Here’s a fantastic recipe for the greatest pork chops that are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor!
Tender Juicy Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or your favorite herb)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- For the Marinade (optional but recommended):
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Marinate the Pork Chops (Optional):
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and apple cider vinegar.
- Place the pork chops in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight for more flavor).
- Prepare the Chops:
- Remove the pork chops from the marinade (if using) and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme.
- Sear the Pork Chops:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Baste with Butter:
- Once the pork chops are browned, reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the pan. As the butter melts, spoon it over the chops for added flavor and moisture.
- Check Doneness:
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If they haven’t reached this temperature, cover the skillet and cook for an additional few minutes.
- Rest the Chops:
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them juicy.
- Serve:
- Enjoy your tender, juicy pork chops with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad!
Tips
- For even more flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or sage during the cooking process.
- If you have time, letting the pork chops rest in the marinade overnight will enhance the flavor even more!
Enjoy your delicious pork chops!