Pan Roasted Pork Chops are juicy, golden delights that are quick and easy to make! Simply season the chops, sear them in a hot pan, and finish in the oven for a perfect meal.
Who doesn’t love a one-pan wonder? I always serve mine with a side of veggies and a big smile because they truly brighten up dinner time. Trust me, leftovers are rare! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I love using bone-in pork chops, as the bone adds flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, boneless chops work too, but they cook faster, so keep an eye on them!
Olive Oil: This is perfect for searing. If you want a different flavor, avocado oil or canola oil can be used instead. Just choose oils with a high smoke point.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor! If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can work, but I prefer the fresh stuff for its aroma and taste.
Fresh Herbs: Thyme and rosemary add a lovely aroma. If you don’t have fresh, use dried herbs, but cut back to about a third since dried herbs are more potent. Basil or oregano can also work in a pinch.
How Do I Get the Perfect Searing on My Pork Chops?
Searing is key to locking in flavor and creating that beautiful crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil.
- Pat your pork chops dry! This helps them brown better.
- Don’t move the chops around too much while they’re searing. Let them sit until they’re golden brown.
After flipping, keep that butter and herb mixture basting over the chops. It adds incredible flavor and helps them stay moist!
How to Make Pan Roasted Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 2 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
- 3-4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1-2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you will spend roughly 30-35 minutes from start to finish, which includes resting time to let the juices settle into the pork. You’ll have succulent, flavorful pork chops ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparation:
Start by removing the pork chops from the refrigerator. Allow them to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, which helps with even cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear later.
2. Seasoning:
Generously season both sides of the pork chops with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This enhances their flavor beautifully.
3. Preheating the Skillet:
Next, preheat your cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the olive oil and let it heat until it shimmers on the surface.
4. Searing the Chops:
Carefully place the seasoned pork chops into the skillet. Allow them to sear without moving them for about 3-4 minutes, until a golden-brown crust develops.
5. Adding Aromatics:
Once seared, flip the pork chops to the other side. Add the crushed garlic cloves, sprigs of thyme, fresh rosemary, and butter to the skillet. The aroma will be heavenly!
6. Basting:
Tilt the pan slightly and spoon the melted butter and herb oil over the pork chops repeatedly (this is called basting) for about 3 minutes. This step infuses wonderful flavor into the meat.
7. Final Cooking in the Oven:
Now, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) to finish roasting the chops for about 5-7 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Resting:
Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Transfer the chops to a warm plate and tent them loosely with aluminum foil. Let them rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
9. Serving:
Finally, serve your delicious pork chops hot, spooning some of the garlic-herb butter from the pan over them for an extra flavor boost. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
This method guarantees mouthwatering, juicy pork chops with a perfectly crisp crust and delightful herbal notes. Enjoy! 😊
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, but keep in mind they will cook faster than bone-in chops. Adjust the cooking time and check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Herbs?
If you don’t have fresh thyme or rosemary, you can use dried herbs instead. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. For a different flavor profile, consider using Italian seasoning as an alternative.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist, or you can microwave them in short intervals.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
While the pork chops are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the herb mixture and season the chops ahead of time up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook!