The Best Juicy Skillet Pork Chops
Pork chops are a quick, healthy, and simple dinner. Our method ensures juicy, tender, and flavorful pork chops with little fuss. Check the notes section for tips on which pork chops are best.
Pork chops are a quick, healthy, and simple dinner. Our method ensures juicy, tender, and flavorful pork chops with little fuss. Check the notes section for tips on which pork chops are best.
- salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 ounces each see notes
- 1 teaspoon chili powder see our homemade chili powder recipe
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock, see our homemade chicke
- 2 teaspoons honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley optional
- Carbohydrate 4.53993822426312 g
- Cholesterol 7.62578125327025 mg
- Fat 3.85701531410368 g
- Fiber 0.468822920567555 g
- Protein 0.512625000075646 g
- Saturated Fat 1.96262396958258 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (46g)
- Sodium 922.324458352471 mg
- Sugar 4.07111530369556 g
- Trans Fat 0.249465375098844 g
- Calories 53 calories
Step-by-step
- Take the pork chops out of the refrigerator and season on both sides with salt and pepper — we use just less than 1/4 teaspoon of fine salt per pork chop. Set the chops aside to rest for 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, make the spice rub. In a small bowl, mix the flour, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- After 30 minutes, use a paper towel to pat the pork chops dry then rub both sides of the chops with the spice rub.
- Heat the oil in a medium skillet (with lid) over medium-high heat. As soon as the oil is hot and looks shimmery, add the pork. Cook until golden, 2 to 3 minutes.
- Flip the pork so that the seared side is facing up. (If there is a fattier side of the pork, use kitchen tongs to hold the chops, fat-side-down until it sizzles and browns slightly; about 30 seconds.) Reduce the heat to low then cover the skillet with a lid. Cook 6 to 12 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer reads 145 degrees F when inserted into the thickest part of the chop. (Since cook time depends on the thickness of the chops, check for doneness at 5 minutes then go from there, checking every 2 minutes). If you do not have a thermometer, you will know they are done, if when cutting into the chops, the juices run clear.
- Transfer pork chops to a plate then cover loosely with aluminum foil. Let the pork rest for 5 minutes.
- While the pork rests, make the pan sauce. Increase the heat to medium-high then add the chicken stock, vinegar, and honey. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pan so that any stuck bits of pork come up. Bring to a simmer and cook until reduced by half. Taste then adjust the seasoning with salt, more vinegar or honey.
- Slide the skillet off of the heat and when the sauce is no longer simmering, swirl in the butter. Slide the pork chops back into the pan and spoon some of the sauce on top. Alternatively, slice the chops then place back into the pan.
- Scatter fresh parsley over the pork then serve.
The Best Juicy Skillet Pork Chops: A Busy Mom's Weeknight Delight
As a working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner needs to be quick, healthy, and delicious – no exceptions. That's why I've perfected this recipe for juicy skillet pork chops. It's a lifesaver on those hectic weeknights when I’m juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and everything in between. This recipe is so simple even my 10-year-old can help with some of the steps, which is a huge plus in our house!
Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times. This method focuses on maximizing flavor and tenderness with minimal effort. The secret lies in a simple spice rub and a clever pan-saucing technique that transforms leftover drippings into a rich and flavorful sauce. The result? Perfectly cooked pork chops that are incredibly juicy and bursting with flavor. Honestly, it's a restaurant-quality meal made in the comfort of my own kitchen— and in less than 30 minutes! Serve them with a simple side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
What I Love About This Recipe:
- Speed: This recipe is incredibly fast, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Simplicity: The method is straightforward and easy to follow, even for beginner cooks.
- Flavor: The spice rub adds a delicious depth of flavor to the pork chops, and the pan sauce takes it to the next level.
- Versatility: You can easily adapt the spice rub to your liking, adding different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. I often experiment with different spices based on what I have on hand, from cumin to oregano.
Tips for Success:
- Use quality pork chops: Thicker chops are better for this method as they cook more evenly. Look for chops that are at least 1 inch thick.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have more than four chops, cook them in batches to ensure they sear properly.
- Let the pork rest: Allowing the pork chops to rest before serving is crucial for retaining their juiciness. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Don’t overcook: Overcooked pork chops will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F. I can’t emphasize enough how important this step is. If you’re using a meat thermometer, you are in control!
This recipe is a true testament to the fact that delicious, healthy meals don’t have to be complicated. With a little planning and a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-worthy dinner that your family will absolutely love. So, the next time you're short on time but craving a flavorful and satisfying meal, give these juicy skillet pork chops a try. You won’t regret it! And remember, even on the busiest of days, taking the time to create a simple, delicious meal can be a form of self-care, a quiet moment to appreciate the simple things in life.
Ingredients I Often Add or Swap Out:
- Different spices: Experiment with different spice combinations to find your favorite flavor profile.
- Fresh herbs: Adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can enhance the flavor of the pork chops.
- Different types of vinegar: I sometimes use red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a tangier sauce.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms added to the pan sauce at the end can add a nice earthy flavor.
- Other sides: This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
