These easy juicy boneless pork chops are tender and flavorful! You can make them quickly in one pan, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
I love how juicy they get with just a sprinkle of seasoning and a little cooking oil. Serve them with veggies or mashed potatoes for a yummy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Pork Chops: Choose chops that are about 1-inch thick for optimal cooking. If you can’t find boneless, bone-in chops work too; just adjust the cooking time.
Olive Oil: I recommend olive oil for its flavor, but vegetable oil is a budget-friendly alternative. For a buttery taste, you can use a mix of both!
Spices: Paprika gives a beautiful color and mild flavor. Garlic and onion powder add depth; if you don’t have these, fresh minced garlic and shallots can be nice substitutes for a more vibrant flavor.
Dried Thyme: This is optional but adds a lovely herbaceous note. You can replace it with rosemary or Italian seasoning if you have that on hand. Fresh herbs are always a great choice!
How Can I Get a Nice Sear on My Pork Chops?
Getting that perfect sear is one of the secrets to juicy pork chops. Here’s how to do it:
- Always dry the pork chops with paper towels first. This removes moisture and helps them brown.
- Heat the oil until it’s shimmering, but not smoking. This ensures the chops won’t soak in oil while cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If your skillet is too crowded, the chops will steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Let them cook without moving them for the first few minutes. This forms a nice crust!
Resting the chops after cooking is just as important; it locks in juices for that tender bite. Follow these tips, and you’ll have deliciously juicy pork chops every time!
Easy Juicy Boneless Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time, making a total of approximately 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Begin by patting the pork chops dry with a paper towel. This is an important step because removing excess moisture allows for a beautiful sear when cooking.
2. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. This spice mix will add lots of flavor to your pork chops.
3. Season the Pork Chops:
Rub the spice mixture evenly on both sides of each pork chop. Make sure to coat them well so every bite is tasty!
4. Heat the Oil in the Pan:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil is hot but not smoking. You want it to shimmer to ensure a good sear.
5. Cook the Pork Chops:
Add the pork chops to the pan in a single layer, making sure not to crowd them. Let them cook without moving them for about 4-5 minutes, until they develop a nice golden-brown crust.
6. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the pork chops and cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for juicy, flavorful pork.
7. Rest Before Serving:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and transfer them to a plate. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to help the juices redistribute, making them even juicier.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if you like. Serve hot with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delicious, juicy pork chops!
FAQ for Easy Juicy Boneless Pork Chops
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking! The best way to thaw is in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can place the sealed pork chops in cold water for a quicker thaw.
What Can I Substitute for Paprika?
If you don’t have paprika on hand, you can use chili powder for a bit of heat or smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor. Adjust the amount to match your taste preferences!
How Do I Know When the Pork Chops Are Done Cooking?
The most reliable way to check is to use a meat thermometer. You want the internal temperature to reach 145°F (63°C) for juicy and safe-to-eat pork. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into one chop to check that it’s no longer pink in the center.
Can I Make These Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and cook the pork chops earlier in the day and reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave just before serving. Just be careful not to overcook them during reheating to keep them juicy!
