These juicy pork chops come with a tasty pan gravy made right in the skillet! Simple to cook and full of flavor, they are a great weeknight dinner.
The best part? The gravy is like a warm hug for the chops. I can’t help but want to slather it on everything on my plate! Yum!
Cooking these pork chops is a breeze! Just sear them, whip up the gravy, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time. Quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor, but boneless chops work just as well! If you want a leaner option, try pork tenderloin.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness to the gravy. If you’re not a fan, you can replace it with shallots or even omit it entirely.
Chicken Broth: This is key for the gravy. If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, use low-sodium chicken broth or homemade broth if you have it on hand.
Dijon Mustard: It gives the gravy a nice tang. If Dijon isn’t available, yellow mustard will work in a pinch, though it might be a bit milder.
Fresh Thyme: Fresh thyme leaves bring a great herbal note. You can swap with dried thyme, but use about half as much since dried herbs are stronger.
How Do I Get the Pork Chops Perfectly Sear?
Searing your pork chops is crucial for building flavor. Start by ensuring the chops are dry; this helps them brown nicely. Heat the skillet until it’s hot, but not smoking, before adding oil. This way, you’ll get a nice crust.
- Use medium-high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
- Aim for 4-5 minutes on each side for a great sear, but avoid moving them too much. Let them sit so they can develop a good browning.
- Using a meat thermometer can help! Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for perfect doneness.
This method will maximize flavor and keep the pork tender and juicy!
Pork Chops with Pan Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish! You will spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and 20 minutes cooking the pork chops and delicious gravy. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely! Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to ensure great flavor while cooking.
2. Sear the Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are well browned and almost cooked through. Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Onions:
Lower the heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are softened and translucent—this builds great flavor for the gravy!
4. Add the Garlic:
Mix in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
5. Make the Gravy Base:
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onions and garlic. Stir constantly, cooking the flour for about 1-2 minutes to remove its raw flavor. This will help thicken your gravy.
6. Add the Broth:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, and be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor. Let it simmer for a moment.
7. Flavor the Gravy:
Stir in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme leaves. Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer and let it cook until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
8. Finish the Gravy:
Add the butter to the gravy and stir until melted and smooth. This adds a rich finish to the sauce.
9. Return the Chops:
Place the pork chops back into the skillet, spooning some gravy over them. Cover with a lid and let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This finishing step melds the flavors and ensures the chops are cooked through.
10. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve the pork chops hot, topped with the creamy pan gravy. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley makes for a beautiful garnish. Pair with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies to complete your meal!
Enjoy the tender, juicy pork chops and savor the delicious gravy—perfect for a cozy dinner at home!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just as well. Just be mindful to adjust the cooking time since they may cook a bit faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.
Can I Make the Gravy Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. If using cornstarch, mix 1 tablespoon with a little cold water to make a slurry and add it to the gravy during the simmering step for thickening.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops and gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the gravy.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With This Dish?
This dish is delicious with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the gravy. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal!