How to Make Perfect Southern Fried Pork Chops with Homemade Gravy

If you’re looking for a meal that delivers on crunch, flavor, and rich gravy-soaked goodness, this Southern Country Fried Pork Chops with Gravy recipe is the answer. These chops are seasoned, breaded, and pan-fried until golden and crispy, then smothered in a velvety homemade gravy that soaks into every bite.

It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug from Grandma—pure comfort food, perfect for Sunday supper, family dinners, or when you’re craving something soul-satisfying.


❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

This dish brings together all the elements of a Southern classic:

  • Juicy, flavorful pork chops
  • A seasoned, crispy crust that holds its crunch
  • A silky, savory gravy made right in the same skillet
  • It’s nostalgic, hearty, and easy to pull off on a weeknight

And if you’re cooking for a crowd or just need leftovers that reheat beautifully, this recipe’s got your back.


🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pork Chops:

  • 4 bone-in pork chops
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the Gravy:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

🔁 Ingredient Swaps & Notes

  • No buttermilk? Use regular milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar (1 tbsp per cup) to create a quick substitute.
  • Thin pork chops? Reduce frying time to avoid overcooking.
  • Prefer boneless? Works great too—just watch your cook time.
  • Want extra heat? Add cayenne or hot sauce to the buttermilk dip.
  • Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour blends for dredging and the roux.

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Season the Pork
    Pat pork chops dry. Mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub seasoning evenly over both sides of the chops.
  2. Dredge and Dip
    Set up two shallow bowls—one with the flour, one with buttermilk. Dredge each chop in flour, dip in buttermilk, then coat again in flour for a crispy crust.
  3. Fry Until Golden
    Heat about ½ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry pork chops 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temp reaches 145°F. Remove and set on a paper towel-lined plate.
  4. Make the Gravy
    Drain excess oil, leaving 2–3 tablespoons in the pan. Add butter, then whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to make a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes until light golden.
  5. Add the Broth
    Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth and thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve
    Spoon hot gravy over the crispy pork chops and serve immediately with classic sides.

💡 Tips for Success

  • Don’t skip the double dredge—it’s what gives you that epic crunch.
  • Use a cast iron skillet if possible for even heat and perfect sear.
  • Let chops rest after frying to keep juices locked in.
  • Make extra gravy—you’ll want to pour it over mashed potatoes or biscuits too!

🍽️ Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Complete your Southern supper with these comforting sides and desserts:


❄️ Storage & Leftovers

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes for best texture.
  • Gravy reheats well on the stovetop—add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
  • Freeze fried pork chops wrapped in foil and stored in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen.

🍴 More Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re a fan of Southern comfort food, you’ll love:


🔔 Final Thoughts

This Southern Country Fried Pork Chops with Gravy recipe delivers everything you want in a soul food staple: flavor, crunch, tenderness, and a rich gravy that ties it all together. Whether it’s your first time making fried pork chops or you’re a seasoned Southern cook, this one’s going to hit the spot.

Tried it? Let us know in the comments or tag @chefmaniac on Instagram with your plate. And don’t forget to follow for more classic comfort food recipes with a twist!