These pan-roasted pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! With a beautiful golden crust and tender meat, they’re perfect for a hearty meal.
Honestly, they’re so easy to make, I feel like a chef every time! Just season, sear, and roast—dinner is ready in no time. Don’t forget to pair them with your favorite veggies!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and juiciness. If you can’t find these, boneless chops work too but may cook faster.
Salt and Pepper: Don’t skip seasoning! It enhances the pork’s flavor. For a twist, try using smoked salt or different pepper varieties like pink peppercorns.
Olive Oil: This is perfect for searing, but can be replaced with vegetable or canola oil. I enjoy avocado oil for a mild flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder works but use less, about 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely aroma. Dried thyme is fine too; just use about a third of the amount since it’s more concentrated.
Butter: It adds richness. You could use ghee or olive oil instead for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get a Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
The secret to a perfect sear is high heat and dry meat. Start by patting the pork chops dry; moisture prevents browning. Preheat your skillet until it’s hot enough to sizzle when the meat touches it.
- Make sure to leave space between the chops in the pan; overcrowding lowers the temperature.
- Don’t flip or move the chops while searing—let them sit for a few minutes. This creates a nice crust.
- Basting with melted butter helps keep the pork moist and adds extra flavor as the chops cook.
Following these tips, you’re on your way to delicious, restaurant-quality pork chops!
How to Make Pan Roasted Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes of prep and 15-20 minutes of cooking time. Totaling about 30 minutes, including resting time, you’ll have juicy, flavorful pork chops ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Chops:
Start by taking the pork chops out of the refrigerator. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, helping them sear better. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.
2. Preheat the Oven:
While the chops are resting, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a nice finish to cooking the chops later.
3. Season the Pork Chops:
Generously sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides of each pork chop. This will give them great flavor while they cook.
4. Sear the Chops:
In a heavy oven-safe skillet (a cast iron pan is great for this), heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmer but isn’t smoking. Carefully add the pork chops to the pan, leaving space in between them. Sear without moving them for about 3-4 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms.
5. Flip and Add Aromatics:
Gently flip the pork chops and add the smashed garlic cloves and thyme sprigs to the pan, followed by the tablespoon of butter. As the butter melts, tilt the pan slightly and spoon the melted butter over the pork chops to baste them for where that delicious flavor comes from. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Finish in the Oven:
Carefully transfer the entire skillet to your preheated oven. Roast for 5-7 minutes or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and place the pork chops on a plate. Tent them loosely with foil and let them rest for 5 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute for juicy chops.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
To finish, drizzle some of the pan juices over the pork chops and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious, pan-roasted pork chops!
This method yields wonderfully juicy and flavorful pork chops with a crispy sear and aromatic herb notes. Perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just keep in mind that they may cook faster, so start checking the internal temperature a couple of minutes earlier to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Thyme?
If you don’t have fresh thyme, you can use dried thyme as a substitute. Use about one-third of the amount (approximately 1 teaspoon) since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or on the stovetop to help maintain their juiciness.
Can I Add Other Flavors or Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or sage, or add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the pan at the end for an extra layer of flavor. Just keep an eye on the seasoning balance!
