These pan-seared pork chops are juicy and full of flavor. They get a nice golden crust on the outside while staying tender inside—yum!
Making these chops is super easy! I like to season them simply and let the skillet do its magic. Pair them with veggies for a tasty dinner that everyone will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops work great for flavor and tenderness. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops, but adjust the cooking time as they usually cook faster.
Oil: I recommend olive oil for its taste, but vegetable oil is a fine substitute too. Just avoid oils with low smoke points.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re lactose-free, try using a plant-based butter or avocado oil to achieve similar richness.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely herbal note. If you don’t have it, other herbs like rosemary or oregano can also work well. Dried thyme can be used too, but use less as it’s more concentrated.
How Do You Achieve a Perfectly Searing on Pork Chops?
Searing the pork chops creates that delicious crust and locks in juices, making them tender and flavorful. Follow these tips for success:
- Start with a hot pan: Heat your skillet until it’s shimmering before adding oil. This helps in getting a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd: If cooking more than two chops, consider doing it in batches. Too much meat at once can drop the pan temperature, affecting the sear.
- Let them rest: After cooking, letting the chops rest for 5 minutes before cutting helps retain the juices so they’re moist when you take a bite.
How to Make Pan-Seared Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish before you can enjoy your delicious pork chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chops:
Start by taking the pork chops out of the refrigerator. Let them sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This step is important because it helps the pork chops cook more evenly.
2. Seasoning:
Next, use paper towels to pat the pork chops dry. This will help them get a nice crust when searing. Generously season both sides with salt and black pepper.
3. Heat the Pan:
Take a large cast iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan and pour in the olive oil. Heat it over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering, which means it’s hot enough for the pork chops.
4. Searing the Pork Chops:
Carefully place the pork chops in the hot pan. Leave them alone to sear for about 4-5 minutes. Don’t move them around. You want the underside to develop a beautiful golden-brown crust.
5. Add Flavor:
Now flip the pork chops over. Add the butter, minced garlic, and thyme to the pan. This will create an amazing aroma and flavor!
6. Basting:
Tip the pan slightly and use a spoon to scoop up the melted butter. Drizzle the butter over the pork chops repeatedly as they cook for another 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on the internal temperature; it should reach 145°F (63°C).
7. Resting Time:
Once done, remove the pork chops from the pan and place them on a plate. Spoon the delicious buttery pan juices and garlic from the skillet over the top. Let the chops rest for about 5 minutes. This step is key for keeping them juicy!
8. Finishing Touch:
Finally, garnish your pork chops with freshly chopped parsley before serving. This adds a nice pop of color and freshness!
Now you have perfectly cooked, juicy pork chops ready to serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe, but reduce the cooking time by a few minutes since they cook faster. Always check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Thyme?
If you don’t have fresh thyme, you can substitute it with dried thyme (use about 1 teaspoon). Other herbs like rosemary or oregano also work well, giving a different but tasty flavor profile.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe with Other Cuts of Meat?
Yes! This method can be used for other cuts such as chicken breasts or steak. Just adjust the cooking times based on the thickness of the meat and ensure it reaches the appropriate internal temperatures for safe consumption.