Craving a pork chop that’s tender, juicy, and packed with flavor? This Juicy Skillet Pork Chops recipe delivers just that in 45 minutes, with a golden sear and a luscious pan sauce that elevates every bite. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, these chops use a simple spice rub and a skillet to lock in moisture and taste. With minimal fuss and maximum payoff, this Juicy Skillet Pork Chops recipe is your go-to for a satisfying meal for four.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Juicy Results: Resting and precise cooking keep these Juicy Skillet Pork Chops moist.
- Quick Prep: Ready in under an hour, start to finish.
- Bold Spices: Chili powder and smoked paprika add a smoky kick.
- Pan Sauce Magic: A sweet-tangy finish ties it all together.
- Healthy Option: Lean protein with minimal oil.
Tools Needed
To whip up these Juicy Skillet Pork Chops, you’ll need a few essentials. Want to upgrade your kitchen gear? Visit Our Shop at for top-quality tools! Here’s what you’ll need and why:
- Skillet with Lid: Sears and cooks chops evenly for your Juicy Skillet Pork Chops.
- Tongs: Flips chops and sears fat edges easily.
- Instant-Read Thermometer: Ensures perfect doneness at 145°F.
- Wooden Spoon: Scrapes up flavorful bits for the sauce.
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops
- 4 pork chops (6 ounces each, 1-inch thick)
- Salt, to taste (about 1 teaspoon total)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or vegetable oil
For the Pan Sauce
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
- Season Pork: Remove 4 pork chops from the fridge, season both sides with salt (less than ¼ teaspoon per chop), and rest for 30 minutes.
- Make Spice Rub: In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon flour, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
- Coat Chops: Pat chops dry with paper towels, then rub both sides with the spice mix.
- Sear Chops: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet over medium-high until shimmery. Sear chops 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Sear the fat edge for 30 seconds if thick.
- Cook Through: Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook 6-12 minutes until 145°F internally (check at 5 minutes, then every 2 minutes). Rest chops on a foil-covered plate for 5 minutes.
- Make Sauce: Increase heat to medium-high. Add 1 cup chicken stock, 1 tablespoon vinegar, and 2 teaspoons honey. Simmer until reduced by half, scraping up bits. Off heat, swirl in 1 tablespoon butter.
- Serve: Return chops to the pan, spoon sauce over, and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons parsley if using. Serve your Juicy Skillet Pork Chops hot.
Expert Tips For Perfect Juicy Skillet Pork Chops
- Rest First: 30 minutes at room temp ensures juiciness in this Juicy Skillet Pork Chops recipe.
- Dry Well: Moisture prevents browning—pat thoroughly.
- Check Early: Avoid overcooking by testing at 5 minutes.
- Sauce Balance: Adjust vinegar or honey to taste.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping Rest: Cold chops cook unevenly in your Juicy Skillet Pork Chops.
- High Heat Too Long: Burns the outside before the inside cooks—lower after searing.
- No Thermometer: Guessing doneness risks dry meat.
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add cayenne to the rub.
- Herb Swap: Use thyme instead of parsley.
- Citrus Zing: Swap vinegar for lemon juice in the sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Omit flour or use cornstarch.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover Juicy Skillet Pork Chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of stock—microwaving works but may dry them out. Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight and reheat gently.
FAQs
1. What’s the best pork chop for Juicy Skillet Pork Chops?
Bone-in, 1-inch thick chops (like rib or center-cut) work best.
2. Can I skip the sauce?
Yes, the chops are flavorful alone, but sauce adds extra juiciness.
3. What sides pair with Juicy Skillet Pork Chops?
Mashed potatoes, green beans, or a salad complement well.
4. How do I know they’re done?
145°F (63°C) internally or clear juices when cut.
5. Can I use thin chops?
Yes, reduce cook time to 4-6 minutes total for your Juicy Skillet Pork Chops.
6. Is this kid-friendly?
Absolutely—mild spices make it a hit with kids.
Conclusion
These Juicy Skillet Pork Chops are a tender, flavorful win—quick to prep and bursting with smoky, savory goodness. Perfect for a busy night or a cozy meal, they bring comfort with every juicy bite. Heat your skillet, season those chops, and savor this Juicy Skillet Pork Chops recipe tonight—it’s a simple classic done right!
