Pan Roasted Pork Chops are juicy and packed with flavor. A simple sear gives them a golden crust, while they stay tender inside. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Honestly, there’s something about the sizzle of pork chops in the pan that makes you feel like a chef! I love serving these with mashed potatoes for a classic combo!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are my favorite for this recipe. The bone adds flavor and moisture. If you only have boneless, that works too, but they might cook faster, so keep an eye on them!
Olive Oil: This adds richness but can be swapped with any neutral oil, like vegetable or canola oil. If you want a more robust flavor, consider using avocado oil.
Fresh Thyme: Thyme gives a lovely aroma and flavor. If you can’t find fresh, dried thyme can be used—just about one-third the amount. I prefer fresh because it adds a vibrant touch.
Butter: Though optional, butter adds a rich finish. If you’re avoiding dairy, you can skip it or use a dairy-free butter alternative.
How Can I Achieve a Perfect Sear on My Pork Chops?
Searing is all about technique. Here’s how to get that perfect golden crust:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough. Heat it over medium-high until the oil shimmers—this prevents sticking and ensures a good sear.
- Pat your pork chops dry well with paper towels before seasoning. Dry meat will sear better and brown more effectively.
- Once you place the pork chops in the skillet, resist the urge to move them around. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes. This helps build that delicious crust!
Remember, patience is key to a great sear! Enjoy your cooking experience!
Pan Roasted Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 bone-in pork chops, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 3-4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and another 15 minutes for cooking, including oven time. In total, you’ll need around 25 minutes to have perfectly roasted pork chops ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it’s hot and ready for the pork chops when they finish searing.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to help them sear better. Generously season both sides with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and smoked paprika. This adds flavor and a nice color to your chops.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet. Let them sear without moving for about 3-4 minutes, which will create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
4. Add Flavor:
Once a crust has formed, flip the pork chops over. Add the smashed garlic cloves and fresh thyme sprigs to the skillet. These will give the meat a wonderful aroma and flavor!
5. Optional Basting:
If you like, toss in a tablespoon of unsalted butter at this point. As it melts, use a spoon to baste the chops, which adds richness and keeps them juicy.
6. Roast in Oven:
Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the pork chops for about 6-8 minutes, until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Rest the Pork Chops:
Remove the skillet from the oven and tent the chops loosely with foil. Allow them to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a juicier bite!
8. Serve:
Serve the pork chops warm, spooning some of the tasty pan juices over the top along with the garlic and thyme. Enjoy your beautifully cooked meal!
This method creates pork chops with a crisp, flavorful crust and tender, juicy meat inside, enhanced by the aroma of fresh thyme and garlic. Enjoy!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! While bone-in chops are juicier and more flavorful, boneless chops will work too. Just be sure to reduce the cooking time slightly, as they may cook faster.
How Do I Know When the Pork Chops Are Done?
The best way to check doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into one and check that the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Before Cooking?
Absolutely! Marinating your pork chops for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) can add incredible flavor. Consider a marinade with ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and a splash of vinegar for tenderness and taste.
What is the Best Way to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave them gently or warm them in a skillet on low heat to maintain moisture.