These easy boneless thin pork chops are super tasty and juicy, thanks to a wonderful pan sauce made right in the same skillet! It’s a quick meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Cooking these chops always makes me feel like a chef! Just sear, add some flavor, and you’re ready to eat. I love serving them with rice to soak up that delicious sauce! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: For this recipe, thin boneless pork chops are best. They’re quick-cooking and absorb the flavor easily. If you can’t find them, go for thin-cut chicken breast or turkey cutlets as a substitute.
Herbs: I love using dried oregano and basil for a classic herb flavor. If you have fresh herbs on hand, use about three times the amount, as they have a stronger flavor!
Chicken Broth: I recommend low-sodium broth to control the saltiness. If you’re vegan, vegetable broth works just as well! Adding a splash of white wine could elevate the sauce too.
Garlic: The garlic in the recipe adds incredible flavor! If you’re a garlic fan, feel free to add more cloves. For a milder flavor, roast the garlic first before adding it to the pan.
How Do I Cook the Pork Chops Perfectly?
Searing pork chops to perfection is all about the technique. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to pat the pork chops dry. This helps achieve a nice golden crust when searing.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain the heat.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time. Thin pork chops only need about 3-4 minutes per side to cook through.
- Let the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain the juices so they don’t dry out when cut.
Easy Boneless Thin Pork Chops in Savory Pan Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless thin pork chops (about 1/2-inch thick)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8-10 cloves garlic, peeled and slightly smashed
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish and flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 15 minutes to cook. In total, you can have this flavorful meal ready in just about 25 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you need something quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry using paper towels. This is important because it helps them get that nice sear. Season both sides with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and garlic powder. Make sure all the delicious herbs are evenly distributed!
2. Sear the Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully add the seasoned pork chops to the hot skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side. They should turn a lovely golden brown and be cooked through. Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Savory Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium, and add the butter to the same skillet. Don’t forget to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom—that’s flavor! Once the butter is melted, toss in the smashed garlic cloves and sauté them for about 1 minute until they’re fragrant but not browned.
4. Combine Broth and Spoon Over Chops:
Next, stir in the chicken broth and Dijon mustard until well combined with the buttery goodness in the pan. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes until it slightly thickens. Now, return the pork chops to the skillet, along with any juices that have collected on the plate. Spoon that delicious sauce over the top of the chops so they get full of flavor!
5. Final Touch and Garnish:
Add the fresh thyme sprigs to the pan for added flavor. Let the pork chops and sauce cook together for another 2 minutes. This melds all the flavors nicely. Once done, remember to remove the thyme sprigs and adjust the seasoning in the sauce with more salt and pepper if desired.
6. Serve Up and Enjoy:
Plate the pork chops and generously spoon that scrumptious garlic pan sauce over the top. These chops are best served with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables to soak up that amazing sauce. Enjoy every bite of your juicy, flavorful pork chops!
FAQ for Easy Boneless Thin Pork Chops in Savory Pan Sauce
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork?
Absolutely! While thin boneless pork chops are great for quick cooking, you can also use thinly sliced pork loin or tenderloin. Just adjust the cooking time as they may take a little longer to cook through.
How Can I Make the Sauce Dairy-Free?
To make the sauce dairy-free, simply omit the butter and use a bit more olive oil instead. You can also stir in a splash of coconut milk or almond milk at the end for a creamy texture without the dairy!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Dijon Mustard?
No worries if you don’t have Dijon mustard! You can substitute it with yellow mustard or even a little soy sauce for a different flavor. Just remember, the taste will slightly vary.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, let them cool and store the pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them gently on the stove with a bit of water or broth to keep them moist.
