This recipe features boneless thin pork chops that cook up quickly and stay juicy. They are topped with a yummy pan sauce that makes every bite extra special!
Cooking these pork chops is a breeze! I love how the sauce adds so much flavor. Honestly, it turns a simple meal into something that feels fancy without any fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Choose thin boneless pork chops, about 1/2 inch thick. If you can’t find thin ones, just adjust cooking time for thicker chops. You can also use chicken breasts or turkey cutlets for a lighter option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a ton of flavor to the sauce. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works too, but I prefer fresh for the best taste. Try 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder instead of the cloves if needed.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is great, but store-bought works just as well. You can substitute with vegetable broth or even water mixed with bouillon cubes for a different flavor profile.
Dijon Mustard: This adds tanginess to the sauce. If you don’t have it, yellow mustard or even a little vinegar can work as a substitute, but it will alter the final taste slightly.
Thyme: Dried thyme is perfect, but if fresh is available, go for that! You can also substitute with dried rosemary or oregano if you prefer a different herb profile.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
The key to juicy pork chops is not overcooking them. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with pats of pork chops. Drying them helps achieve a good sear.
- Use medium-high heat and let the oil get hot before adding chops. This helps browning.
- Cook for about 3 minutes on each side. Check the internal temperature; it should be 145°F.
If the chops are thicker, increase the cooking time and check frequently. Remove them from the skillet as soon as they’re done. They will cook a little longer in the sauce!
Easy Boneless Thin Pork Chops in Savory Pan Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless thin pork chops (about 1/2 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
For the Pan Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 6-8 cloves garlic, peeled and lightly smashed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 3-4 sprigs fresh thyme)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Optional garnish: fresh thyme sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10-15 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a tasty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear properly. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and dried Italian seasoning. This will add wonderful flavor!
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot, but not smoking. This is crucial for getting those lovely golden brown chops.
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
Add the seasoned pork chops to the hot skillet. Cook them for about 3 minutes on one side until nicely browned, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes on the other side until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove the chops from the skillet and transfer them to a plate.
4. Make the Pan Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the smashed garlic cloves to the same skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This will infuse the oil with amazing garlic flavor.
5. Add Chicken Broth:
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to scrape up any browned bits left on the bottom. Those bits add extra flavor to the sauce!
6. Flavor the Sauce:
Stir in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce slightly for about 4-5 minutes, letting those flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Finish the Sauce:
Stir in the butter until it’s melted, giving the sauce a smooth, glossy finish. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
8. Combine and Heat:
Return the pork chops back to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over each piece. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes to heat through and combine all the flavors.
9. Serve:
Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired and serve immediately alongside your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delicious and savory meal!
This quick and easy recipe produces juicy, tender pork chops complemented perfectly by a rich, garlicky pan sauce studded with fresh herbs. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Thicker Pork Chops?
Yes, you can! If you’re using thicker pork chops (over 1/2 inch), just increase the cooking time. Make sure to check their internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, just be sure to use gluten-free chicken broth and verify that the Dijon mustard is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
What Should I Serve with These Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh garden salad. You could also serve them with roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal!
Can I Make the Sauce Without Garlic?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can simply omit it. The sauce will still be tasty, especially with the Dijon mustard and herbs providing flavor.
