Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe for Pan Fried Pork Chops with Pan Sauce. The pork chops are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, and the pan sauce adds a rich, flavorful finish to the dish!
Pan Fried Pork Chops with Pan Sauce Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for extra richness)
For the Pan Sauce:
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, can use more broth if preferred)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for extra tang)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for finishing the sauce)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Pork Chops
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Cook the Pork Chops
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops to the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning while ensuring the pork cooks through.
- Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Let them rest for a few minutes while you make the sauce.
- Make the Pan Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and white wine (if using). Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (this adds flavor to the sauce).
- Stir in the Dijon mustard (if using) and thyme, and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Once reduced, lower the heat and stir in the butter, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve
- Place the pork chops on serving plates, spoon the pan sauce over the top, and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the pork chops with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
- Pair with a simple rice pilaf or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal.
Tips and Variations
- For Extra Flavor: Add a splash of heavy cream to the pan sauce for a creamy texture.
- Add Veggies: You can sauté mushrooms or onions in the pan after cooking the pork chops and before adding the broth to deepen the flavor of the sauce.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce for some heat.