One‑Pan Pork Chop Recipe That’s Juicy Every Time
Introduction
A perfect pork chop offers tender meat with a golden crust and moisture locked inside. Achieving that balance is easier than many think. One‑pan cooking locks in flavor and keeps the process simple. Minimal cleanup makes the dish practical for busy nights or relaxed weekends. When seasoned well and seared properly, pork chops rival even the finest restaurant fare. They pair well with sauces, sides, or stand tall on their own. Juiciness comes from cooking at the right temperature and resting the meat afterward. Home cooks appreciate how adaptable this recipe is. You can change herbs, sauces, or sides to suit the season. You learn here how to master pork chops without fuss. With only one pan and basic pantry staples, this recipe delivers juicy results every time.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a table with all ingredients and calorie counts for a recipe serving four:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Bone‑in pork chops (1 inch thick) | 4 chops (about 2 pounds) | 1480 |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | 240 |
| Garlic cloves (minced) | 4 cloves | 16 |
| Fresh rosemary (chopped) | 1 tablespoon | 2 |
| Fresh thyme leaves | 1 tablespoon | 1 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | 0 |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | 1 |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons | 200 |
| Chicken broth or white wine | 1/2 cup | 10 |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | 4 |
Total estimated calories: 1954
Calories per serving: Approximately 489
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Step‑by‑Step Cooking Instructions
- Prep the pork chops
Pat chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme. Press the seasoning into the meat so it adheres well. - Heat the pan
Place a large oven‑safe skillet over medium‑high heat. Add olive oil. Wait until it stands still on the surface before adding pork so it heats evenly. - Sear the chops
Lay chops in the pan, leaving space between each piece. Avoid crowding to maintain the sear. Cook 4 to 5 minutes on the first side until the crust forms. Flip and sear the other side for 3 minutes. - Add garlic and butter
Push chops aside and add butter and minced garlic. Stir the butter until it melts and gets fragrant. Spoon the butter and garlic over the chops to coat the crust. - Deglaze the pan
Pour in broth or wine to loosen browned bits on the bottom. Let it bubble for about a minute while scraping gently. That liquid becomes the base of a simple pan sauce. - Finish in the oven
Transfer skillet to a 400 degree Fahrenheit oven. Bake 8 to 10 minutes until chops reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Juiciness remains when internal temperature stays between 145 and 150. - Rest before serving
Take skillet from oven and remove chops to a cutting board. Let them rest 5 to 10 minutes. Cover loosely with foil. Resting allows juices to redistribute.
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Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Use bone‑in or boneless
Boneless chops cook faster and are easier to slice. Bone‑in chops have extra flavor and stay juicier. Adjust cooking time accordingly. - Change up seasonings
Try smoked paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoning. Herbs enhance flavor and aroma. - Make it citrusy
Add orange or lime juice in the pan sauce for brightness. Zest can be added too. - Add aromatics
Include sliced onions or mushrooms during searing. They cook in the same pan and soak up flavor. - Go for a honey glaze
Stir in a teaspoon of honey with broth in the skillet. It caramelizes slightly in the oven and creates a sticky crust. - Make it creamy
Remove chops after cooking. Stir cream or sour cream into pan liquids and heat gently to make a sauce. - Keep it gluten‑free
All ingredients fit a gluten‑free diet. Double‑check broth or wine labels. - Scale easily
Cook in batches or use a roasting pan. Adjust broth volume to prevent dryness.
Nutritional Information
Here is an estimated breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 489 |
| Protein | 45 grams |
| Fat | 31 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 10 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 2 grams |
| Fiber | 0 grams |
| Sugars | 0 grams |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
Calculations are estimates. Choosing leaner cuts or adjusting butter reduces fat and calories.
Serving Suggestions
These juicy pork chops shine alongside many sides. Try roasted baby potatoes tossed in olive oil and herbs. A crisp green salad with citrus dressing balances richness. Steamed broccoli or green beans offer color and nutrients. For comfort, pair with creamy mashed potatoes. Fancy it up with a scoop of mashed sweet potato or wild rice pilaf. Warm bread proves useful for saucy bites. Choose white wine, cider, or sparkling water to drink. For a family style meal serve with mixed vegetables and a light grain. Leftovers taste great in sandwiches or sliced over pasta.
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Conclusion
A juicy pork chop does not have to be complicated. One pan and smart seasoning deliver restaurant quality at home. Following simple steps—sear, baste, deglaze, bake, and rest—gives consistent results. The natural juices stay locked in, and the pan sauce brings extra flavor. Customizing spices or sauces lets you tailor the dish any night of the week. From casual family dinner to date night at home, this method impresses every time. Next time you want a meal that feels special yet simple, try this pork chop recipe and enjoy tender results you can rely on.