Here’s a straightforward and delicious way to make juicy pork chops with a flavorful sear:
Ingredients (Serves 2–4)
- 4 boneless or bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Season the chops: Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Rub both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and herbs if using.
- Sear the pork chops: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add pork chops and sear 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Add garlic and deglaze: Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté 30 seconds. Pour in chicken broth or wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Simmer: Cover and let the chops simmer 5–8 minutes (depending on thickness) until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Finish with butter: Remove chops from the pan, stir butter into the pan sauce, and pour over the pork before serving.
- Serve: Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Tips
- Bone-in chops stay juicier, but boneless cook faster.
- Optional glaze: Mix 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup with 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard and brush on chops in the last 2 minutes of cooking for a sweet-savory finish.
- Let pork chops rest 3–5 minutes before serving to retain juices.
I can also give you a slow cooker version of pork chops with a savory gravy that’s hands-off and melts in your mouth. Do you want that version?
