Today, I’m sharing two fantastic pork chop recipes that are perfect for any weeknight meal. If you want a simple and delicious dinner, you’re in the right place. These easy pork chop ideas will make your cooking stress-free and full of flavor for you and your family.
I know finding quick and tasty meals can be a challenge, so I’ve put together two distinct ways to enjoy pork chops that are both straightforward and packed with goodness. Let’s get cooking!
Jump to Recipe:
Simple Baked Pork Chops for an Easy Dinner
Baked pork chops are a comforting classic and so simple to make. This recipe is perfect when you want a quick and hands-off meal that tastes great.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Thickness Matters: Choose chops that are about 1-inch thick for even cooking.
- Season Well: Don’t be shy with your seasoning blend; it adds so much flavor to the pork.
- Resting Time: Let your chops rest for a few minutes after baking to keep them juicy.
What You Need
- 4 boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
⏱️ Time: 35 minutes🍽️ Yields: 4 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Prep & Preheat
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice exterior and better texture when baked.
Step 2: Season Your Chops
Drizzle each pork chop with olive oil, then rub garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper all over both sides. Make sure they are fully coated.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Place the seasoned chops on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Step 4: Let Them Rest
Once cooked, remove the chops from the oven and let them rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before serving. This keeps all the juices inside.
📝 Final Note
Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork chops are cooked to the safe temperature of 145°F without overcooking them. This keeps them tender.
Quick Blackened Pork Chops for a Flavorful Meal
If you love a little spice and a lot of flavor, these blackened pork chops are for you. They cook up super fast in a hot pan, making them a great option for a speedy dinner.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Cast Iron Pan: A cast iron skillet is key for getting that perfect blackened crust on your chops.
- Good Ventilation: This recipe creates some smoke, so open a window or turn on your kitchen fan.
- Pound Them Thin: Thinner chops (about 1/2-inch) cook quickly and get a better blackening effect.
What You Need
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1/2-inch thick)
- 2 tbsp blackening seasoning blend
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (or olive oil)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for the pan)
⏱️ Time: 20 minutes🍽️ Yields: 4 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Prep Your Chops
Pat the pork chops very dry with paper towels. Brush them lightly with melted butter or olive oil. This helps the seasoning stick and adds richness.
Step 2: Season Generously
Sprinkle the blackening seasoning generously on both sides of each pork chop. Press it gently to make sure it sticks to the meat.
Step 3: Heat the Pan
Place a cast iron skillet over high heat. Add the olive oil and let it get very hot, until it just starts to smoke lightly. This high heat is important for proper blackening.
Step 4: Sear and Flip
Carefully place the seasoned chops in the hot skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until a dark, crusty ‘blackened’ surface forms and the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Step 5: Serve Right Away
Remove from the pan and serve immediately. Thin chops typically don’t need a long resting period.
📝 Final Note
Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the chops in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough to give them space. This helps achieve a better crust on each one.