Skillet Pork Chops are easy to make and packed with flavor! Juicy and tender, they get a nice sear on the outside while staying moist inside. Yum!
I love whipping these up on a busy weeknight. They cook quickly in just one pan, which means less mess for me. Let’s be real, who doesn’t love easy clean-up? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops give the best flavor and moisture. If you prefer, boneless chops will work as well. Just watch the cooking time, as they cook faster.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its rich flavor. You can substitute vegetable oil or canola oil if needed, but olive oil adds a lovely taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can be used—about 1/4 teaspoon per clove. Just adjust to your taste!
Baby Potatoes: Any small potatoes can work! Red or yellow potatoes are great options. You can use larger potatoes, just cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking.
Cherry Tomatoes: Substitute with regular tomatoes if needed. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces to fit in the dish. They add a nice sweetness!
How Do I Achieve a Perfect Sear on My Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops is key to locking in flavor and moisture. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to pat the pork chops dry. Removing moisture helps them get that nice golden-brown crust.
- Heat the oil until it’s hot. You can test this by adding a small piece of pork, and it should sizzle when it hits the pan.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you’re cooking more than 4 chops, do it in batches. This way, they get plenty of contact with the skillet for a good sear.
- Let them sit without moving for about 4-5 minutes on the first side. This helps develop that nice crust!
Remember, patience is key for this step, but the delicious result is so worth it!
Skillet Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 3-4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup baby potatoes, halved if large
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine (optional, for deglazing)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed
This delicious Skillet Pork Chops recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you should expect about 30 minutes from start to finish. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, making clean-up a breeze!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork Chops
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them to get a nice sear. Once they’re dry, season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This adds wonderful flavor to the meat!
2. Sear the Chops
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Let them sear without moving them for about 4-5 minutes, until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. This will lock in the juices and flavor.
3. Add the Vegetables
Now it’s time to flip the pork chops! Carefully turn them over and add the halved baby potatoes and cherry tomatoes around the chops in the skillet. This not only adds flavor but also creates a delicious, one-pan meal.
4. Add Garlic and Thyme
Sprinkle the minced garlic and fresh thyme sprigs into the pan. Stir everything a bit to combine the flavors. Continue to cook for another 4-5 minutes, spooning the oil and juices over the chops occasionally to keep them moist and flavorful.
5. Finish with Butter
Lower the heat to medium-low, then add the butter to the skillet. Let it melt, and use a spoon to baste the pork chops and vegetables with the rich, buttery juices. This step takes the dish to another level!
6. Deglaze the Skillet (Optional)
If you like, deglaze the pan by pouring in chicken broth or white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes. This creates a lovely sauce to drizzle over the finished dish.
7. Check for Doneness
To ensure your pork chops are perfectly cooked, check the temperature with an instant-read thermometer. The thickest part of the chop should read 145°F (63°C). If they’re not quite there, give them a few more minutes.
8. Rest and Serve
Once done, remove the chops and vegetables from the skillet and let the pork rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making them even juicier!
9. Garnish and Enjoy
Finally, garnish your dish with fresh chopped parsley and extra thyme sprigs for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious Skillet Pork Chops!
This recipe gives you juicy, well-seasoned pork chops with a crispy seared crust, tender roasted baby potatoes, and sweet cherry tomatoes, all infused with garlic and fresh thyme aroma. It’s a perfect one-pan meal for any cozy dinner!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! You can use boneless pork chops, but be aware they may cook faster. Check for doneness at around 3-4 minutes per side or when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Thyme?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh thyme, you can use about 1 teaspoon of dried thyme instead. Just add it to the pan when you add the garlic, and it will infuse the dish with great flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Substitute the Baby Potatoes?
Sure! You can use other small potatoes like new potatoes or fingerlings. If you want to use larger potatoes, just chop them into smaller, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
