These juicy skillet pork chops are cooked to perfection, and the pan gravy is the star of the show! Made with simple ingredients, it’s a meal that’s as tasty as it is easy to whip up.
I love how the gravy soaks into the chops and makes everything extra delicious. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleaning up for me. Who doesn’t love that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use bone-in for more flavor, or boneless for convenience. If you can’t find pork, chicken breasts or thighs work well in this recipe as a substitute.
Olive Oil: I prefer olive oil because of its delicious taste. However, any vegetable oil or canola oil can work fine too. If you’re looking for a healthier option, feel free to use avocado oil.
Onion: A small onion adds flavor depth. If you’re short on time, use shallots or even scallions. They add a good flavor too! For a milder taste, you can skip the onion and use onion powder.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth is my choice to control salt levels. If you need a substitute, vegetable broth or water can also work, though the flavor won’t be as rich.
How Do I Get the Perfect Sear on My Pork Chops?
Getting that golden crust on pork chops is key for flavor! Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure the pork chops are dry before seasoning. Moisture keeps them from browning.
- Heat the skillet until it’s hot before adding oil; this ensures a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; sear in batches if necessary. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam instead of sear.
- Once you place the chops in the skillet, resist the urge to move them around for at least 4-5 minutes. Flip only once for that nice crust.
Perfectly seared pork chops mean more flavor and a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the gravy!
How to Make Skillet Pork Chops with Pan Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Pan Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Optional: fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You can expect about 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking, including the time needed to make the gravy. It’s a quick and delicious dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Begin by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will help enhance the flavor and create a tasty crust when cooking.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown crust. Check that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside to rest.
3. Make the Gravy:
Lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Let it melt, then toss in the finely chopped onion. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. After that, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
4. Thicken the Gravy:
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring continuously for about 1 minute to make a roux. This will help thicken the gravy. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking to keep the mixture smooth and free from lumps.
5. Simmer and Add Thyme:
Add the fresh thyme leaves and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Continue cooking and stirring occasionally until the gravy thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Don’t worry; it will smell amazing!
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon some of that delicious gravy over the top. Allow them to warm through for about 1-2 minutes. Serve the pork chops hot, generously topped with the pan gravy, and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if you like.
Enjoy your perfectly seared pork chops with rich, savory pan gravy! This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat?
Yes! While this recipe is specifically for pork chops, you can easily substitute with chicken breasts or thighs. Just be sure to adjust cooking times according to the thickness of the meat.
Can I Make the Gravy in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the gravy a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove before serving, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
What Should I Do If My Gravy Is Too Thick?
If your gravy turns out too thick, simply whisk in a bit more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Heat it through after adjusting.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a bit of broth to loosen the gravy if needed.
