Instructions:
Step 1
If using the marinade, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and apple cider vinegar in a bowl. Whisk until everything is well mixed.
Step 2
Place the pork chops into a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 3
Remove the pork chops from the marinade and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Dry pork chops will develop a much better golden crust during cooking.
Step 4
Season both sides of the pork chops with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme. Press the seasonings gently into the meat.
Step 5
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Carefully place the pork chops into the skillet without overcrowding the pan.
Step 6
Cook the pork chops for 4 to 5 minutes on the first side without moving them. This allows a rich golden-brown crust to form.
Step 7
Flip the pork chops and cook the second side for another 4 to 5 minutes. Both sides should be nicely browned before lowering the heat.
Step 8
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. As the butter melts, continuously spoon it over the pork chops for extra flavor and moisture.
Step 9
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops. Continue cooking if necessary until they reach 145°F (63°C).
Step 10
Transfer the cooked pork chops to a plate and loosely cover them with foil. Allow them to rest for 5 minutes before serving so the juices stay inside the meat.
Step 11
While the pork chops rest, spoon any remaining buttery pan juices over the top. This adds even more flavor and keeps the meat moist.
Step 12
Serve the pork chops immediately with your favorite side dishes. Enjoy them while they’re hot, tender, and perfectly juicy.
Tips and Variations:
Choose Thick Pork Chops
Pork chops that are about 1 inch thick cook more evenly and stay much juicier than thinner cuts, making them the best choice for this recipe.
Don’t Skip the Marinade
Although optional, marinating the pork chops for several hours or overnight allows the meat to absorb extra flavor while helping it stay tender during cooking.
Avoid Overcooking
Use a meat thermometer instead of guessing. Cooking the pork chops to exactly 145°F (63°C) keeps them juicy while ensuring they’re fully cooked.
Try Different Herbs
Rosemary, sage, oregano, or Italian seasoning can easily replace thyme to create different flavor profiles while keeping the recipe simple.
Make a Quick Pan Sauce
After removing the pork chops, deglaze the skillet with a splash of chicken broth or white wine and stir in a little butter to create a flavorful sauce for serving.
Add Extra Garlic Flavor
Toss a few whole garlic cloves into the skillet while basting the pork chops with butter. The garlic becomes soft and adds wonderful flavor to the pan juices.
Storage
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to keep the meat moist and tender.
Freeze for Later
Allow the pork chops to cool completely before wrapping them tightly and freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.
