These boneless pork chops are quick and easy to make, perfect for busy nights! The secret is a tasty pan sauce that adds lots of rich flavor—yum!
I love how the sauce gets made right in the same pan; less mess and more flavor! Serve these chops with some veggies and feel like a kitchen superstar. 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I love using boneless pork chops because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you have bone-in chops, they work too! Just adjust the cooking time slightly. For a leaner option, you can also use turkey cutlets.
Olive Oil: This is great for high-heat cooking. If you’re looking for a different flavor, you can substitute with avocado oil or even butter, but keep in mind butter has a lower smoke point.
Heavy Cream: Cream gives a rich taste, but you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream if you’re looking for lighter options. Coconut cream can also add a unique flavor!
Chicken Broth: For a deeper flavor, homemade broth is perfect. If you’re vegetarian, vegetable broth is a great substitute. Want a bit of flavor kick? Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
How Do You Get Juicy Pork Chops Without Overcooking Them?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky if you’re not careful, but it’s easier than you think! The key is to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
- Pat the pork chops dry; this helps them sear nicely.
- Cook on medium-high heat to get that golden crust. Aim for about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove them when they hit 145°F (63°C)—they’ll still cook a bit while resting.
- Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep the juices in.
Easy Boneless Pork Chops with Savory Pan Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe should take you about 25 minutes in total—10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for cooking. It’s a great quick meal for any weeknight dinner, and it’s sure to impress your family or guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry using paper towels. This step is important because it helps them get a nice, golden crust when cooked. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Sear the chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a plate to rest.
3. Make the Savory Pan Sauce:
Now, lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter. Once it’s melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to let it burn! Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let everything simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Add Cream and Thicken:
Next, stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and fresh thyme. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes, or until it thickens up a bit. This is what gives our sauce that creamy, savory flavor. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Combine and Serve:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning a bit of the sauce over the top. Let them cook for another 1-2 minutes to warm through and soak up some of that sauce flavor. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like.
Enjoy your flavorful, juicy pork chops with the irresistible savory pan sauce! These pair perfectly with your choice of sides, such as roasted veggies or mashed potatoes.
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will add even more flavor, but they may require a minute or two of extra cooking time. Just ensure they also reach the internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
If you want to lighten the dish, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or try using a plant-based cream alternative. You can also reduce the amount of butter or substitute it for a bit of olive oil.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Sauce?
Definitely! Adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even bell peppers can enhance both flavor and nutrition. Just add them after cooking the garlic and before adding the broth to ensure they’re properly cooked.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork chops in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to the pan to keep them moist.
