Why Make This Recipe
Tender Juicy Pork Chops are a delicious and simple dish that can impress your family and friends. They are easy to prepare, take minimal time to cook, and are packed with flavor. Using basic ingredients, this recipe provides a wholesome meal that everyone will love. You can enjoy these pork chops on their own or with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables.
How to Make Tender Juicy Pork Chops
Ingredients:
- 4 pork chops
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
Directions:
- Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the pork chops to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 10-15 minutes until pork chops are cooked through and tender.
- Stir in butter before serving for extra flavor.
How to Serve Tender Juicy Pork Chops
Serve the pork chops with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. You can also drizzle some of the cooking juices over the chops for added moisture and flavor. For a special touch, serve with a slice of lemon or your favorite sauce.
How to Store Tender Juicy Pork Chops
To store leftovers, let the pork chops cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the pork chops for longer storage. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer bag. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over low heat.
Tips to Make Tender Juicy Pork Chops
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the pork chops to achieve a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F for perfect doneness.
- Allowing the chops to rest for a few minutes after cooking can help retain their juices.
Variation
You can change the flavor by adding different herbs or spices. For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or using smoked paprika. If you want a sweet touch, you could marinate the chops in a mixture of honey and mustard before cooking.
FAQs
Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops. The cooking time might be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on them.
What can I serve with pork chops?
Pork chops pair well with sides like mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, green beans, or a simple salad.
Can I cook these pork chops in the oven?
Yes, you can cook them in the oven. After searing, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F and bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
Tender Juicy Pork Chops
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces pork chops Bone-in or boneless
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon butter For added flavor
Method
Preparation
- Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Cooking
- Add the pork chops to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 10-15 minutes until pork chops are cooked through and tender.
- Stir in butter before serving for extra flavor.