Pork Chops: To Cook The Perfect Juicy Pork Chop

Pork chops are a versatile and delicious cut of meat that can be prepared in a variety of ways. Cooking the perfect juicy pork chop can be a challenge, even for experienced chefs.

I am going to be honest with you. I grew up hating this cut of meat. My mother used to cook them in the oven with no seasonings at all into dry hard flavorless rocks. After moving out when I could then season things as much as I wanted I discovered all kinds of ways to cook things I didn’t like.

Like these apple bacon pork chops.

What are pork chops

Pork chops are a cut of meat taken from the loin of a pig. They are typically bone-in and can be cut into different thicknesses. Pork chops are a popular meat dish and can be prepared in a variety of ways, including grilling, broiling, baking, or pan-frying. They are often seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices, and may be served with a variety of side dishes such as vegetables, rice, or potatoes.

Pork chops are a leaver cut than pork steaks with lower fat content. Because of the lower fat content, it is easy to over-dry pork chops, the main reason many people shy away from this affordable cut of meat.

The Key To Juicy, Flavorful Pork Chops

To achieve juicy and flavorful pork chops, it is important to select the right cut of meat. For optimal results, bone-in pork chops that are approximately one inch thick are recommended. If the pork chops are too thin or boneless, they are likely to become overcooked, dry, and tough. In contrast, thicker pork chops require longer cooking times. The bone also plays a crucial role in enhancing both flavor and moisture, resulting in a succulent pork chop.

How to cook pork chops in a pan

Here is a simple recipe for cooking pork chops in a pan:

Ingredients:

• 4 pork chops, bone-in or boneless, about 1 inch thick
• Salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Fresh herbs (optional)

Instructions:

1. Remove the pork chops from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps them cook more evenly.
2. Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
4. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the pork chops in batches.
5. Cook the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are browned and cooked through. Use tongs to flip them over.
6. Lower the heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic and butter to the pan. Spoon the melted butter and garlic over the pork chops as they continue to cook.
7. Check the internal temperature of the pork chops using a meat thermometer. Pork chops should reach a minimum internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to be considered safe to eat.
8. Once the pork chops are cooked through, remove them from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and ensures the pork chops stay tender and juicy.
9. Optional: garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

Enjoy your deliciously cooked pork chops!

What kind of pan to cook pork chops

When it comes to cooking pork chops on the stovetop, a heavy-bottomed skillet or frying pan is the best choice. A cast iron skillet or stainless steel pan are good options, as they retain heat well and can create a nice sear on the pork chops. You can also use a non-stick skillet, but it won’t create as good of a sear.

Regardless of the type of pan you use, make sure it’s large enough to fit all the pork chops without overcrowding them. Overcrowding the pan can cause the pork chops to steam rather than sear, which can result in a less crispy crust.

How to cook pork chops in the slow cooker

Slow-cooking pork chops in a crockpot is an easy and convenient way to prepare them. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 pork chops, bone-in or boneless, about 1 inch thick
• Salt and pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon cold water
• Fresh herbs (optional)

Instructions:

1. Season both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary.
2. Place the seasoned pork chops in the slow cooker.
3. Pour chicken broth over the pork chops.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork chops are cooked through and tender.
5. Once the pork chops are cooked, remove them from the slow cooker and set them aside on a plate.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water until smooth.
7. Add the cornstarch mixture to the slow cooker and whisk until well combined. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
8. Serve the pork chops with the sauce spooned over them. Optional: garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

Enjoy your deliciously cooked pork chops!

How to cook pork chops in the oven

Cooking pork chops in the oven is a great way to get a crispy crust and juicy meat. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 pork chops, bone-in or boneless, about 1 inch thick
• Salt and pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh herbs (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
4. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the pork chops in batches.
5. Cook the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are browned and seared.
6. Once the pork chops are seared, add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Spoon the melted butter and garlic over the pork chops.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, until the pork chops are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Once the pork chops are cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and ensures the pork chops stay tender and juicy.
9. Optional: garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

Enjoy your deliciously cooked pork chops!

How to cook pork chops on the grill

Grilling pork chops is a great way to add smoky flavor and char marks to this tasty cut of meat. Follow these steps to grill perfect pork chops:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
3. Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
4. Place the pork chops on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) using a meat thermometer.
5. Avoid flipping the pork chops more than once, as this can cause them to dry out.
6. Let the pork chops rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
7. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Note: You can also add a glaze or BBQ sauce to the pork chops during the last few minutes of grilling for extra flavor.

Tips for the perfect juicy pork chops

Here are some tips for getting perfectly juicy pork chops:

Choose the right cut: Look for pork chops that have some marbling or fat, as this will help keep the meat moist during cooking. Bone-in pork chops are also a good choice, as the bone helps conduct heat and add flavor.

Brine the pork chops: Brining involves soaking the pork chops in a saltwater solution for a few hours before cooking. This can help the meat retain moisture and flavor during cooking. To brine, dissolve 1/4 cup of salt in 4 cups of water, add the pork chops, and refrigerate for 2-4 hours.

Let the pork chops come to room temperature: Letting the pork chops sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking allows them to cook more evenly and reduces the risk of overcooking.

Don’t overcook the pork chops: Overcooking pork chops can result in dry, tough meat. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops and remove them from the heat once they reach 145°F (63°C).

Let the pork chops rest: After cooking, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful chop.

Add a sauce or marinade: A flavorful sauce or marinade can help add moisture and flavor to pork chops. Try marinating the pork chops in a mixture of oil, vinegar, and herbs, or make a quick pan sauce with butter, garlic, and herbs.

By following these tips, you can get perfectly juicy and flavorful pork chops every time.

Cooking the perfect juicy pork chop takes some practice, but with the right techniques and a little patience, you can achieve a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether you prefer pan-seared, grilled, or baked pork chops, the key is to cook them to the right temperature and let them rest before serving.

Try our tips and techniques for cooking the perfect juicy pork chop at your next meal. Experiment with different seasonings and cooking methods to find your favorite way to prepare this classic dish.