Pork Chops Italiano brings a taste of Italy to your dinner table! Juicy pork chops are cooked with a flavorful mix of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. It’s a delicious combo that never fails to please.
I love serving these chops with a side of pasta. The sauce is perfect for drizzling over everything! Plus, they’re quick to make, so I can enjoy more time with family instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops work best for this dish as they cook evenly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with skinless chicken breasts or even turkey cutlets.
Mushrooms: Sliced button mushrooms add a lovely texture and flavor. If you prefer, you can swap them for cremini or shiitake mushrooms for an earthier taste.
Bell Peppers: I like using a mix of red and yellow peppers for color and sweetness. If you only have green peppers, they can work. They add a sharper flavor, which some might prefer.
Tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes make this dish easy, but fresh ripe tomatoes diced also add a great touch. If you’re trying to reduce acidity, consider using tomato sauce instead.
Chicken Broth/Wine: Either works to give depth to the sauce. For a non-alcoholic option, low-sodium chicken broth or even vegetable broth can be a great substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Tender and Juicy?
The key to perfectly cooked pork chops is to avoid overcooking them. Here’s how you can keep them tender:
- Start with room-temperature pork chops. Let them sit out of the fridge for about 20-30 minutes before cooking.
- Brown them on high heat to lock in the juices. Aim for a golden crust without cooking them all the way through.
- Once you simmer them in the sauce, cover the skillet to trap moisture, which helps keep the pork chops juicy.
- Use a meat thermometer if you have one. Pork is done at 145°F (63°C). Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.
How to Make Pork Chops Italiano
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients, and the cooking will take about 20 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by generously seasoning the pork chops with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the meat while it cooks.
2. Brown the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned pork chops. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely golden brown. Once browned, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms, diced red and yellow bell peppers, and chopped onions. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are softened and starting to caramelize. The flavors will meld beautifully together!
4. Add the Garlic and Herbs:
Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir and cook for about 1 minute, making sure the garlic becomes fragrant but doesn’t burn.
5. Mix in the Tomatoes and Broth:
Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth (or white wine). Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet—this is full of flavor!
6. Simmer with the Pork Chops:
Bring the sauce to a simmer. Return the browned pork chops to the skillet, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let them simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and tender, and the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the fresh parsley over the dish and add a bit more for garnish if you’d like. This adds a pop of color and freshness! Serve the pork chops hot, ideally with a side of pasta, polenta, or some crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce.
Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Pork Chops Italiano!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used! Just be aware that they may require a bit more cooking time due to their thickness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the recommended internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I Substitute the Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on what you have on hand. Zucchini, spinach, or even broccoli would also work well in this dish. Just adjust the cooking times as necessary to ensure everything cooks evenly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, you can add a splash of water or broth while reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! This recipe is already naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour or gluten-based ingredients. Just make sure that your chicken broth or any additional products you use are certified gluten-free.