These juicy pork chops are cooked to perfection and topped with a rich, tasty pan gravy. It’s comfort food that’ll make everyone smile at the dinner table!
I love how the gravy soaks into the chops, making them super flavorful. Plus, it’s a cinch to whip up—you just need one pan! Who doesn’t like an easy cleanup? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor! If you can’t find them, boneless chops work too. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as they may cook faster.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness to the gravy. You could swap it for shallots for a milder flavor or green onions if you’re in a pinch.
Thyme: Fresh thyme brings a lovely aroma. If you only have dried thyme, be sure to use less—about 1/2 teaspoon. Thyme also goes well with rosemary if you want to mix it up.
Chicken Broth: I recommend low sodium broth to control saltiness. If you’re looking for a non-meat option, vegetable broth works just as well!
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
Getting juicy pork chops is all about cooking them right. Here are my tips:
- Start by patting the chops dry—it helps them sear better!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this lets them brown evenly without steaming.
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for an internal temp of 145°F (63°C). Remove them from the heat; they’ll keep cooking a bit after.
- Let the chops rest after cooking. This step helps the juices redistribute, keeping them moist.
By following these insights and tips, you can make flavorful, juicy pork chops that will impress everyone at the table!
Pork Chops with Pan Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or additional thyme leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and 20 minutes cooking. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels fancy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with a paper towel. This step is important for getting a nice sear! Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to add flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Sear them until they are golden brown on each side and just cooked through, which will take about 4-5 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chops from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Gravy:
Now, reduce the heat to medium. In the same pan, add the chopped onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened and fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Add the Flour:
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to create a roux. This will help thicken the gravy. Cook for another minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
5. Create the Gravy:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—these bits are packed with flavor! Stir in the thyme leaves and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it thicken for about 3-5 minutes.
6. Finish the Gravy:
Stir in the butter until it’s melted, giving the gravy a nice glossy finish. This step adds richness to the sauce.
7. Combine and Serve:
Return the pork chops to the pan and spoon some of the gravy over them. Let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes to reheat everything and meld those wonderful flavors together. Serve the pork chops topped with the pan gravy, and don’t forget to garnish with chopped parsley or extra thyme if you like!
This recipe creates tender pork chops accompanied by a savory, slightly herby pan gravy. It’s perfect for pairing with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to make a complete meal that the whole family will enjoy!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops work just fine! Just keep in mind they may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness a couple of minutes earlier than the recipe states.
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No worries! You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or even water, though the flavor will be less rich. Adding a splash of soy sauce can help enhance the flavor if using water.
Can I Make the Gravy Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the gravy ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove before serving, and add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up if it thickens too much.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops and gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain even heating.
