Print

Crispy Garlic Herb Pork Chops

crispy garlic herb pork chops - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for juicy, tender pork chops with a crispy garlic and herb crust, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick, preferably center-cut)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • Optional: lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and oregano until combined.
  3. Rub the garlic herb mixture all over the pork chops, coating each side thoroughly. Let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Heat a cast iron pan over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes until hot and lightly smoking.
  5. Add the pork chops to the hot skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes without moving to develop a golden crust.
  6. Flip the chops using tongs. Immediately add butter to the pan and spoon the melted butter over the chops as they finish cooking.
  7. Continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes depending on thickness, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  8. Remove pork chops from the skillet and let rest on a plate or wire rack for 5 minutes.
  9. Optionally squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chops before serving.

Notes

Pat pork chops dry before seasoning to ensure crispiness. Use a hot skillet and avoid overcrowding to get a golden crust. Rest chops after cooking to keep them juicy. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Butter basting adds richness and moisture. Fresh herbs enhance flavor but dried herbs work well too. Adjust cooking time for boneless chops.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork chops, garlic herb pork chops, crispy pork chops, easy pork chops, juicy pork chops, weeknight dinner, comfort food