow dishes. Place flour seasoned with salt and pepper in the first dish. Place beaten eggs in the second dish. Mix Panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese (if using) in the third dish.
  3. Dredge the cutlets: Coat each pork cutlet first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip it completely in the egg wash. Finally, press the cutlet firmly into the Panko mixture to ensure full coverage.
  4. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for 5 minutes.
  5. Arrange the cutlets: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded cutlets in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they do not overlap. You may need to cook in batches.
  6. Spray the tops: Generously spray the top surface of each cutlet with cooking spray. This is key for browning and crispiness.
  7. Air fry: Cook for 8 to 10 minutes. At the halfway point (around 4-5 minutes), carefully flip the cutlets and spray the second side with cooking spray. Continue cooking until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 145°F or 63°C).
  8. Serve immediately with lemon wedges or traditional sides.

Notes

  • For the crispiest result, use Panko breadcrumbs instead of standard breadcrumbs.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cooking in batches promotes better air circulation and crisping.
  • If you prefer a traditional flavor, add a pinch of paprika to the flour mixture.

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