Thick Cut Pork Chops are a hearty, satisfying dish that can easily become the star of your dinner table. Juicy and tender, these chops are seared to perfection and finished in the oven, ensuring they are cooked through while retaining their moisture. This recipe results in pork chops that are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely adore this thick cut pork chop recipe for its rich, savory flavor and straightforward cooking method. The combination of a simple marinade and a perfect sear creates a delectable crust while locking in juices, resulting in a pork chop that is both flavorful and succulent. Whether you’re a busy parent, a novice cook, or someone looking to impress guests, this dish fits seamlessly into any lifestyle. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it versatile for any dining occasion.
Tips and Tricks
- Choose the Right Cut: Look for bone-in pork chops that are at least 1.5 inches thick for optimal flavor and juiciness.
- Marinating Time: For maximum flavor, marinate your pork chops for at least 2 hours or overnight if possible.
- Sear First: Start with a hot skillet to get a nice crust. A cast iron skillet is ideal for even heat distribution.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F for perfect doneness.
- Resting Period: Let the pork chops rest for at least 5 minutes post-cooking to allow juices to redistribute.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking: Thick cut pork chops can easily become dry if overcooked. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Skipping the Rest: Don’t skip the resting period after cooking; this is crucial for juicy chops.
- Not Marinating: Marinating adds depth of flavor; skipping this step may lead to bland pork.
- Using Low-Quality Meat: Choose high-quality pork for the best flavor and texture.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the pork chops a day in advance, allowing the flavors to develop. Additionally, you can prep your sides ahead of time, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, which can be reheated while the chops cook. The marinated chops will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Recipe Variations
- Herb Crust: Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for a fragrant twist.
- BBQ Glaze: Brush the chops with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for a smoky flavor.
- Different Cooking Methods: These pork chops can also be grilled or baked if you prefer a different cooking method.
How to Serve
Serve your thick cut pork chops on a warm platter, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color. Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or a fresh salad. For added flair, drizzle a balsamic reduction or apple chutney over the chops before serving.
Pairing Suggestions
A robust red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or a fruity Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with pork. If you prefer cocktails, a classic whiskey sour or apple cider mule complements the dish nicely. For side dishes, consider serving with roasted seasonal vegetables or a crunchy coleslaw to balance the richness of the pork.
How to Store
Leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the chops in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, or on a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to keep them moist.
Equipment Needed
- Cast iron skillet (or any oven-safe skillet)
- Meat thermometer
- Ziplock bag or shallow dish for marinating
- Tongs for flipping the pork chops
Dietary Adaptations
For a dairy-free option, simply omit any butter used in the cooking process. If avoiding gluten, ensure your marinade ingredients are gluten-free. For a vegan adaptation, consider using thick slices of eggplant or cauliflower steaks marinated and cooked in a similar fashion.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the autumn, add apple slices to the skillet while cooking for a sweet, seasonal touch. In the summer, fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can brighten the dish, while in winter, root vegetables can be roasted alongside the pork for a heartier meal.
Cost Breakdown
The estimated cost per serving for this thick cut pork chop recipe is approximately $4-6, depending on the quality of the pork chops and additional ingredients. For a budget-friendly version, you can substitute the pork with chicken thighs or other less expensive cuts.
Kitchen Hacks
- To quickly marinate the pork, poke holes in the meat with a fork to help the marinade penetrate deeper.
- Use a microwave-safe bowl to quickly soften butter if needed for a marinade or glaze.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use boneless pork chops? Yes, but reduce the cooking time slightly as they will cook faster.
- What can I substitute for the marinade? You can use any combination of vinegar, oil, and spices that you prefer.
- How can I tell if my pork is cooked? A meat thermometer should read 145°F in the thickest part of the chop.
Thick Cut Pork Chop
Thick Cut Pork Chops are a hearty, satisfying dish that can easily become the star of your dinner table. Juicy and tender, these chops are seared to perfection and finished in the oven, ensuring they are cooked through while retaining their moisture.
Ingredients
- 4 thick cut pork chops (1.5 inches thick)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Place the pork chops in a ziplock bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Sear the Pork Chops: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork chops from the marinade and let excess marinade drip off. Sear the chops in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Bake the Pork Chops: Once seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Rest the Chops: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Plate the pork chops and garnish as desired.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 458Total Fat 31gSaturated Fat 7gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 20gCholesterol 132mgSodium 700mgCarbohydrates 2gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 41g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
With this thick cut pork chop recipe, you’ll impress your family and friends while enjoying a delicious meal that’s easy to prepare. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to delight, making this dish a go-to for any occasion. So grab those thick cut chops, marinate them, and get ready to savor every bite!
