Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly quick weeknight dinner? Look no further! These wafer-thin bone-in pork chops are the perfect solution. Tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs. It’s a testament to how simple, homemade cooking can create truly delicious dishes. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meal game!
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1/4 inch thick (Ask your butcher to slice them wafer-thin for best results!)
- 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 dry white wine
Instructions:
Preparing the Pork Chops:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures a beautiful sear.
- In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Generously season both sides of the pork chops with the spice mixture.
Cooking the Pork Chops:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The pan should be hot before adding the pork chops.
- Carefully place the pork chops in the hot skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to cook them in batches.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until a beautiful golden brown crust forms. Don't rush this step; proper browning adds incredible flavor.
- Pour the chicken broth (or white wine) into the skillet.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Thinner chops cook much faster than thicker ones, so keep a close eye on them.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these delicious pork chops immediately. They are fantastic on their own, or you can pair them with your favorite sides. Roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or creamy mashed potatoes are all excellent choices.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the pan temperature, resulting in steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your pork chops are cooked to perfection.
- Let the pork chops rest: Allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Pork Chops: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or oregano) to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Pork Chops: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice rub for a little kick.
- Garlic Butter Pork Chops: Stir in a tablespoon of butter and a few cloves of minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
This recipe offers a quick and easy approach to a delicious and healthy meal. These wafer-thin bone-in pork chops are a versatile and satisfying option for a busy weeknight dinner, proving that healthy meals and delicious dishes don't have to be complicated. Enjoy!