Pork Chop Recipes

Pan-seared pork chops are a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s easy to make, even for beginners. Here’s a detailed guide to cooking tender and juicy pork chops with garlic and thyme:

Ingredients:

• 2 Pork Chops: Bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick.
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil: For cooking.
• 2 cloves Garlic: Minced.
• 2-3 sprigs Fresh Thyme: Or 1 tsp dried thyme.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• 1/2 cup Chicken Broth: Or water, for deglazing (optional).
• 1 tbsp Butter: Optional, for extra richness.

Equipment:

• Large Skillet: Preferably cast iron or stainless steel.
• Tongs: For flipping pork chops.
• Meat Thermometer: Optional, for checking doneness.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Pork Chops:
   • Pat dry the pork chops with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat Olive Oil:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
3. Sear Pork Chops:
   • Carefully add pork chops to the skillet. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes on the first side, or until golden brown.
4. Add Garlic and Thyme:
   • Flip the pork chops and scatter minced garlic and thyme sprigs (or dried thyme) around them in the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness. Adjust cooking time based on thickness and desired doneness.
5. Deglaze Skillet (Optional):
   • If using, carefully add chicken broth or water to the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds flavor to the sauce.
6. Finish Cooking:
   • Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter to the skillet, if using, and swirl until melted and combined with the pan juices. Baste the pork chops with the sauce for added flavor and moisture.
7. Rest and Serve:
   • Remove pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes on a plate to allow juices to redistribute.
8. Serve:
   • Serve the pork chops hot, drizzled with any remaining pan sauce and garnished with additional fresh thyme leaves if desired.

Tips for Success:

• Pork Chop Thickness: Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of your pork chops. Thicker chops may require additional cooking time.
• Resting Time: Allowing the pork chops to rest after cooking ensures juicier meat.
• Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices such as rosemary, sage, or smoked paprika for varied flavors.

Serving Suggestions:

• Side Dishes: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
• Sauces: Pair with a creamy mustard sauce or a simple pan gravy made from the drippings.

This beginner-friendly pan-seared pork chop recipe with garlic and thyme is sure to impress with its simplicity and delicious flavors. Enjoy the tender and juicy pork chops as a delightful main dish for any meal!