These crispy pork cutlets in air fryer have tender, juicy pork and a golden-brown, crunchy coating made with minimal oil. They are ready in just 24 minutes.
The recipe costs $5.97 to make, or about $2.99 per serving.
What this costs
These are estimated costs based on typical U.S. supermarket store-brand prices in September 2026. Prices vary by store and region, so treat them as a guide.
| Ingredient | Amount used | Pack size | Pack price | Recipe cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pork cutlets | 14 oz | 1 lb | $4.99 | $4.37 |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1 cup | 8 oz bag | $2.49 | $0.62 |
| Large eggs | 2 | 1 dozen | $2.99 | $0.50 |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | 16.9 fl oz bottle | $5.99 | $0.35 |
| Old Bay seasoning | 1 teaspoon | 2.5 oz can | $3.99 | $0.05 |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | 26 oz container | $1.50 | $0.02 |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | 4 oz container | $3.50 | $0.03 |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | 1.75 oz container | $2.50 | $0.03 |
| Total recipe cost | $5.97 | |||
| Cost per serving | 2 servings | $2.99 |
Ingredient cost = pack price ÷ pack quantity × amount used. Cost per serving = total recipe cost ÷ servings.
Ingredient Notes and Cheaper Swaps
Pork Cutlets
Use boneless pork cutlets about 1/2-inch thick so they cook quickly. If you can only find thicker pork loin chops, slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets; this often works out cheaper than buying pre-cut thin slices. Look for sales on larger pork loins, which can be cut into many meals. If ground pork is what you have on hand, make pork patties instead of cutlets.
Panko Breadcrumbs
Panko is lighter and flakier than regular breadcrumbs and absorbs less oil. Regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture won’t be quite as airy. For an even cheaper option, make breadcrumbs from stale bread by toasting it and processing it until finely crumbled. For an air fryer main that skips the breadcrumb coating, try air fryer smoked sausage on another night.
Eggs
The eggs help the panko stick to the pork. If you’re out of eggs, a small amount of milk or water mixed with a tablespoon of flour can act as a substitute, though the coating might not adhere quite as well.
Seasoning
Old Bay adds a savory, slightly spicy flavor and the cayenne a little heat; adjust the amounts to taste. Without Old Bay, a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder and a touch of dried thyme gives a similar savory profile.
How to Make Air Fryer Pork Cutlets Step by Step
Make sure the cutlets are about 1/2-inch thick; if they’re thicker, carefully slice them through the middle. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels so the coating crisps.
Set up two shallow dishes: one for the beaten eggs and one for the panko mixed with the seasonings. Dip each cutlet in the egg, letting the excess drip off, then press it firmly into the panko until it’s completely coated on all sides.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Line the basket with parchment paper and lightly brush or spray it with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the cutlets in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for about 7 minutes, until the breading is golden and the pork is starting to firm up. Flip carefully and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and 145°F inside on a meat thermometer. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
For full ingredient quantities and detailed instructions, please refer to the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook in batches if necessary so air can circulate around each cutlet.
- Use Parchment Paper: It makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking. Use air fryer safe parchment that doesn’t block the air flow too much.
- Rest the Meat: Let the cutlets rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking so the juices redistribute.
Storing, Freezing, and Reheating
Storage: Cool leftovers completely, then keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can use Basics Glass Food Storage containers for easy visibility and reheating.
Freezing: Frozen breaded cutlets can turn slightly soggy when reheated. To freeze, cool completely, flash freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for an hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-8 minutes, until heated through and crispy again, or in a conventional oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Serving Ideas and Variations
- Classic Comfort: Serve with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans. If you like that combination of pork and potatoes, put mashed potatoes with sausage in your dinner rotation too.
- Sandwich Style: Slice the cooked cutlets and serve them on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of mayonnaise or your favorite sauce.
- Pork Schnitzel Inspired: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the hot cutlets, as with a classic schnitzel.
- Taco Tuesday Twist: Cut the crispy pork into strips and use them in soft tortillas with shredded cabbage, a drizzle of lime crema, and a sprinkle of cilantro.
For more budget-friendly meal ideas, visit Thrifty Skillet Recipes.
Air Fryer Pork Cutlets
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- Pat the pork cutlets very dry with paper towels; this is crucial for a crispy coating.
- In a shallow dish, whisk the eggs. In another shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs with Old Bay seasoning, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Dip each pork cutlet first into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off, then press it firmly into the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, ensuring it’s fully coated on all sides.
- Line the air fryer basket with a piece of air fryer-safe parchment paper and lightly brush or spray it with 1-2 teaspoons of olive oil.
- Place one or two breaded pork cutlets in the prepared air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Air fry for 7 minutes, then carefully flip the cutlets and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the cooked pork cutlets from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
- Repeat with any remaining cutlets, adding a little more oil to the parchment paper if needed.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ensure my pork cutlets are crispy in the air fryer?
To get crispy pork cutlets, pat the meat very dry before breading and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cooking in a single layer allows air to circulate around each cutlet, promoting even browning and crispiness.
What if I don’t have thin pork cutlets?
If your pork chops are too thick, you can carefully slice them horizontally through the middle to create thinner cutlets, about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and quickly in the air fryer.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs if you don’t have panko. However, panko breadcrumbs are flakier and absorb less oil, which typically results in a crispier, lighter coating.
How do I know when the pork cutlets are fully cooked?
Pork cutlets are safely cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the cutlet to check for doneness.
Can I make these pork cutlets gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, you would need to use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. All other ingredients are typically gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure.
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