Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make recipe for dinner tonight? Look no further than these pan-fried pork chops with herb butter! With juicy pork chops and a crispy, herb-infused crust, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is versatile, quick to make, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, you’ll love the simplicity and deliciousness of this recipe. So grab your skillet and let’s get cooking!
The Best Bake Pan Fried Pork Chops with Herb Butter
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops 1-inch thick
- kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper To taste, don’t be afraid to season the meat!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Prepare the ingredients.
- Season the pork chops generously on both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot and add the pork chops when the oil is hot to get a good sear on the meat.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side for bone in or 2-3 minutes per side for boneless, until browned and crispy on the outside.
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and transfer them to a baking dish or plate if you will be reusing the skillet for baking the pork in the oven.
- In the same skillet, add the butter, garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Pour the butter and herb mixture over the pork chops in the baking dish. If baking with the skillet, add the pork chops back into the skillet and cover with the butter garlic mixture.
- Bake the pork chops in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use bone-in pork chops: Bone-in pork chops tend to be more flavorful and juicy than boneless chops. Plus, the bone helps the meat cook more evenly.
- Let the pork chops come to room temperature before cooking: This will help them cook more evenly and avoid any cold spots in the middle of the meat.
- Dry the pork chops thoroughly before seasoning: Use paper towels to pat the pork chops dry before seasoning them. This will help them develop a nice crust when you pan-fry them.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Make sure there is enough space between the pork chops in the pan so that they cook evenly and don’t steam. You may need to cook them in batches if your pan is too small.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness: Cook the pork chops until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part. This will ensure that they are safe to eat and not overcooked.
- Let the pork chops rest before serving: Once you’ve finished cooking the pork chops, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the meat more tender.
- Preparing the ingredients and seasoning the pork chops: 5-10 minutes
- Pan-frying the pork chops: 8-10 minutes
- Preparing the herb butter and baking the pork chops: 10-12 minutes
History:
It’s difficult to trace the exact history of pan-fried pork chops with herbed butter, but it is likely that variations of this dish have been enjoyed by cooks for centuries. Pork has been a staple protein in many cultures around the world, and the combination of herbs and butter has been a classic pairing in European cuisine for centuries.
In the United States, pork chops have been a popular dish since the early 20th century. Pan-frying them with butter and herbs was likely a variation of the French technique of sautéing meat with butter and herbs, which was popularized in America by Julia Child in the 1960s.
Regardless of its exact origins, pan-fried pork chops with herbed butter has become a beloved and timeless dish that continues to be enjoyed by home cooks and foodies alike.
Pairing Recommendations:
There are many side dishes that pair well with pan-fried pork chops in herbed butter. Here are some recommendations, including one that uses creamer potatoes:
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, asparagus, and sweet potatoes complement the rich flavor of pork chops and add a pop of color to your plate.
- Creamed Spinach: Creamed spinach is a classic side dish that pairs well with pork chops. The creaminess of the spinach adds a luxurious texture that balances the savory flavor of the meat.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that go well with almost any meat. The creamy, buttery flavor pairs particularly well with pork chops.
- Creamer Potato Salad: For a lighter option, consider serving a creamer potato salad alongside your pork chops. Boil the creamer potatoes until tender, then mix them with a vinaigrette made from olive oil, Dijon mustard, and white wine vinegar. Add some chopped herbs like parsley and chives for extra flavor.
No matter what you choose, be sure to balance the richness of the pork chops with some fresh vegetables or a lighter side dish like the creamer potato salad. This will help create a well-rounded and satisfying meal
Variations:
There are many ways to customize and vary the recipe for pan-fried pork chops with herbed butter. Here are some variations to consider:
- Different herbs: Instead of parsley and thyme, try using other fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or tarragon.
- Different seasonings: Experiment with different spices and seasonings to give your pork chops a unique flavor. For example, you could add a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika to the herb butter.
- Different cuts of pork: While bone-in pork chops are traditional for this recipe, you could also use boneless pork chops or even a pork tenderloin. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Different cooking methods: If you don’t want to pan-fry the pork chops, you could also grill them or bake them in the oven. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.
- Different sauces: Instead of herbed butter, try serving your pork chops with a different sauce. A mushroom cream sauce or a sweet and tangy apple cider sauce would both be delicious options.
- Different sides: Experiment with different side dishes to serve alongside your pork chops. Try roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or a creamy risotto.
With these variations and others, you can make this classic dish your own and enjoy it in many different ways.
Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe for pan-fried pork chops with herb butter provides several nutritional benefits:
- High-quality protein: Pork chops are a rich source of protein, which is important for building and repairing muscle tissue.
- Iron: Pork is also a good source of iron, which is essential for carrying oxygen in the blood and supporting immune function.
- B vitamins: Pork is a good source of several B vitamins, including thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin B12. These vitamins are important for energy production and maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails.
- Antioxidants: Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Healthy fats: The use of olive oil and butter in this recipe provides healthy fats that are important for brain function, hormone production, and supporting a healthy heart.
Overall, this recipe provides a well-rounded balance of macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, and fat) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) that can support overall health and well-being.
Nutritional Breakdown:
Here is the nutritional breakdown for the recipe for pan-fried pork chops:
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, 1-inch thick
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
Nutritional Information per serving (serves 4):
- Calories: 462
- Total Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 127mg
- Sodium: 369mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 1g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 36g
Note: This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used.
Fun Facts:
- Pork chops are a popular cut of meat in many cultures around the world. They can be prepared in a variety of ways, including pan-frying, grilling, and baking.
- In the United States, pork chops are often served with applesauce, a tradition that dates back to colonial times. The combination of savory pork and sweet apples is a classic pairing.
- Pork chops are a good source of protein and other nutrients, including thiamin, niacin, vitamin B6, and zinc. They can be a healthy part of a balanced diet when prepared in moderation.
- Pan-frying is a quick and easy way to cook pork chops. To get a crispy crust on the outside, it’s important to use a hot pan and not overcrowd the chops.
- Pork chops can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices, including rosemary, thyme, garlic, and paprika. The flavors can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
- Leftover pork chops can be used in a variety of dishes, including stir-fries, salads, and sandwiches. The meat is versatile and can add flavor and protein to many different meals.
- Overall, pork chops are a delicious and versatile cut of meat that can be enjoyed in many different ways.
“Pork chops are a great equalizer. You cook them the same way whether you’re rich or poor.”
– – Emeril Lagasse
