These easy juicy boneless pork chops are a quick meal that’s full of flavor! Just season them, cook until golden, and enjoy the tender, mouthwatering meat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Pork Chops: Choose chops that are about 1-inch thick for even cooking. If you can’t find boneless, bone-in chops work well too, but ensure they take a little longer to cook through.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps with browning. You can substitute with canola oil or avocado oil if preferred. Both have high smoke points and will keep your pork chops juicy.
Spices: The paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder blend give great flavor. If you’re looking for heat, adding cayenne pepper can spice things up! Fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano can also be great substitutes for thyme.
Butter: This is optional but adds a lovely richness. You could use a dairy-free butter alternative for a healthier option or skip it entirely if you want a lighter meal.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Juicy?
To keep your pork chops juicy, start by patting them dry to get a nice sear. Searing locks in moisture. Make sure you don’t overcrowd the skillet; this keeps the heat high enough to brown the chops instead of steaming them.
- Cook on medium-high heat and resist flipping them until a crust forms.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Remove at 145°F for perfect tenderness.
- Let them rest after cooking; this prevents juices from spilling out when you cut into them.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have delicious, juicy boneless pork chops every time!
Easy Juicy Boneless Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 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 thyme for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon butter for finishing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick 20-minute meal. You’ll have juicy pork chops ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
First, pat the boneless pork chops dry with paper towels. This is important because it helps achieve a nice, golden-brown sear on the outside!
2. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. This spice mixture will add awesome flavor to your pork chops!
3. Season the Chops:
Take your spice blend and rub it evenly over both sides of each pork chop. Make sure the chops are well coated for maximum flavor!
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. This hot oil is key to getting that perfect sear!
5. Cook the Pork Chops:
Add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet. Cook them without moving for about 4-5 minutes. You want to let them develop that lovely crust.
6. Flip and Finish Cooking:
After 4-5 minutes, flip the pork chops over and cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Optional Butter Finish:
If you’re feeling indulgent, during the last minute of cooking, add a tablespoon of butter to the pan. Spoon the melted butter over the pork chops for extra richness.
8. Let Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your chops juicy!
9. Serve:
Garnish your pork chops with fresh thyme sprigs if you’d like, then serve and enjoy your juicy, flavorful creation!
These pork chops are quick to make and perfect for a satisfying meal. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will work well too, but they may require a few extra minutes of cooking time. Just make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
What Should I Serve with Boneless Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. You can also enjoy them over rice or pasta to soak up any delicious juices!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of broth or water to help maintain moisture.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Yes! Marinating the pork chops in your spice mix or a simple marinade overnight can enhance the flavor and tenderness. Just be mindful of the salt content in the seasoning to avoid over-curing the meat.
Feel free to adjust the recipe to fit your taste preferences and enjoy your cooking adventure!
