These easy juicy boneless pork chops are perfect for a quick dinner! Cooked to perfection, they are tender and full of flavor, making everyone at the table smile.
I always serve them with mashed potatoes. Watching my kids dive into dinner is the best part! Plus, they’re quick to make—just season, sear, and serve!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Pork Chops: Choose pork chops that are about 1 inch thick for juiciness. If you can’t find boneless, bone-in chops work too, but cooking times will vary. They’re great for a quick meal!
Paprika: This adds a nice smoky flavor. If you want a bit of heat, consider using smoked paprika. In a pinch, you can use chili powder or even cayenne for more spice!
Herbs: Dried thyme is amazing, but fresh thyme adds a fresher taste. If you don’t have thyme, rosemary or Italian seasoning can also fit well.
Oil: I prefer olive oil for its flavor, but vegetable oil or canola oil works too. Just make sure you use an oil with a high smoke point.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Sear on My Pork Chops?
Getting that beautiful golden-brown sear is key to tasty pork chops. Here’s how to do it right:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Moisture can cause them to steam rather than sear.
- Heat the skillet on medium-high until it’s hot and shimmering. A hot skillet helps create a nice crust.
- Add the oil and let it heat briefly before adding the pork. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
- Let the pork chops sear undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes. Resist the urge to move them around. Flip and repeat on the other side!
Proper resting after cooking is just as important—this helps retain all those delicious juices. Enjoy your meal!
Easy Juicy Boneless Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- Optional: 1 tablespoon butter for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 10 minutes to prepare and about 10-12 minutes to cook, making the total time around 20-25 minutes. That means you can have a delicious, juicy pork chop dinner on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will add great flavor to your pork chops, so give it a good stir!
2. Season the pork chops:
Take your boneless pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important to help get a nice sear. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops, pressing gently to help it stick.
3. Heat the skillet:
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Let it heat up until you see it shimmering. This indicates that the oil is hot enough for searing.
4. Sear the pork chops:
Carefully place the seasoned pork chops in the skillet in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can prevent proper searing. Let them sear undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes until they are nicely browned.
5. Flip and cook:
Turn the pork chops over and reduce the heat to medium. If you’re using butter, add it to the pan now for extra flavor. Cook for another 4-5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Rest the meat:
Once cooked, take the pork chops out of the skillet and place them on a plate to rest for about 5 minutes. This rest period allows the juices inside to redistribute, keeping your chops juicy!
7. Serve:
After resting, serve the pork chops warm with your favorite sides, such as creamy mashed potatoes or colorful steamed vegetables. Enjoy your juicy, flavorful meal!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Juicy Boneless Pork Chops
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops! Just remember that they may require a slightly longer cooking time. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe eating.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops for 30 minutes to a few hours can enhance the flavor. Just be aware that using the spice mixture as a dry rub instead will help form a nice crust when searing.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to maintain their juiciness.
What Should I Serve with Pork Chops?
Pork chops pair wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. A simple salad or roasted veggies also makes a great accompaniment for a well-rounded meal!
