These pan roasted pork chops are juicy and flavorful, making them perfect for any dinner. With just a few ingredients, you can have a delicious meal on the table!
Cooking these chops always makes me feel like a kitchen superstar! Pair them with some simple veggies or potatoes, and you’ve got a tasty feast everyone will love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use boneless chops or even pork tenderloin; just be aware they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: This adds rich flavor. If you’re out, any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil works. However, avoid oils with strong flavors, as they might overpower the dish.
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and thyme bring wonderful aroma. You can substitute with dried herbs, but use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more potent.
Butter: It adds a nice richness. If you prefer to keep it dairy-free, you can use a plant-based butter or olive oil for basting instead.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
Getting that perfect golden-brown crust takes a bit of patience and technique! Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chops; this helps create a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If they can’t fit without touching, cook in batches to avoid steaming.
- Let the chops sear untouched for 3-4 minutes; moving them too soon can prevent that crust from forming.
Once you flip them, you’ll see that beautiful caramelization, which adds great flavor!
How to Make Pan Roasted Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Flavoring:
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 3-4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 3-4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 30 minutes from start to finish! About 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s hot enough when you’re ready to roast your chops!
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Next, season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy—seasoning is key!
3. Sear the Chops:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the pork chops to the skillet and let them sear without moving them, for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want that beautiful golden-brown crust!
4. Add Garlic and Herbs:
Once the chops have a nice sear, add the smashed garlic cloves, fresh rosemary, and thyme to the pan. These will infuse great flavors into the pork!
5. Finish with Butter:
Reduce the heat to medium. Spoon some of the hot oil over the pork chops, then add the butter. Let it melt and foam up, then make sure to coat the chops with those delicious buttery juices.
6. Roast in the Oven:
Transfer the whole skillet to your preheated oven. Roast the pork chops for about 5-8 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check!
7. Baste and Rest:
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and baste the chops with the buttery pan juices. Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes on a plate. This step is essential for juicy, tender meat!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your pan roasted pork chops garnished with the fresh herbs from the pan. Enjoy with your favorite sides for a delicious meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! You can use boneless pork chops for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that they may cook faster, so check for doneness around the 4-6 minute mark in the oven.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No problem! You can use dried herbs instead. For this recipe, use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. So, for rosemary and thyme, about 1 teaspoon each should work just fine!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, covering them to retain moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Butter?
Sure thing! If you’d like to keep it dairy-free or lower in calories, you can either skip the butter or replace it with olive oil or a plant-based butter for basting instead.