Are you tired of complicated recipes that take forever to prepare? Do you crave a delicious and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe for thin center cut pork chops is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's quick, easy, and delivers incredibly flavorful results, proving that homemade cooking can be both simple and satisfying. This is one of those best recipes that even beginner cooks can master, resulting in a delicious dish the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 thin center cut pork chops (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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Sear the Pork Chops: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for best results.
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Deglaze the Pan: Pour the chicken broth (or white wine) into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This adds incredible flavor to your sauce.
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Simmer and Finish: Reduce the heat to medium-low, add the butter, and simmer for another 3-5 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked properly.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve immediately. These pork chops are fantastic on their own, or you can serve them with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork Chops:
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and result in steaming instead of searing, leading to less flavorful pork chops.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your pork chops are cooked to a safe internal temperature without overcooking them.
- Let the Pork Chops Rest: Allowing the pork chops to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.
Variations:
- Add Some Spice: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage.
- Creamy Sauce: Stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Lemon & Garlic: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and some minced fresh garlic during the simmering stage for a zesty twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This easy recipe for thin center cut pork chops is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. It's a delicious, healthy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights and a great example of how simple homemade cooking can be. Enjoy!