These easy juicy boneless pork chops are a treat! They cook up tender and flavorful in no time, making them perfect for busy nights.
Honestly, I love how quick this recipe is. You can whip up dinner and have leftovers for lunch the next day—unless you eat them all first! 😄
Just season, sear, and watch them sizzle! They’re great paired with veggies or mashed potatoes for a cozy meal—simple and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Pork Chops: The star of the dish! Look for chops that are about 1 inch thick for optimal juiciness. If you’re in a pinch, you could use bone-in chops, but be sure to adjust cooking times.
Olive Oil: Great for searing! If you don’t have it, canola oil or vegetable oil works fine. These oils have a high smoke point, perfect for getting that nice golden crust.
Spices: The paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder create a delicious flavor. You can swap in your favorite seasonings or even a premade spice blend if you want to simplify this step.
Dried Thyme: Fresh thyme adds more flavor, but use what you have! In a pinch, dried oregano or rosemary can work too. Fresh herbs tend to be stronger, so adjust accordingly.
How Do You Get a Perfectly Sear on Pork Chops?
Achieving a good sear is essential for juicy pork chops! Here’s how to nail it:
- Dry Them Well: Make sure your pork chops are patted dry. Moisture can prevent a good sear.
- Hot Pan: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding oil. If the oil shimmers, that’s your cue!
- Leave Them Alone: Once you place the chops in the pan, resist the urge to move them. Letting them sit will let that golden crust form!
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chops reach 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.
Following these tips will help ensure your pork chops turn out juicy and delicious every time!
How to Make Easy Juicy Boneless Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if available)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
First, you want to make sure your pork chops are dry. Use paper towels to pat them dry. This step is important because a dry surface helps the pork get a nice sear when cooked.
2. Season the Chops:
Next, grab a small bowl. Combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if you like a bit of spice. Mix well! Then, sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over both sides of your pork chops. Press lightly so the spices stick well.
3. Heat the Skillet:
Now it’s time to get cooking! In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. This is the perfect temperature to sear the pork chops.
4. Sear the Pork Chops:
Carefully place the seasoned pork chops in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Let them sear for about 3-4 minutes without moving them. You want a nice golden-brown crust to form on the first side.
5. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Once they’re beautifully seared, flip the pork chops over. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for another 4-5 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Rest the Chops:
Take the chops out of the skillet and place them on a plate. Let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time is key for keeping them juicy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your deliciously seared pork chops hot! They go wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad. Dig in and enjoy your meal!
Now you have a delightful recipe for juicy boneless pork chops that are sure to impress! Enjoy your cooking!
FAQ for Easy Juicy Boneless Pork Chops Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the pork chops before cooking. The best way to thaw is by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can use the cold-water method: place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 1 hour.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use canola oil, vegetable oil, or grapeseed oil. These oils have high smoke points and work well for searing, just like olive oil.
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to help retain moisture, or quickly warm them in the microwave.
Can I Add More Spices to the Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste. You can add spices like cumin, coriander, or herbs like rosemary and oregano to enhance the flavor! Just start with small amounts so you don’t overpower the dish.
