Perfect Pan-Seared Bone-In Pork Chops

🥩 Ingredients (Serves 2–4)

• 2 thick-cut bone-in pork chops (1–1½ inches thick)

• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 3 cloves garlic, smashed

• 2–3 fresh thyme sprigs (optional)

• 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:

• Salt

• Pepper

• Garlic powder

• Paprika

• Thyme

Rub evenly on both sides of the pork chops, including the edges.

🔥 Cooking Instructions

3️⃣ Preheat the Pan

• Use a heavy skillet (cast iron preferred).

• Heat over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes.

• Add olive oil and let it shimmer (but not smoke heavily).

4️⃣ Sear the Pork Chops

• Place pork chops in the pan.

• Do NOT move them.

• 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:

• Butter

• Smashed garlic

• 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:

• Remove at 140–145°F (60–63°C)

• 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:

• Garlic mashed potatoes

• Roasted vegetables

• Steamed green beans

• Apple sauce (classic pairing)

• 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.