To create a delicious dinner with thin pork chops, start by seasoning them with salt and pepper, along with some garlic powder for added flavor. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a touch of oil. When the skillet is hot, add the pork chops in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. This will allow you to see them perfectly. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F for boneless thin pork chops, ensuring they remain tender and juicy. Avoid the temptation to overcook them, as sliced pork chops can dry out quickly. Once done, let the chops rest for a few minutes before serving.
For a complete meal, consider pairing the thinly sliced pork with mashed potatoes and your favorite vegetable. If you prefer, you can also try baked pork chops or garlic pork chops as variations. For a heartier option, use bone-in pork chops or rib chops, but keep in mind that bone-in cuts may require a slightly longer cooking time. Following the recipe precisely will help ensure that your pork chops are cooked to perfection, providing a satisfying and tender pork experience that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients for Thin Cut Pork Chop Recipe
- 4 thin-cut pork chops (about 1/4 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Equipment & Tools Required
- Large skillet (preferably cast iron)
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Small bowl (for mixing spices)
- Plate (for resting cooked pork chops)
Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
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How to Cook Thin Pork Chops Recipe
How to prepare thin pork chops, you’ll want to focus on proper seasoning, tenderizing if necessary, and getting ready to cook them quickly to retain their juiciness. Here’s how to prepare them:
Step-01: Begin by Preparing the Pork Chops: Lay out the thin-cut pork chops on a clean surface and gently pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a perfect sear. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your fingers to evenly rub this aromatic spice mixture over both sides of each pork chop, ensuring every inch is well-seasoned.
Step-02: Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet on the stovetop and drizzle in the olive oil. Set the heat to medium-high, allowing the oil to shimmer and become fragrant. The oil should be hot but do not smoke it before you add the pork chops. This ensures a beautiful, golden-brown crust forms when the meat hits the pan.
Step-03: Sear the Pork Chops: Gently lay the seasoned pork chops into the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when the edges start to brown, and the meat releases easily from the pan. Once flipped, cook for another 2-3 minutes until both sides are golden and the internal temperature reads 145°F (63°C). The thinness of the chops allows them to cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Step-04: Rest the Meat: Once the pork chops are perfectly seared, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate. Allow the chops to rest for 3-5 minutes. During this time, the juices drawn toward the center during cooking will redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
Step-05: Finish with Fresh Herbs (Optional): While the pork chops rest, you may want to add a final touch by tossing a few sprigs of fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, into the still-hot skillet. Let them sizzle for a few seconds, releasing their fragrant oils. Spoon this herb-infused oil over the resting pork chops for an extra layer of flavor.
Step-06: Serve with a Citrus Twist: Before serving, consider squeezing a fresh lemon wedge over the pork chops. The bright acidity of the lemon will complement the rich flavors of the seared meat. Plate your pork chops alongside your favorite side dishes, and enjoy the delicious result of your efforts.
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Serving Ideas for Thin Cut Pork Chops
- With Vegetables: Serve Thin Cut Pork Chops with roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots. The vegetables can be seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roasted in the oven while you cook the pork chops.
- Over Rice or Quinoa: Plate the pork chops over a bed of rice or quinoa. For added flavor, flavor the rice or quinoa with herbs or a bit of butter.
- With a Salad: Pair the pork chops with a fresh, crisp salad. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing or a more elaborate salad with nuts, fruits, and cheese can complement the pork chops nicely.
- With Mashed Potatoes: Serve the pork chops with creamy mashed potatoes—the richness of the mashed potatoes pairs well with the savory pork chops.
- With a Pan Sauce: After cooking the pork chops, deglaze the skillet with a bit of chicken broth or white wine, and add a splash of cream and some herbs to make a quick pan sauce. Pour the sauce over the pork chops before serving.
Tips For Making Pan Fried Boneless Pork Chops
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Ensure that skinny pork chop recipes have enough space in the skillet. Overcrowding can cause the chops to steam rather than sear, resulting in less flavorful and crispy chops.
- Let the Pork Chops Rest: After cooking, let thin cut pork chop rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making the chops juicier.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Using a meat thermometer ensures that your pork chops are cooked to the correct internal temperature (145°F or 63°C) without overcooking. Overcooked pork can be dry and tough.
- Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add cayenne pepper for heat, or swap the thyme and rosemary for other herbs like oregano or basil.
- Try a Marinade: Marinate the pork chops for a few hours or overnight in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for extra flavor. This can add depth of flavor to your dish.
- Butter Basting: Add a knob of butter to the pan during the last minute of cooking and spoon the melted butter over the chops. This adds richness and enhances the flavor.
FAQ On Easy Thin Pork Chop Recipes
1. How do I prevent thin cut pork chops from drying out?
Avoid overcooking. Thin-cut pork chops cook very quickly, so keep a close eye on them and use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Also, let the pork chops rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
2. Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chop thin cut recipes. They may require a slightly longer cooking time, but the bone can add extra flavor.
3. How can I add more flavor to Thin Cut Pork Chops?
Marinating the pork chops for a few hours or overnight in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs can add extra flavor. Basting it with butter at the last minute of cooking enhances the taste.
4. What type of skillet should I use?
A cast iron skillet is ideal for cooking pork chops because it retains heat well and provides a nice sear. However, a stainless steel or non-stick skillet can also be used.
5. Can I cook the recipe thin cut pork chops stove top?
Yes, you can bake pork chops thin in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. What side dishes go well with thin cut pork chops?
Thin-cut pork chops pair well with various sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
7. Can I freeze cooked pork chops?
Yes, you can freeze cooked pork chops. Let them cool completely, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
8. Can You Fry Thin Cut Pork Chops?
Yes, you can fry pork chops thin. In fact, frying is one of the best methods for cooking them quickly while achieving a crispy exterior. Thin-cut pork chops cook faster than thicker ones, making them ideal for pan-frying.
9. Thin Cut Pork Chop Calories?
The calories in a thin-cut pork chop (approximately 3 oz.) can vary based on preparation but are generally around 150-180 calories. This number can increase depending on the cooking method (e.g., frying) and added ingredients like oil or butter.
10. What other seasonings can I use for pork chops?
You can experiment with different seasonings such as cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, or a spice blend like Cajun or Italian seasoning. Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste preferences.
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