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Crispy Pan-Seared Pork Chops Recipe Easy Garlic Thyme Flavor

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A simple and quick recipe for crispy outside, juicy inside pork chops infused with garlic and fresh thyme, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
  • 3–4 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 3–4 fresh thyme sprigs
  • Salt (kosher or sea salt), to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove any moisture.
  2. Season both sides of the chops generously with salt, cracked black pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Let rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Preheat a cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering but not smoking (about 3-4 minutes).
  4. Place the pork chops in the pan away from you to avoid splatters. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms.
  5. Flip the chops gently using tongs. Add butter, smashed garlic cloves, and thyme sprigs to the pan.
  6. Tilt the pan and baste the chops repeatedly with the melted butter, garlic, and thyme for about 1 minute.
  7. Continue cooking and basting for another 4-5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  8. Remove the chops from the pan and rest loosely covered with foil for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  9. Serve hot with a drizzle of the leftover garlic thyme butter from the pan.

Notes

Patting the pork chops dry is essential for a crispy crust. Let the meat rest at room temperature before cooking for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches 145°F (63°C) for safety and juiciness. For thicker chops, finish in a 400°F oven for 3-5 minutes after searing. Butter basting with garlic and thyme adds flavor and moisture. Avoid flipping early to develop a good crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork chops, pan-seared pork chops, garlic thyme pork chops, crispy pork chops, easy pork recipe, weeknight dinner, quick pork chops

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