Pork chops are flavorful, tender, and easy to cook, and you can serve them with a variety of different side dishes, making them very versatile. See how to cook pork chops in 14 different new ways.
How to pick pork chops
When picking pork, go for pale pink meat with a small amount of marbling and white
fat. The package should preferably be vacuumed, sealed, or tightly wrapped. Make sure there are no holes.
The meat should be frozen or cold, and there shouldn’t be liquid at the bottom of the tray because that could be a sign that the cold chain has been broken.
How to season pork chops
Herbs add a lot of natural fresh flavor without using a lot of heat or spices. There are
some herbs that enhance pork’s flavor.
- Parsley: It has a greeny, fresh flavor. It’s mainly added at the end of the cooking time or as a garnish to brighten the dish.
- Oregano: Very aromatic herb, earthy, slightly bitter, used fresh or dry.
- Chives: They impart a mild oniony flavor without overpowering the pork. Just chop them up and sprinkle them on the chops.
- Thyme: Earthy, slightly minty flavor. It can be dried or fresh. If using dried it should be added toward the beginning of the recipe to allow time for its flavor to infuse the dish.
- Tarragon: It imparts a licorice flavor, best if added to the end of the cooking to preserve its delicate flavor.
- Basil: Sweet and very aromatic herb primarily used in Italian and Mediterranean cuisines.
- Sage: This leaf is tough and a bit bitter if eaten raw. It is best to chop it and use it raw in marinates or rubs or to cook it in sauces.
- Cilantro: It’s a very savory herb with a distinct flavor. You can use it in marinates, in raw salsas, or added at the end in cooked sauces.
- Dill: It has an intensely sweet, strong flavor. A little bit goes a long way. It’s best added toward the end of the cooking time.
- Rosemary: Very aromatic. You need a small amount. It has an earthy, slightly lemony, and piney flavor.
Pork chop recipes
Whether you go as simple as some salt and black pepper or pick some sophisticated flavor and ingredients, pork chops will be your new favorite protein with all these choices to prepare them.
1. Bone-in pork chops with mango salsa
There's so much to love in these bone-in pork chops with the most fantastic juiciness and picture-perfect grilled marks served with a tropical spicy and sweet mango sauce. What a great way to enjoy these flavorful, tender pork chops. You can save the leftover sauce in the fridge, where it gets even better overnight.
2. Rice with pork chops
This juicy, colorful, flavorful pork chops and rice will amaze you with its combination of vegetables, tropical flavors, and beautiful color. It's a great way to use smoked pork.
3. Fried pork chops
What's not to love about these simple, tasty fried chops? Buy one-inch thickness bone-in pork chops and you can have dinner ready in no time. So grab your cast-iron skillet and let's get this ready.
4. Smoked pork chop and rice stew
A lively garlicky hint and intense flavors in a filling, comforting dish that is inexpensive and easy to make. This is one of my favorite ways to enjoy pork chops, so grab a spoon!
5. Stewed pork chops
Sear some boneless pork chops, throw in some garlic, onion, herbs, and tomato sauce, and have this dish ready in no time. It goes great with a small bowl of rice on the side.
6. Pork chop fried rice
Who doesn't love fried rice, but combined with some fried pork chop pieces it's a whole new thing.
7. Lemongrass Vietnamese pork chops
Bursting with the taste of lemongrass and garlic, these flavorful charred pork chops can be cooked on the grill or using a pan and the stovetop.
8. Sheet pan brown sugar pork chops
What's not to love about these simple, gently sweet, juicy pork chops that are seasoned with olive oil, paprika, and brown sugar in these amazing oven-baked pork chops?
9. Cast iron pork chops with mushrooms and thyme
Make your family excited for dinner with this hearty dish of juicy pork loin chops cooked with a thyme, red wine, and mushroom sauce. So simple, yet sophisticated.
10. Pan-roasted brined pork chops
What to do with some lovely 1-inch thick sliced pork chops? How about adding a new technique to your repertoire and brining them. They're absolutely worth the time.
11. Frozen pork chops in air fryer
You don't need to waste any time thawing your pork chops, so learn how to make them, and you'll only need some salt and pepper for a dinner nobody will leave untouched.
12. Instant pot pork chops with potatoes
Some pepper, salt, paprika, and garlic powder, and you can have pork chops. and potatoes ready with no effort with this instant pot recipe.
13. Juicy pork chops with spiced rhubarb chutney
Season with some kosher salt, some black pepper, and some sage leaves, and you already have the recipe for a winner, but add the lovely rhubarb sauce, and it becomes something to behold.
14. Spanish pork chop bake
There is so much I love in these pork chop rolls stuffed with cheese and pimento and with a lovely, crispy golden crust. I am sure you'll love them too.
Don't miss: What to serve with pork chops!
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