These pan roasted pork chops are juicy and packed with flavor! With a nice sear on the outside and tenderness inside, you’ll enjoy every bite. Plus, they’re super easy to make!
Cooking them in a pan means less cleanup too. I love serving these with some roasted veggies on the side. It makes dinner feel fancy but it’s really just a simple, yummy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are ideal for their extra flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for leaner options, try boneless pork chops or pork loin. Just remember, cooking times may vary slightly!
Fresh Thyme: While thyme adds great aroma, rosemary works well too if that’s what you have. Dried thyme in smaller amounts can substitute fresh but won’t pack the same punch.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, use olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. Peanut oil can also work for a different flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves give a wonderful taste, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. Use about half a teaspoon per clove for the equivalent flavor.
How Do You Get a Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
Getting a nice sear on your pork chops is crucial for that lovely crust. Here are some tips to achieve this:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough! Let it preheat for several minutes.
- Pat your pork chops dry with paper towels to remove moisture—this helps them brown nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
- Leave them alone while cooking on the first side. Resist the urge to flip too soon!
These steps will ensure you have beautifully browned pork chops that are juicy and flavorful! Enjoy your cooking!
Pan Roasted Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 bone-in pork chops, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3-4 sprigs fresh thyme (or rosemary as alternative)
- 3-4 garlic cloves, peeled and lightly crushed
- Optional: 6-8 asparagus spears or other vegetable sides, trimmed and washed
- 1/2 onion, sliced into wedges (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prepping and about 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll spend a little time seasoning and searing the pork chops, followed by oven roasting. Total time is approximately 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by taking the pork chops out of the fridge 20-30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly. Use paper towels to pat them dry—this will help get a nice, crispy crust when cooking!
2. Season the Chops:
Generously sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides of the pork chops. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it enhances the flavor greatly!
3. Preheat Your Skillet:
Place your oven-safe heavy skillet (like cast iron) on the stove over medium-high heat. Let it preheat for about 3-4 minutes until it’s very hot. You want it sizzling when you add the chops!
4. Sear the Pork Chops:
Pour in the olive oil and swirl it around in the pan. Carefully place the pork chops in the hot skillet, making sure not to crowd them. Let them sear without moving for about 3-4 minutes until they form a beautiful golden-brown crust.
5. Add Flavor:
Flip the pork chops over and add the butter, crushed garlic cloves, and fresh thyme (or rosemary) into the skillet. As they cook, use a spoon to drizzle the melted butter and herbs over the chops for extra flavor. Cook for another 3-4 minutes.
6. Prepare for Roasting:
If you’re using fresh vegetables like asparagus and onion, place them next to the pork chops in the pan. They’ll roast beautifully alongside!
7. Roast in the Oven:
Carefully transfer the skillet to a preheated oven set at 400°F (200°C). Roast for another 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
8. Let It Rest:
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and carefully transfer the pork chops to a plate. Tent with foil and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy!
9. Serve:
Serve the pork chops hot alongside the roasted vegetables. Don’t forget to spoon some of those tasty pan juices over the top for an extra flavor boost!
Enjoy your perfectly pan roasted pork chops with that crispy, flavorful crust and juicy interior! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, but keep in mind they’ll cook faster than bone-in chops. Start checking their internal temperature a couple of minutes earlier, around 5-6 minutes into roasting.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
If you don’t have fresh thyme or rosemary, dried herbs can work too! Use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs instead of fresh, but add them to the pan a bit earlier to allow their flavors to release fully.
How Can I Tell When Pork Chops Are Done Cooking?
The best way to check if pork chops are done is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety and optimal juiciness. Let the chops rest for a few minutes after cooking; they’ll continue to cook slightly from residual heat!
Can I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or skillet to retain moisture, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary.
