How to Pan Sear Pork Chops and Finish them in the Oven
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Tender pork chops are seared in a hot pan on top of the stove, then transferred to the oven for a delicious meal that takes minimal effort. Learn how to pan sear pork chops and finish in the oven to achieve perfectly cooked, juicy moist pork chops every time.
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I love making pork chops because they are a versatile protein – you can dress them up or keep them simple and they pair with all kinds of sides. Since I discovered that leaner cuts such as pork tenderloin and pork loin chops taste better when cooked to a lower temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit, I won’t cook pork any other way.
Why you will love these pork chops
- Easy! This is an an easy and customizable recipe made with simple ingredients that can be adapted to your taste.
- Flavor! This recipe produces perfect pork chops every time.
Here is what you will need
This is an overview of the ingredients and steps to make this delicious pork chops recipe; scroll down for a printable recipe card with exact measurements and detailed instructions.
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Ingredients
- Avocado oil or your favorite cooking oil
- Boneless pork chops – bone in will work too
- Sea salt or kosher salt
- Black pepper
- Thyme
- Onion powder
- Garlic
🥄Equipment
To brine or not to brine
Some people prefer to brine their pork chops before cooking to keep them nice and juicy. Personally, I find that a dry brine works better than a wet brine for this recipe.
You want to get that nice, brown coating on your chops, which is known as the Maillard reaction. That only happens when the meat is dry before it touches the pan. If you decide to use a wet brine, make sure the chops are dry before placing them in a hot pan.
I have made this recipe without brining the meat, and adding the seasoning just before cooking and the pork chops are just as delicious. So if you have the time to brine (at least 30 minutes before cooking up to 4 hours) go ahead and season the chops and place them in the refrigerator; otherwise, season the chops just before cooking.
Boneless or bone in pork chops ?
I prefer boneless pork chops, but bone-in ones work too, whichever your preference is. Thicker chops are juicier and more tender. I suggest you go for chops that are at least 3/4 inch thick. If you choose to use bone-in chops, keep in mind that they may require a longer cooking time.
The best skillet to use
You’ll need a heavy skillet to make this recipe. I prefer cast iron; a cast iron skillet holds heat well and gives a good sear on meats. If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, any heavy skillet that can go from stove to oven will work.
How to pan-sear pork chops and finish in the oven
Prepare: Use a paper towel to pat the pork chops dry. Measure the seasonings, mince or crush the garlic.
STEP 1: Season the pork chops with salt, pepper and onion powder. Place in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours.
STEP 2: About 15 minutes before cooking, remove the chops from the refrigerator and heat a heavy skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the pork chops to the hot skillet and sear for about 2 minutes until the exterior turns golden brown. Flip the chops over ad rub the golden side with the crushed garlic.
STEP 3: Sear for 2 minutes longer, and top with fresh herbs, and citrus slices, or leave them plain. Place the chops into the oven and bake until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145 degrees f, which can take up to 20 minutes depending on the thickness of the meat. Once the chops reach 145 degrees, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes.
Note: Don’t rely on time! Use a good meat thermometer like this instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature.
Serving suggestions
Serve these flavorful pork chops with a baked potato or roasted potatoes with leeks and green beans, roasted brussels sprouts or a salad for a simple and delicious dinner.
How to store leftovers
Leftover pork chops will last for up to three days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Leftover pork chops taste great, sliced and tossed in a salad, sandwich, or chopped up and added to an egg roll bowl.
Recipe variations
Add a little more flavor to your pork chops with these suggestions.
BBQ Sauce- brush on your favorite bbq sauce just before placing the pork chops into the oven
Seasoning – This is a recipe for plain seared pork chops. You can use any of your favorites to season the pork cops such as a simple dry rub, Cajun spices, Jerk seasoning.
Garlic butter and lemon – Before removing the pork chops from the oven, pour 2 tablespoons melted butter with chopped garlic and a teaspoon or two of lemon juice.
Dijon Mustard sauce – Mix a few tablespoons of white wine with a teaspoon of Dijon mustard and pour it over the chops just before removing the chops from the oven.
Fresh herbs and wine – Pour a half cup of white wine and a few sprigs of fresh herbs to the pan before baking the chops.
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How to make dinner with what you have!
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Tips
- To ensure evenly cooked and tender chops, I recommend taking them out of the refrigerator 15 to 20 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature.
- For the juiciest chops ever, let them rest for approximately 5 minutes before serving.
- Sprinkle a few drops of water to check if the skillet is hot. If the water sizzles and dances, it’s good to go.
Recipe FAQs
The best way to get a good sear, a heavy skillet or a cast iron pan is the optimal choice. Not only does it provide an even cooking surface, but it also allows for a nice sear. Just be sure it is oven-proof if you plan to transfer the skillet to the oven after searing.
Avocado oil has a high smoke point and is one of the best choices to pan-searing. It is a healthy fat, and has a mild flavor. The second choice is olive oil which has a slight flavor.
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Do you like this recipe or have a question?
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Find process photos and variations in the blog post:
How to Pan Sear Pork Chops and Finish in the OvenEquipment
Ingredients
- 2 pork chops boneless, about 1/4 to 1/2 pound each
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 1/8 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/8 teaspoons black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 clove garlic crushed
- Lemon wedges and fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: use a paper towel to pat the pork chops dry. Measure the seasonings, crush the garlic. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; preheat the oven to 375 degrees f.
- Season the 2 pork chops with 1/8 teaspoon sea salt, 1/8 teaspoons black pepper and 1/4 teaspoon onion powder.
- Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned chops to the skillet and sear them until the exterior turns golden brown (about 2 to 3 minutes).
- Flip the chops over and rub 1 clove garlic crushed onto the chops. Sear the other side for another minute or two longer.
- Add fresh herbs and lemon wedges to the pan if you are using them and place the pan into the oven and cook until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees which can take up t 20 minutes, but start checking the temperature after 10 minutes in the oven.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information provided is an estimate and can vary based on cooking methods and ingredients used
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