Are you craving a delicious and satisfying meal but short on time? Look no further! These thin sliced pork chops are the perfect solution for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. This easy recipe delivers juicy, flavorful pork chops every time, even for beginner cooks. It's a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can be both simple and incredibly rewarding. Get ready to enjoy a truly delicious dish that's ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 4 thin-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 paprika
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely.
- Season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Cook the Pork Chops:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the skillet. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Create a Delicious Sauce:
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the chicken broth (or white wine) and butter to the skillet. Scrape the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits.
- Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Return the pork chops to the skillet and coat them with the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork Chops:
- Don't Overcook: Thin-cut pork chops cook quickly. Overcooking will result in dry, tough meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Let it Rest: Allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. Italian seasoning, onion powder, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper would be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Creamy Mushroom Sauce: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the chicken broth and butter for a richer, more flavorful sauce.
- Apple Cider Pork Chops: Substitute apple cider for the chicken broth and add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a sweet and savory twist.
- Garlic and Herb Butter: Mix minced garlic and your favorite herbs into the butter before adding it to the skillet.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This recipe for thin sliced pork chops is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights, and a delicious example of the benefits of homemade cooking. Enjoy!