Pork Chops are a classic and versatile protein that can be prepared in various ways, from pan-searing to baking or grilling. Here’s a simple and flavorful recipe for pan-seared Pork Chops, with a savory herb and garlic seasoning that makes them juicy and delicious:
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Pork Chops:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- Season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, dried thyme, rosemary, and paprika (if using).
-
Heat the Skillet:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the pan.
-
Sear the Pork Chops:
- Sear the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 145°F or 63°C).
- If the pork chops are thick, you can lower the heat to medium after searing both sides to ensure they cook through without burning on the outside. You can also cover the skillet to help them cook faster.
-
Add Butter and Garlic:
- Once the pork chops are nearly done, add butter and minced garlic to the skillet.
- Let the butter melt and cook the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and slightly golden. Spoon the melted butter and garlic over the pork chops to baste them for extra flavor.
-
Rest the Pork Chops:
- Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat stays moist.
-
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve your flavorful pork chops with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Tips:
- For Extra Flavor: You can marinate the pork chops for an hour or overnight in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs to infuse even more flavor.
- Oven Option: If you’d prefer to bake the pork chops, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). After searing them in the skillet, transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes (depending on thickness) until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Sauce: To make a simple pan sauce, after removing the pork chops, add a splash of white wine, chicken broth, or heavy cream to the skillet and simmer for 3-5 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Pour over the pork chops before serving.
These Pan-Seared Pork Chops are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. Perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner! Enjoy!