Tender Herb-Infused Pork Chops

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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If you're on the hunt for a dish that marries simplicity with flavor, look no further than these Tender Herb-Infused Pork Chops. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a small gathering with friends, this recipe brings out the best in pork with a blend of fragrant herbs.

Ingredients for Tender Herb-Infused Pork Chops

Pork chops are the star here, providing a juicy base that soaks up the herbal flavors perfectly. We use bone-in for extra flavor, but boneless works too. Olive oil helps to carry the flavors of the marinade while keeping the meat moist. The lemon juice adds a slight tang, tenderizing the meat as it marinates. Garlic brings a rich, savory depth, while fresh rosemary and thyme infuse the chops with earthy aromas. Finally, a dash of salt and black pepper seasons everything to perfection.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you prefer a more pronounced garlic flavor, add an extra clove.
  • Using a meat thermometer ensures perfect doneness without guesswork.
  • If grilling, let your chops reach room temperature before cooking for even heat distribution.
  • Always rest the meat after cooking to maintain juiciness.

Serving Suggestions

These pork chops pair beautifully with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots. A side of creamy mashed potatoes or a light, zesty salad also complements the flavors nicely. For a complete meal, consider adding a glass of chilled white wine, which balances the herbal notes beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried herbs, but reduce the quantity by half since they are more concentrated.
What's the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying them out.
Can I cook these in the oven?
Absolutely! Sear them first in a hot pan, then finish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Tender Herb-Infused Pork Chops Recipe Walkthrough

Start by whisking together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This will be your marinade, a simple yet powerful concoction that will elevate your pork chops.

Place the pork chops into a resealable plastic bag. Carefully pour the marinade over the chops, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag with as little air as possible and give it a gentle massage to distribute the marinade evenly. Pop the bag in the fridge and let the flavors meld for at least an hour. If you have time, let it rest for up to 8 hours for deeper flavor absorption.

When you're ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. While it heats up, take the pork chops out of the fridge and remove them from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade — you won't need it anymore.

Place the chops on the grill or skillet, cooking them for about 4-5 minutes per side. You're aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), which is the sweet spot for juicy, tender pork. Once done, remove them from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every bite succulent.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare with minimal ingredients.
  • Infused with fresh herbs for a fragrant aroma.
  • Perfectly tender with a subtle citrus twist.
  • Flexible cooking methods - grill or skillet.

Ingredients

4 pork chops
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tsp thyme
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the pork chops in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Remove pork chops from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade.
5. Cook the pork chops for 4-5 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 3 minutes before serving.

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