Skillet pork chops are juicy, flavorful, and super easy to make! Just season them and cook them in a hot skillet until they’re golden brown. Yum!
These chops pair nicely with veggies or mashed potatoes. Honestly, I can’t resist smothering them in gravy! Who could blame me? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for flavor and juiciness. If you prefer boneless, those work too! Just adjust cooking time slightly as they cook faster.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its rich taste. Peanut or avocado oil can substitute if needed. They also have high smoking points for searing!
Mushrooms: I use mushrooms for depth of flavor. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, feel free to add bell peppers or zucchini instead!
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds moisture and flavor. For a lighter option, use vegetable broth. If you’re cooking with wine, go dry white for a perfect match.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary add a lovely aroma. If you have dried herbs, use about a third of the amount. Just add them when you add the other ingredients!
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Seared Pork Chops?
Getting that nice golden crust on your pork chops is key. Here are some simple tips:
- Pat the pork chops dry before seasoning. This helps them brown nicely.
- Use a hot skillet, about medium-high, to get that sear. It’s all about the heat!
- Don’t crowd the pan! Cook in batches if necessary for even browning.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for juicy chops.
By following these tips, you’ll have flavorful and tender pork chops ready in no time!
How to Make Succulent Skillet Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Sauce:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or dry white wine, optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh thyme sprigs (about 3-4 sprigs)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (about 2 sprigs)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes around 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll need about 10 minutes to get everything ready and then approximately 20 minutes for cooking. Quick, simple, and oh-so-tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely! Generously season both sides of each chop with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. This heating helps to sear the meat perfectly!
3. Sear the Chops:
Add the pork chops to the hot skillet. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until they’re nicely browned and have reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and loosely tent them with foil to keep warm.
4. Sauté the Veggies:
Using the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 2 minutes until they start to soften. This creates a rich flavor!
5. Add Garlic and Tomatoes:
Stir in the minced garlic and cherry tomatoes. Cook everything together for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to integrate the flavors.
6. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine). Scrape the bottom of the skillet to release all those lovely browned bits. Let the mixture reduce for 2-3 minutes.
7. Finish the Sauce:
Add the butter, fresh thyme, and rosemary sprigs. Stir until the butter melts and the sauce is fragrant. It’s going to smell amazing!
8. Combine and Cook:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning some of that delicious sauce over them. Cover the skillet and cook for another 2-4 minutes to ensure the pork is heated through.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, remove the thyme and rosemary sprigs from the skillet. Plate your pork chops and drizzle the mushroom and tomato pan sauce generously over the top. Enjoy every bite!
These skillet pork chops are hearty and bursting with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used instead! Just be aware that they may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time to ensure they don’t dry out. Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Can I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth to keep them moist, or microwave briefly until warmed throughout.
Can I Substitute the Chicken Broth?
Absolutely! You can use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or dry white wine for added depth. Even water can work in a pinch, though it won’t provide as much richness.
What Can I Serve With Skillet Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. You could also serve them with roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
