These skillet pork chops are juicy and full of flavor, and the pan gravy adds a creamy touch that you can’t resist. It’s a simple, one-pan dish that makes cooking a breeze!
Honestly, nothing beats the smell of cooking pork chops with that rich gravy simmering in the pan. I love serving it with mashed potatoes—you get the best of both worlds without much mess. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add extra flavor and moisture. However, boneless is just as good and they cook faster. Choose the cut you prefer!
Seasoning: Salt and pepper are essential. Garlic powder is great for extra flavor. Feel free to use fresh garlic for a stronger taste—just sauté it briefly to avoid burning.
Oil and Butter: Olive oil provides a nice flavor, but vegetable oil works too. The butter adds richness, so don’t skip it!
Thyme: Dried thyme is convenient, but fresh thyme brings a brighter flavor. You can swap it with rosemary or oregano if you prefer something different.
Gravy Ingredients: Chicken broth is perfect for a mild flavor. Low-sodium versions let you control the saltiness. For creaminess, heavy cream works best, but half-and-half or milk also does the job.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
The secret to juicy pork chops is to cook them at the right temperature and not overcook. Here’s how to do it:
- Pat the chops dry before seasoning. This helps them brown better.
- Heat the skillet until hot, then add the oil. This creates a nice sear that locks in moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—145°F (63°C) is perfect!
- Let the cooked chops rest under foil for a few minutes before serving. This helps redistribute the juices.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have delicious skirt pork chops with a rich, flavorful gravy every time!
Skillet Pork Chops with Pan Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Optional: mashed potatoes or your preferred side for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook. Overall, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Now, season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. The seasoning is crucial for a flavorful chop!
2. Sear the Chops:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Wait until the oil shimmers, then carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Cook them undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes until they’re nice and browned on one side.
3. Flip and Add Flavor:
Now it’s time to flip those chops! Add the butter and thyme to the pan. Spoon some of the melted butter over the top of the chops for extra flavor and moisture. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside. Tent them loosely with foil to keep warm.
4. Make the Gravy:
Reduce the heat to medium. Sprinkle the flour into the skillet drippings and whisk it in for about 1 minute until it turns lightly brown. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to avoid any lumps. Cook this mixture for 2-3 minutes until it’s slightly thickened.
5. Add Cream and Final Touches:
Now stir in the heavy cream, and continue cooking for another 2 minutes until the gravy is smooth and rich. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Combine and Serve:
If you’d like, return the pork chops to the pan for a moment to warm them through in the gravy. It adds a nice finish! Now, serve the pork chops on top of mashed potatoes or your favorite side. Don’t forget to spoon that delicious pan gravy generously over the top!
Enjoy your tender skillet pork chops with flavorful pan gravy—a comforting and satisfying dish that’s sure to please!
Can I Substitute Chicken Broth with Vegetable Broth?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option or simply want a different flavor, vegetable broth will work perfectly in place of chicken broth.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the gravy may be slightly less rich.
Can I Make This Recipe with Boneless Pork Chops?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! They may cook a bit faster, so be sure to check the internal temperature early to ensure they don’t overcook.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to prevent drying out, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep them moist if needed.