Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This recipe for juicy pork chops paired with a rich and creamy chicken soup is the perfect answer for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. It's a delicious blend of savory pork and a soothing, homemade soup – the best of both worlds! This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to become a family favorite. It's a fantastic example of delicious dishes achievable with homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Creamy Chicken Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Preparing the Pork Chops:
- Season the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Pat them dry with paper towels for better browning.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the pork chops to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Adjust cooking time depending on the thickness of your chops. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Making the Creamy Chicken Soup:
- While the pork chops are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This helps thicken the soup.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, heavy cream, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serving:
Serve the juicy pork chops over a generous portion of the creamy chicken soup. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal. This simple yet satisfying meal is perfect for a comforting dinner.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork Chops and Soup:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When cooking the pork chops, ensure you don't overcrowd the pan. This will lower the temperature and result in steaming rather than browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: Using a meat thermometer guarantees perfectly cooked pork chops every time. Overcooked pork chops are dry, so this is a crucial step for achieving juicy results.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings in both the pork chops and the soup to your liking. A dash of cayenne pepper in the soup adds a delightful kick!
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as potatoes, peas, or green beans.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Pork Chops: Add lemon zest and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the pork chop seasoning.
- Spicy Chicken Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for a spicy twist.
- Creamy Mushroom Soup: Substitute the chicken with sauteed mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on specific ingredients used. Consult a nutrition calculator for precise values. Expect a moderate calorie count, with a good source of protein from the pork and chicken, and vitamins from the vegetables.
This recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a perfect example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. Enjoy this quick dinner idea, and let us know how you liked it!