Succulent and Savory Pork Chops: A Step-By-Step Recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in pork chops, approximately 1 inch thick
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Season the pork chops on both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large, oven-safe pan.
  4. Add the pork chops to the pan and sear them until they're golden brown on both sides, about 3-5 minutes per side.
  5. Remove the pork chops from the pan and set them aside.
  6. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and cook it until it's fragrant, about 1 minute.
  7. Add the chicken broth, butter, lemon juice, thyme, and rosemary to the pan. Stir well to combine.
  8. Return the pork chops to the pan.
  9. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and cook the pork chops for 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
  10. Remove the pan from the oven and let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

  • Cutting board - To prep and season the pork chops.
  • Knife - To trim any excess fat and cut the pork chops.
  • Large oven-safe pan - To sear the pork chops and then bake them in the oven.
  • Tongs - To flip and handle the pork chops while searing.
  • Measuring spoons - To accurately measure the salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
  • Garlic press - To mince the garlic cloves.
  • Spatula - To scrape any browned bits from the pan when making the sauce.
  • Oven mitts - To handle the hot pan when transferring it to and from the oven.
  • Meat thermometer - To check the internal temperature of the pork chops and ensure they're cooked through.

Recipe variations

  • Replace the bone-in pork chops with boneless pork chops.
  • Try using different seasonings such as paprika, garlic powder, or dried herbs.
  • Add a breadcrumb or parmesan cheese crust to the pork chops for extra texture.
  • Marinate the pork chops in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and ginger for a sweet and savory twist.
  • For a healthier option, grill the pork chops instead of pan-searing and baking them.
  • Substitute the pork chops with boneless chicken breasts or turkey cutlets.
  • Add sliced onions or mushrooms to the pan for extra flavor.
  • Make a creamy sauce by adding heavy cream or sour cream to the pan drippings.
  • For a citrusy twist, replace the lemon juice with orange juice.
  • Try different fresh herbs such as sage, thyme, or oregano.

Recipe overview

Are you looking for a classic, easy-to-make dish that's guaranteed to impress? Look no further than these flavorful and juicy Pork Chops. This recipe is a simple yet delicious way to prepare pork chops, with a beautiful sear on the outside and a tender, juicy inside. The chops are first seared to golden perfection, then baked to completion with a flavorful mixture of garlic, chicken broth, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon. The result is a deliciously savory dish with a touch of brightness, perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. Expect a cooking process that's as satisfying as the dish itself, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. A surefire way to delight your taste buds!

Common questions

  1. Can I use boneless pork chops instead? Yes, you can use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless chops may cook faster.
  2. Can I use a different type of oil? Yes, you can use a different type of oil such as vegetable oil or canola oil if you prefer.
  3. Can I substitute chicken broth with beef or vegetable broth? Yes, you can substitute chicken broth with beef or vegetable broth if desired. It may slightly alter the flavor, but it will still work well.
  4. Do I have to use fresh thyme and rosemary? Fresh thyme and rosemary add great flavor to the dish, but if you don't have them on hand, you can use dried herbs instead. Just remember to reduce the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
  5. Can I make this recipe without using an oven-safe pan? If you don't have an oven-safe pan, you can transfer the pork chops and sauce to a baking dish before placing it in the oven.
  6. What should I serve with these pork chops? These pork chops pair well with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - Used to prepare and season the pork chops.
  • Chef's knife - Essential for trimming excess fat from the pork chops and for any additional chopping or slicing needed.
  • Large oven-safe pan - Used for searing the pork chops on the stovetop and transferring them to the oven for cooking.
  • Tongs - Useful for flipping and handling the pork chops while searing and transferring them to the oven.
  • Meat thermometer - Essential for checking the internal temperature of the pork chops to ensure they are cooked to the correct doneness.
  • Spatula - Used for stirring the garlic and other ingredients in the pan.
  • Oven mitts - Protect hands from heat when handling the hot pan.
  • Serving platter - Used for presenting the cooked pork chops when serving.
  • Fresh herbs - Optional, but can be used as garnish for the finished dish.

Origin stories

Pork chops are a classic part of American cuisine, especially in the South where pork is a predominant part of the diet. One interesting tidbit about pork chops involves the Iowa State Fair, where a breaded pork tenderloin sandwich is a beloved tradition. The sandwich typically consists of a fried pork chop that is way larger than the bun it's served on, sometimes up to four times larger! This oversized sandwich, which is a testament to the heartiness of Midwestern meals, has become so popular that it's now considered a symbol of the state fair. The tradition of frying pork chops in this manner signifies the resourcefulness of early American farmers, who would use every part of the pig to feed their families.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.