This Easy Juicy Boneless Pork Chops recipe is perfect for a quick dinner! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll get tender chops packed with flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Pork Chops: Choose chops about 1-inch thick for best results. If you can’t find boneless, bone-in pork chops will work too; just adjust the cooking time.
Olive Oil: Olive oil gives a nice flavor, but vegetable oil or canola oil can be a good substitute. I sometimes mix in a bit of butter for extra richness!
Spices: The combination of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder adds great flavor. Feel free to swap in your favorites like chili powder or Italian seasoning if you prefer.
Dried Thyme: If you don’t have dried thyme, try using fresh thyme or skipping it altogether. Your pork will still taste fantastic!
How Do I Get the Perfect Crust on My Pork Chops?
Getting that golden-brown crust is all about drying the meat and proper cooking. Here’s what you need to focus on:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels before seasoning. This way, they will sear better.
- Don’t rush the cooking; let the chops cook undisturbed for several minutes on each side. This helps create that nice crust.
- Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chops. If it’s not hot, the pork will steam instead of sear.
Finally, let the pork rest after cooking! This keeps the juices locked in, making every bite juicy.
Easy Juicy Boneless Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili powder (optional for a mild kick)
- Fresh thyme sprigs or parsley (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes for cooking, so in total, you’ll need about 20 minutes to serve delicious juicy pork chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is super important for getting that lovely golden crust when you cook them.
2. Mix the Spices:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme (if you’re using it), salt, pepper, and cayenne or chili powder for a little heat if you’d like. This blend is what gives the pork those delicious flavors!
3. Season the Chops:
Drizzle the olive oil over both sides of the pork chops. Then, sprinkle the spice mixture evenly on both sides, pressing gently to make sure it sticks nicely.
4. Cook the Chops:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the pork chops to the pan. Don’t move them around! Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side, until they get that beautiful golden-brown crust.
5. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Now, gently flip the pork chops and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side. You want to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for best results!
6. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for about 3-5 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, making them extra juicy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you like, and serve your tasty pork chops right away. Pair them with your favorite sides for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Juicy Boneless Pork Chops
Can I Use Bone-in Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, bone-in pork chops will work as well! Just keep in mind that they may take a little longer to cook, so be sure to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What Side Dishes Go Well With Pork Chops?
Pork chops pair wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a fresh salad. You might also try serving them with roasted vegetables or rice for a complete meal!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or a skillet over low heat to keep them juicy.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Before Cooking?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops can enhance their flavor and tenderness. Just be sure not to marinate for more than 2 hours, especially if using acidic ingredients, to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
