Here’s a simple and delicious way to cook Pork Chops—juicy inside with a flavorful crust:
Ingredients (serves 2–4)
- 2–4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about ½–1 inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tsp paprika or smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Instructions
- Prep the pork chops:
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Cook the pork chops (stovetop method):
- Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add pork chops and sear 3–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Reduce heat to medium and cook another 4–6 minutes depending on thickness.
- Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for juicy, slightly pink pork.
- Rest:
- Let pork chops rest 3–5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve:
- Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple pan sauce (using pan drippings, a splash of broth, and butter).
Tips
- Bone-in chops tend to be juicier and more flavorful than boneless.
- Thick chops can finish in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–15 minutes after searing for even cooking.
- Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the skillet for extra aroma.
- Brining pork chops for 30 minutes in saltwater before cooking can make them even juicier.
If you want, I can also give a crispy air fryer pork chop recipe that cooks quickly and keeps the outside golden and crunchy while the inside stays tender. Do you want that version?
