Skillet Pepper and Garlic Pork Chops: A Flavorful Weeknight Delight

Craving a delicious and satisfying meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare? Look no further than these Skillet Pepper and Garlic Pork Chops! This recipe delivers tender, juicy pork chops bursting with bold flavors, all cooked in a single skillet for easy cleanup. The combination of aromatic garlic, freshly ground pepper, and a touch of herbs creates a savory crust that seals in the juices and elevates this simple dish to gourmet status.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, but it’s also elegant enough to serve to guests. The versatility of pork chops allows you to pair them with a variety of sides, from creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables to a light and refreshing salad. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make skillet pork chop recipe!

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Quick and Easy:** Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
* **Flavorful:** The combination of garlic, pepper, and herbs creates a delicious and savory crust.
* **One-Pan Meal:** Cooked in a single skillet for easy cleanup.
* **Versatile:** Pairs well with a variety of sides.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Pork chops are an affordable protein option.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Pork Chops:** Use bone-in or boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick. Bone-in chops tend to be more flavorful, but boneless chops cook more quickly.
* **Garlic:** Fresh garlic is essential for the best flavor. Mince it finely for even distribution.
* **Black Pepper:** Freshly ground black pepper is key to the flavor profile. Use a coarse grind for a bolder taste.
* **Olive Oil:** Use a good-quality olive oil for sautéing the garlic and searing the pork chops.
* **Butter:** Adds richness and helps create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
* **Fresh Herbs (Optional):** Thyme, rosemary, or oregano add a touch of freshness and enhance the overall flavor. Fresh parsley for garnish also works great.
* **Salt:** Enhances the flavor of all the ingredients.
* **Paprika (Optional):** Adds a touch of color and smoky flavor. Smoked paprika will amplify this characteristic.
* **Chicken Broth (Optional):** Can be used to create a pan sauce, adding moisture and depth of flavor.

**Detailed Ingredient List:**

* 4 (6-8 ounce) pork chops, about 1 inch thick
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 2 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
* 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
* 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for pan sauce)
* Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Large Skillet:** A cast-iron skillet is ideal for even heating and creating a beautiful sear, but any large skillet will work.
* **Meat Thermometer:** Ensures the pork chops are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
* **Tongs:** For flipping the pork chops.
* **Small Bowl:** For mixing the spices.
* **Cutting Board:** For prepping ingredients.
* **Knife:** For chopping garlic and herbs.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create perfectly cooked and flavorful Skillet Pepper and Garlic Pork Chops:

**1. Prepare the Pork Chops:**

* Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them to sear properly and develop a nice crust. Moisture is the enemy of searing.
* In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix well.
* Generously rub the spice mixture all over both sides of the pork chops. Make sure to coat them evenly.

**2. Sear the Pork Chops:**

* Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The skillet should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles and evaporates quickly. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
* Carefully place the pork chops in the hot skillet, ensuring they aren’t touching. This is crucial for proper searing.
* Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they develop a rich golden-brown crust. Resist the urge to move them around too much; let them sear undisturbed.

**3. Add Garlic and Herbs:**

* Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and thyme (if using) to the skillet around the pork chops.
* Cook for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Burnt garlic is bitter and will ruin the flavor of the dish. You may need to remove the skillet from the heat briefly if the garlic is browning too quickly.

**4. Finish Cooking the Pork Chops:**

* Continue cooking the pork chops for another 3-5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through but still juicy. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chop, avoiding the bone.
* If the pork chops are browning too quickly, you can lower the heat further or add a tablespoon of butter to the pan.

**5. Make the Pan Sauce (Optional):**

* If you want to make a pan sauce, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside to rest on a plate covered loosely with foil. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.
* Add the chicken broth to the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These browned bits are full of flavor and will add depth to the sauce.
* Bring the broth to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it has slightly reduced and thickened. The sauce should be slightly syrupy.
* Stir in a tablespoon of butter for added richness (optional).

**6. Serve:**

* Pour the pan sauce (if using) over the pork chops.
* Garnish with fresh parsley.
* Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

## Tips for Perfect Skillet Pork Chops

* **Choose the Right Pork Chops:** Look for pork chops that are about 1 inch thick and have good marbling (flecks of fat). This will ensure they stay juicy and flavorful. Avoid extremely lean chops, as they tend to dry out easily.
* **Don’t Overcook:** Overcooked pork chops are dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and let them rest before slicing.
* **Sear Properly:** Searing the pork chops creates a delicious crust and seals in the juices. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chops and don’t overcrowd the pan.
* **Don’t Burn the Garlic:** Burnt garlic is bitter and will ruin the flavor of the dish. Keep a close eye on the garlic and reduce the heat if it starts to brown too quickly.
* **Rest the Pork Chops:** Letting the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop. Cover them loosely with foil while they rest.
* **Adjust Seasoning to Taste:** Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking. Taste the pan sauce (if making) and adjust the seasoning as needed.

## Serving Suggestions

These Skillet Pepper and Garlic Pork Chops pair well with a variety of sides, including:

* **Mashed Potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with pork chops.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots are healthy and flavorful options.
* **Green Beans:** Steamed or sautéed green beans provide a fresh and vibrant contrast to the richness of the pork chops.
* **Salad:** A light and refreshing salad is a great way to balance the meal.
* **Rice:** Fluffy rice is a simple and satisfying side dish.
* **Quinoa:** A healthy and protein-packed alternative to rice.
* **Cauliflower Mash:** A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.
* **Apple Sauce:** The sweetness of applesauce complements the savory flavors of the pork chops.

## Variations

* **Add Dijon Mustard:** Brush the pork chops with Dijon mustard before searing for a tangy flavor.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, oregano, or sage.
* **Add Wine:** Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine after searing the pork chops for a richer sauce.
* **Add Mushrooms:** Sauté sliced mushrooms in the skillet after searing the pork chops for an earthy flavor.
* **Creamy Garlic Sauce:** For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream to the pan sauce at the end.
* **Spicy Pork Chops:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spice mixture for a spicy kick.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)

* Calories: 350-450
* Protein: 40-50g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 5-10g

*Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.*

## Storage and Reheating Instructions

* **Storage:** Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the pork chops in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent them from drying out. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

## Make Ahead Tips

* You can prepare the spice mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container.
* You can also pat the pork chops dry and season them with the spice mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**Q: Can I use frozen pork chops?**

A: Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.

**Q: Can I use a different type of oil?**

A: Yes, you can use any cooking oil with a high smoke point, such as canola oil or vegetable oil.

**Q: How do I know when the pork chops are done?**

A: The best way to ensure the pork chops are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

**Q: Can I make this recipe in the oven?**

A: Yes, you can sear the pork chops in a skillet and then transfer them to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) to finish cooking. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

**Q: Can I double this recipe?**

A: Yes, you can easily double this recipe to feed a larger crowd. You may need to cook the pork chops in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.

**Q: What if I don’t have fresh thyme?**

A: You can use dried thyme instead. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried thyme for every tablespoon of fresh thyme.

Enjoy these delicious and easy Skillet Pepper and Garlic Pork Chops! They’re sure to become a family favorite.