This easy juicy boneless pork chops recipe is perfect for a quick dinner! The pork chops stay tender and flavorful, thanks to a simple seasoning blend that brings out their natural taste.
You’ll love how fast this dish comes together. I often whip it up on busy nights—just sear, cook, and enjoy with your favorite sides. It’s a meal that leaves everyone happy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Pork Chops: Choose thick chops (about 1 inch) for the best juiciness. If you’re short on pork chops, you can use bone-in chops or other cuts like pork loin, but they might require slightly different cooking times.
Olive Oil: While I love using olive oil for its flavor, you can use any cooking oil like avocado oil or vegetable oil. If you’re avoiding oil altogether, consider using broth for cooking—but the finish won’t be as crispy.
Seasonings: Paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder are key for flavor. You could substitute smoked paprika for a bit of a kick or use fresh garlic and onion instead—just be mindful not to burn them while cooking!
Dried Thyme: This herb complements pork wonderfully. If you don’t have it, Italian seasoning or rosemary can be good substitutes.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Juicy?
Juicy pork chops start with proper cooking. First, let them sit at room temperature so they cook evenly. Searing is crucial—be sure not to move the chops around while they cook. This helps develop a nice crust while keeping the moisture locked in.
- Heat your skillet until it’s really hot before adding the oil and pork.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if needed. This will prevent steaming and ensure that beautiful sear.
- A meat thermometer is your best friend! Aim for 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked chops.
Lastly, let the chops rest after cooking! This step helps in redistributing the juices and keeps them tender. Happy cooking!
Easy Juicy Boneless Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the pork chops and around 10-15 minutes cooking them. Plus, there’s a 5-minute resting period before serving. So, you can have a delicious dinner ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by taking the pork chops out of the fridge. Let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This step is essential for even cooking. While the chops are resting, you can get your seasoning ready!
2. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give your pork chops a yummy flavor! Make sure it’s well blended.
3. Season the Pork Chops:
Next, pat the pork chops dry with paper towels—this helps achieve a nice sear. Rub the seasoning mix all over both sides of each chop. You want every bit to be nicely coated with flavor!
4. Heat the Skillet:
Pour the olive oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium-high. Wait until the oil is hot but not smoking. You can test this by flicking a drop of water into the skillet; if it sizzles, it’s ready!
5. Cook the Pork Chops:
Carefully place the seasoned pork chops into the skillet in a single layer. Make sure not to crowd the pan—if your skillet is small, cook in batches. Let them sear without moving them for about 4-5 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust.
6. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Once browned, flip the pork chops over. Cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) using a meat thermometer. This ensures they’re perfectly cooked and juicy!
7. Rest the Chops:
Remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a plate. Tent them loosely with foil and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle and keeps them succulent.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
After resting, serve the pork chops hot. You can garnish them with fresh thyme if you like. These delicious chops go really well with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a refreshing salad.
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful boneless pork chops! Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
While it’s best to use thawed pork chops for even cooking, you can use frozen ones if necessary. Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight, or use the cold water method to thaw quickly—seal them in a plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil works great. You could also use butter for an added rich flavor, but keep an eye on the heat to prevent burning.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist, or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.
Can I Double This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking; otherwise, they won’t sear properly. Cook them in batches if necessary to keep that juicy, golden crust!
