Skillet pork chops are juicy, tender, and full of flavor! Cooked in one pan, they make dinner a breeze. Just season, sear, and enjoy these delicious chops with your favorite sides.
Honestly, there’s something magical about the crispy edges and savory taste. I often whip these up for quick weeknight meals! They pair great with mashed potatoes or a simple salad. 🍽️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and moisture. If you prefer boneless chops, they work too but may cook faster, so keep an eye on them!
Olive Oil: This adds a rich flavor, but vegetable oil or avocado oil can be used if needed. I find olive oil gives a nice touch.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a lot of aroma. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder, but adjust the amount accordingly since powdered garlic is more concentrated.
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and thyme are classic here. If fresh isn’t available, dried herbs can be substituted, though use about a third of the amount, as they are more potent.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness. If you’ve got other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, feel free to toss them in instead!
Deglazing Liquid: Chicken broth enhances flavor. White wine can add a nice depth too. You can skip this step if you prefer, but it makes a yummy sauce!
What’s the Best Way to Sear Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops properly is key to achieving that delicious crust and locking in juices. Starting with room-temperature meat helps with even cooking.
- Make sure your pan is hot before adding oil. You want it shimmering but not smoking.
- Let the chops cook without fussing with them for the first few minutes. This helps create that nice brown crust. Be patient!
- When flipping, add garlic and herbs to the pan so they infuse their flavor while the chops finish cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 145°F (63°C), and let the chops rest for a few minutes to keep them juicy.
How to Make Skillet Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 3-4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 3-4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 6-8 cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine (optional, for deglazing and sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30-35 minutes to prepare. You’ll need about 15-20 minutes of prep time to bring your chops to room temperature and season them, followed by roughly 15-20 minutes of cooking time. It’s quick and simple, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by removing the pork chops from the refrigerator about 15-20 minutes before you plan to cook them. This helps them come to room temperature so they cook evenly. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Place a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Swirl the oil around to coat the bottom of the pan evenly. You want the oil nice and hot but not smoking!
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
When the oil is shimmering, carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Let them sear without moving them for 4-5 minutes until you see a beautiful golden-brown crust forming.
4. Add Flavoring Ingredients:
Flip the pork chops over, then add the smashed garlic, rosemary, thyme, and cherry tomatoes around them in the skillet. These will infuse the chops with delicious flavors as they cook.
5. Cook Through:
Continue cooking the pork chops for another 4-5 minutes. To keep them juicy, use a spoon to baste some of the pan juices over the tops of the chops occasionally.
6. Deglaze the Pan:
If you prefer, pour in the chicken broth or white wine to deglaze the pan. Use a spatula to scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to create a light sauce.
7. Check Temperature:
Check the internal temperature of the pork chops with a meat thermometer. They should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. This way, you know your chops are perfectly cooked!
8. Rest and Serve:
Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chops juicy. You can garnish them with the cooked herbs and tomatoes from the pan before serving.
9. Enjoy!
Serve your warm, perfectly seared skillet pork chops alongside your favorite sides like creamy mashed potatoes, fresh steamed vegetables, or a crisp, refreshing salad. Enjoy this delicious meal with family and friends!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops work well, but they may cook faster, so keep an eye on the internal temperature to avoid overcooking. Aim for 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No worries! You can substitute fresh herbs with dried herbs. Use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. For this recipe, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary would be great alternatives!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
While these pork chops are best served fresh, you can prep the chops by seasoning them earlier in the day and refrigerating them. Cook them as instructed when you’re ready to serve!