Perfect Pan-Seared Bone-In Pork Chops
🥩 Ingredients (Serves 2–4)
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2 thick-cut bone-in pork chops (1–1½ inches thick)
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1½ teaspoons kosher salt
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1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
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½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter
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3 cloves garlic, smashed
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2–3 fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
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½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
🔪 Preparation
1️⃣ Bring to Room Temperature
Remove pork chops from the refrigerator 30–40 minutes before cooking.
Pat completely dry with paper towels (very important for a good crust).
2️⃣ Season Generously
Mix:
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Salt
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Pepper
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Garlic powder
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Paprika
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Thyme
Rub evenly on both sides of the pork chops, including the edges.
🔥 Cooking Instructions
3️⃣ Preheat the Pan
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Use a heavy skillet (cast iron preferred).
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Heat over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes.
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Add olive oil and let it shimmer (but not smoke heavily).
4️⃣ Sear the Pork Chops
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Place pork chops in the pan.
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Do NOT move them.
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Sear for 4–5 minutes until a deep golden crust forms.
Flip and cook another 4–5 minutes.
5️⃣ Add Butter & Aromatics
Lower heat to medium.
Add:
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Butter
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Smashed garlic
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Fresh thyme
Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the chops continuously for 1–2 minutes (this builds flavor and keeps them juicy).
6️⃣ Check Internal Temperature
Use a meat thermometer:
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Remove at 140–145°F (60–63°C)
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Temperature will rise slightly while resting.
Avoid overcooking — pork becomes dry above 150°F.
💤 Resting
Transfer to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
Rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
This allows juices to redistribute.
🥔 Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
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Garlic mashed potatoes
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Roasted vegetables
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Steamed green beans
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Apple sauce (classic pairing)
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Simple side salad
⭐ Pro Tips for Perfect Results
✔ Use thick-cut chops — thin ones overcook quickly
✔ Pat completely dry before seasoning
✔ Don’t flip repeatedly — one good sear per side
✔ Let the pan stay hot before adding meat
✔ Resting is mandatory for juicy chops
🔄 Optional Flavor Variations
Honey Garlic:
Add 1 tablespoon honey during butter basting.
Lemon Herb:
Finish with fresh lemon juice and zest.
Spicy Cajun:
Replace seasoning with Cajun spice blend.
Oven-Finish Method (for extra thick chops):
After searing both sides, transfer skillet to a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5–8 minutes.
