Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! These sirloin cut pork chops are the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, this recipe is easy enough for beginner cooks yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Forget takeout; homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated! Let's dive into this fantastic easy recipe.
Ingredients:
- 4 sirloin cut pork chops (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
Preparing the Pork Chops:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure to season both sides evenly.
Cooking the Pork Chops:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to cook them in batches.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Delicious Sauce:
- Pour off any excess oil from the skillet.
- Add the chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and honey to the skillet.
- Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens.
Serving:
- Return the pork chops to the skillet and coat them with the sauce.
- Serve immediately. These delicious pork chops are fantastic on their own or paired with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the pan and result in steaming instead of searing, leading to less flavorful, less crispy pork chops.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your pork chops are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Let the pork chops rest: Allowing the pork chops to rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.
Variations:
- Apple Cider Glaze: Substitute apple cider for the chicken broth and add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the seasoning.
- Herb-Crusted Chops: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage with the olive oil before cooking.
- Spicy Pork Chops: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 30-35 grams
- Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
This sirloin cut pork chop recipe offers a healthy and delicious meal option perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion. Enjoy the simplicity and the amazing taste! This quick dinner idea is sure to become a staple in your healthy meals rotation. Try it and let us know what you think! We'd love to hear your feedback and see your delicious creations. Remember to share your homemade cooking triumphs on social media!