Pan Seared Pork Chops

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Juicy and flavorful pan-seared pork chops are a dinner game-changer! Made with simple ingredients like garlic and thyme, this recipe is perfect for any night of the week. The golden crust locks in the juices, ensuring a delightful bite every time. Save this easy recipe for your next family meal or special occasion!

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Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pork Chops: Bone-in, 1-inch thick pork chops are ideal for this recipe as they retain moisture and flavor. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work too, but they may cook faster.

Olive Oil: While olive oil gives a nice flavor, you can substitute it with vegetable oil or avocado oil if you prefer a higher smoke point or a more neutral taste.

Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness. However, you can use ghee or margarine if you want a dairy-free option.

Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a strong flavor, but garlic powder can be a good substitute—just reduce the amount since it’s more concentrated.

Rosemary: Fresh rosemary is aromatic, but if you only have dried rosemary, that works too! Use less since dried herbs are more potent (1 teaspoon instead of a tablespoon).

How Do I Achieve the Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?

Getting that beautiful golden brown crust is key for flavor and texture. Start by letting your pork chops come to room temperature for even cooking. This helps them cook through without drying out.

  • Heat your skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot and shimmering.
  • Season generously with salt and pepper before placing chops in the skillet. Avoid moving them to ensure a good sear.
  • Cook for 4-5 minutes, until a crust forms, then flip and add butter, garlic, and rosemary.
  • Spoon the melted butter over the chops as they finish cooking to keep them moist and flavorful.

How to Make Pan Seared Pork Chops

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pork Chops:

  • 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 cup cooked rice (for serving)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe will take about 45 minutes in total. You’ll need 30 minutes for the pork chops to rest at room temperature, 10 minutes for cooking, and an additional 5 minutes for resting the chops before serving. It’s a simple and delicious meal to prepare!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork Chops:

Start by taking the pork chops out of the refrigerator and letting them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps them cook evenly, so they come out juicy and tender. While you wait, you can gather your other ingredients.

2. Season the Pork Chops:

Once the pork chops have rested, generously season both sides with salt and black pepper. This will add great flavor to the meat.

3. Heat the Skillet:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil is shimmering, which means it’s ready for the pork chops.

4. Sear the Pork Chops:

Add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet. Let them cook without moving them for about 4-5 minutes, until they develop a nice golden brown crust on one side.

5. Flip and Add Flavor:

Carefully flip the pork chops using tongs. Add the butter, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary to the skillet. Continue cooking while spooning the melted butter over the chops for another 4-5 minutes. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe eating!

6. Let the Chops Rest:

Once done cooking, remove the pork chops from the skillet. Allow them to rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This resting time is essential as it helps retain the juices.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve your delicious pork chops over a bed of cooked rice. Don’t forget to drizzle some of the pan juices on top for extra flavor! Finally, sprinkle some fresh parsley over it all for a lovely garnish. Enjoy your meal!

Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?

Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just reduce the cooking time slightly, about 3-4 minutes per side, since they are generally thinner than bone-in chops. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they’re cooked through.

What If I Don’t Have Fresh Rosemary?

No worries! You can use dried rosemary as a substitute. Just use 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary in place of 1 tablespoon of fresh. If you prefer, you can also experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile!

How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?

Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, covering them to prevent drying out.

Can I Add Vegetables to the Skillet?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or bell peppers to the skillet once you flip the pork chops. Just keep an eye on cooking times and adjust as needed so everything cooks evenly.

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