Are you tired of dry, tough pork chops that taste like cardboard? Get ready to transform your dinner game with this mouthwatering Skillet Braised Pork Chops recipe that promises restaurant-quality flavor right in your own kitchen! In just 40 minutes, you'll create a dish so tender and succulent, your family will think a professional chef snuck into your home.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
Instructions
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature. Pat the chops dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
- Season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring even coverage.
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering and just beginning to smoke.
- Carefully place the seasoned pork chops into the hot skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms, creating a rich caramelized exterior.
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside on a clean plate. Reduce heat to medium and add sliced onions to the same skillet.
- Sauté the onions for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and start to soften. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour chicken broth into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, which will add depth of flavor.
- Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the onions and broth. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the top.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the lid and let the pork chops rest in the skillet for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute and the sauce to slightly thicken.
- Transfer the pork chops to serving plates, spooning the onions and pan sauce over the top. Garnish with additional fresh thyme if desired.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork chops sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps prevent tough meat.
- Pat Those Chops Dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture. Dry meat = better browning and more delicious caramelization.
- Don't Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook pork chops in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For foolproof results, check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for juicy, perfectly cooked pork.
- Let It Rest: Always allow your pork chops to rest after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
