Are you looking for a fast and flavorful meal idea? Look no further than this easy recipe for thin sliced pork chops. In just under 10 minutes, you can have a mouthwatering dish that will satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive in and discover the secrets to cooking these delectable pork chops to perfection.
Key Takeaways
What Makes This Recipe So Good
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Efficiency – In today’s busy world, time is of the essence. This pork chop recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly fast to prepare. With just about 5 minutes of cooking time, it’s a perfect choice for those hectic weeknights when you need a quick and easy meal.
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Simplicity – Sometimes, less is more. This recipe relies on just a few basic ingredients, allowing the natural flavors of the pork to shine through. You don’t need a long list of complicated spices or marinades to achieve incredible results.
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Budget-Friendly – We all love a delicious and affordable meal. Thin pork chops are typically very reasonably priced. You can often find a pack of these flavorful cuts for around five dollars or even less. It’s an excellent option for those who want to enjoy a tasty meal without breaking the bank.
Essential Ingredients
To get started with this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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Thin pork chops – These chops are typically between 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch thick. You can find them prepackaged in the meat department or ask your friendly butcher to slice them for you.
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Olive oil or Butter – Choose your preferred cooking fat. While olive oil works perfectly fine, using butter adds a rich and indulgent flavor to the pork chops.
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Seasoning – Keep it simple with salt and pepper, or explore more adventurous options like a pork marinade to infuse your chops with extra juiciness.
Cooking Thin Pork Chops in a Pan
Ready to start cooking? Follow these easy steps to achieve perfectly tender and delicious thin pork chops:
Step One: Begin by patting dry the pork chops with a paper towel. Season the chops with your choice of salt, pepper, or another seasoning blend. For even more flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in advance.
Step Two: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add oil or butter to the pan. Once the pan is hot, place the pork chops in it and cook for 2 minutes on one side.
Step Three: Flip the pork chops over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F (63 degrees C). This ensures that your chops are safe to eat and perfectly cooked.
Cooking Time for Thin Pork Chops
The cooking time for thin pork chops largely depends on their thickness. These wafer-thin cuts, at about 1/4-inch thick, will only require about 1-2 minutes per side. However, if you are using thicker chops or bone-in cuts measuring around 1/2-inch, the cooking time may extend to 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on the internal temperature using a meat thermometer to ensure optimal doneness.
Storing Leftover Pork Chops
If you happen to have any leftover pork chops, rest assured that you can easily store them for later enjoyment. Simply place the chops in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat them either in a skillet or in an air fryer at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 2-3 minutes.
Recipe Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to enhance your thin pork chop experience:
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Ensure that the thin-cut pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees F (63 degrees C) before serving. A meat thermometer is an invaluable tool to help you achieve the perfect doneness. Avoid overcooking the chops, as they cook rapidly due to their thinness.
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If you’re working with 1/2-inch thick thin chops, adjust the cooking time accordingly, allowing for 2-3 minutes per side.
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Feel free to experiment with your seasonings. In addition to salt and pepper, consider adding 1/2 tablespoon of Italian seasoning for an additional burst of flavor.
What to Serve With Pork Chops
These delectable thin pork chops pair excellently with a variety of delicious side dishes, such as:
- Green beans
- Broccoli
- Mac and cheese
- Baked sweet potato
Frequently Asked Questions
More Easy Pork Recipes
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Enjoy your thin sliced pork chops and savor the delightful flavors that this simple and speedy recipe offers. Happy cooking!