These juicy skillet pork chops are a quick dinner winner! They are seared to golden perfection, and each bite is packed with flavor from simple spices and a touch of garlic.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that comes together in just 30 minutes? I enjoy making these on busy nights, and my family can’t get enough—everyone’s asking for seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless pork chops or even chicken breasts can work, but they may cook faster. Just keep an eye on the internal temperature!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a lovely aroma and flavor. You can substitute with garlic powder, but use less (about 1/4 teaspoon) since it’s more concentrated. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more!
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice tang. If you don’t have Dijon, whole grain mustard can work too. For a milder option, yellow mustard will do in a pinch. It’s a bit different in taste, but still tasty!
Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme enhances the sauce beautifully. If you don’t have fresh, dried thyme is a good alternative; just use a third of the amount, as dried herbs are stronger. Fresh parsley brightens the dish at the end, but you can skip it if you’re out!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops can seem tricky, but it’s all about a couple of key steps. First, make sure they are seasoned well with salt and pepper to enhance their taste. Searing them in a hot skillet creates a nice brown crust that locks in the juices.
- Preheat your skillet before adding the oil, and make sure it’s hot enough before putting in the pork chops.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for optimal juiciness.
- Let the chops rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing.
The Best Juicy Skillet Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and cooking the pork chops, and about 15 minutes to make and simmer the flavorful sauce. It’s quick, easy, and so delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by generously seasoning your pork chops with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will add a lot of flavor to the meat.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant (but be careful not to burn it!).
4. Combine Ingredients for the Sauce:
Next, pour in the chicken broth. Then, stir in the Dijon mustard and honey until everything is well combined. Let this mixture simmer for about 3-5 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and enhance the flavors.
5. Return Pork Chops to the Skillet:
Add the fresh thyme to the sauce, then reduce the heat to low. Carefully return the cooked pork chops to the skillet. Spoon some of the delicious sauce over the chops and let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to reheat and absorb those wonderful flavors.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is cooked, sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the pork chops for a lovely garnish. Serve the pork chops with the sauce drizzled on top and enjoy your deliciously juicy skillet pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! If you prefer boneless pork chops, just keep an eye on the cooking time since boneless chops generally cook faster. Aim for about 3-4 minutes per side, and make sure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, you can use vegetable broth or even water in a pinch. If using water, consider adding an extra pinch of salt and a dash of soy sauce for more flavor!
How to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them up in the skillet over low heat or in the microwave until they are warmed through. A splash of chicken broth can help keep them juicy!
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables! You can sauté sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach along with the garlic for added flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for the veggies so they are tender but not overcooked.
