Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a flavorful, healthy meal that's ready in minutes? Look no further! This broiled pork chop recipe is your answer. It's incredibly easy, requiring minimal cleanup, and delivers juicy, perfectly cooked pork chops every time. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple yet satisfying recipe, perfect for busy individuals and families alike. This recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals that don't compromise on flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your broiler to high. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup—a tip for all those who love homemade cooking but hate the scrubbing!
Prepare the pork chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a beautiful sear. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture generously all over both sides of the pork chops.
Broil to perfection: Place the pork chops on the prepared baking sheet. Broil for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning—broilers can be intense! Use a meat thermometer for accuracy; it's the best way to guarantee perfectly cooked pork chops every time.
Add a touch of zing (optional): For extra flavor, drizzle the cooked pork chops with lemon juice.
Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, easy homemade meal!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the pork chops to allow for even broiling. If necessary, broil them in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your pork chops are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Let them rest: Allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes after broiling before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your pork chops and the intensity of your broiler.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice rub for a little heat.
- Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
- Sweet and savory: Try adding a teaspoon of brown sugar to the spice rub for a sweet and savory flavor profile.
- Garlic lovers: Add a few minced cloves of fresh garlic to the spice rub for an extra garlicky punch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This broiled pork chop recipe is a testament to how delicious and easy healthy meals can be. It's the perfect addition to your collection of best recipes, providing a quick and satisfying dinner solution that the whole family will love. Enjoy!