These pan roasted pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! With a nice crispy crust on the outside, they are perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Cooking them is a breeze; just sear in the pan and finish in the oven. Nothing beats the smell of meat sizzling away—it’s simply mouthwatering!
I love serving these with roasted veggies or a simple salad. It’s a comforting meal that makes me feel like a kitchen pro every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and moisture. If you prefer boneless, that works too, but cook them for less time. For a leaner option, consider pork loin chops.
Seasoning: Salt and pepper are all you need, but feel free to add your favorite spices like paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives a rich flavor. You can replace it with ghee or even olive oil if you’re keeping things dairy-free.
Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary is perfect for this dish. If you don’t have either, dried herbs will do—use about a third of the amount.
How Do I Get the Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
Getting that golden-brown crust is key to a delicious pork chop. Follow these tips:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the pork. A cast iron skillet works best!
- Leave the chops undisturbed while searing—this helps develop a nice crust.
- Baste the pork with the hot butter and herbs to add flavor and keep them moist.
This searing method locks in all the juices, making your pork chops tender and tasty!
Pan Roasted Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3-4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme (or rosemary)
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: green beans or other vegetable for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook. In total, you should plan for around 25-30 minutes from start to finish, including resting time for the pork chops.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for finishing off the pork chops to keep them juicy.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, pat the pork chops dry. This helps achieve a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper for flavor.
3. Heat the Skillet:
Grab an oven-safe skillet, preferably cast iron, and heat it over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the olive oil. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil starts to shimmer.
4. Sear the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in the skillet and let them sear without moving them for about 3-4 minutes. You want the underside to be golden brown and crisp. This step is key for maximizing flavor!
5. Flip and Add Flavor:
Carefully flip the pork chops over. Now, add the butter, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh thyme sprigs to the pan. These will infuse wonderful flavors into the pork chops.
6. Baste for Extra Moisture:
Tilt the skillet slightly, and with a spoon, baste the pork chops with the melted butter and herbs for about 2 minutes. This helps to keep the meat moist and delicious.
7. Roast in the Oven:
Transfer your skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the pork chops for about 5-8 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Rest Before Serving:
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven. Place the pork chops on a plate and tent loosely with foil. Let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meat even tastier!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if you like, and serve alongside sautéed or steamed green beans or your favorite vegetable. Enjoy your beautifully crispy pan roasted pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work fine. Just note that they may cook faster, so start checking for doneness around the 5-minute mark after transferring to the oven.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Herbs?
If you don’t have fresh thyme or rosemary, you can use dried herbs. Just use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. Italian seasoning is also a great alternative!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or on the stovetop over low heat to maintain their moisture.
What’s the Best Way to Serve These Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad. You can also serve them with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra flavor kick!
