Skillet pork chops are a quick and tasty dish that packs a punch! Juicy chops are seared to perfection in a hot skillet, creating a lovely crust while staying tender inside. Yum!
Cooking these is super easy! I love to whip them up on busy nights, served with some veggies or mashed potatoes. You just can’t go wrong with a good pork chop! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops give the best flavor and juiciness, but you can use boneless chops if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times since boneless chops may cook faster.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is great for searing, but you can use vegetable or canola oil if that’s what you have on hand. Both oils can handle high heat well!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds amazing flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder instead—just sprinkle it when adding the thyme.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and burst with flavor, but feel free to replace them with diced regular tomatoes or even a mix of bell peppers for a different twist.
Chicken Broth or White Wine: If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, use more chicken broth or vegetable broth. You could also use apple juice for a touch of sweetness!
How Can I Get Perfectly Searing on Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops to get that beautiful crust takes a little patience, but it’s worth it! Here’s how to do it right:
- First, make sure your pork chops are at room temperature before cooking—this helps them cook evenly.
- Pat them dry! Moisture can hinder browning, so towel off any excess moisture.
- Heat the skillet well—medium-high heat is key. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke.
- Leave the chop undisturbed for the first few minutes. Resist the urge to peek or flip it! This helps develop a nice crust.
Once you flip, check for golden-brown color. If it’s not there, just give it another minute! Perfectly seared pork chops are all about patience and the right heat.
Skillet Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine (optional, for deglazing and making sauce)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy dish will take you about 30 minutes in total—10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. It’s a quick yet sophisticated meal perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better. Season both sides with salt and black pepper. Don’t be shy—season generously! Then sprinkle the fresh thyme leaves evenly over the chops.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Grab a large cast iron or heavy skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil is shimmering—this means it’s ready for the chops.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Now, place the pork chops in the skillet. Let them sear undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a nice golden-brown crust and an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once done, transfer the chops to a plate and loosely cover with foil to keep warm.
4. Cook the Garlic and Tomatoes:
In the same skillet, toss in the peeled garlic cloves and cherry tomatoes. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and the garlic becomes aromatic. Yum!
5. Deglaze the Pan:
Add the rosemary sprigs and pour in the chicken broth or white wine to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any tasty browned bits from the bottom. Let this simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
6. Make the Sauce:
Turn off the heat and mix in the butter until it’s melted, creating a luscious pan sauce. This will bring all those delicious flavors together!
7. Reheat the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the sauce, garlic, and tomatoes over them. This will warm the chops through and infuse them with flavor.
8. Serve:
Garnish with some extra fresh thyme or rosemary, if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy your juicy, herb-infused skillet pork chops! They pair wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed veggies.
Bon appétit! Enjoy every bite! 😊
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as boneless chops typically cook faster—aim for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Juicy?
To keep your pork chops juicy, avoid overcooking them! Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 145°F (63°C). Letting the chops rest for a few minutes after cooking also helps retain moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the pork chops and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent drying out.
What Should I Serve with Skillet Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. A light salad or steamed greens also complements the dish perfectly!