Skillet Creamy Garlic Herb Pork Chops

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Herb Pork Chops

• 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter, unsalted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth, low sodium
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs, chopped (parsley, thyme, and rosemary blend recommended)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard for added tang

Step-by-Step Instructions: From Skillet to Supper

1. Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures a beautiful sear. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy – proper seasoning is key to unlocking the pork’s natural flavors.
2. Sear the Pork Chops: Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and the butter is melted, carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches to maintain optimal searing conditions. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a reliable meat thermometer for accuracy. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will impart a bitter taste to the sauce.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This process, known as deglazing, adds depth and complexity to the sauce. Bring the broth to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly reduced.
5. Incorporate the Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. If using, whisk in the Dijon mustard for an extra layer of flavor. Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Add the Herbs: Stir in the fresh herbs. The aroma at this point will be simply divine!
7. Return the Pork Chops: Return the seared pork chops to the skillet and nestle them into the creamy sauce. Spoon the sauce over the pork chops to ensure they are evenly coated.
8. Simmer and Serve: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the pork chops are heated through and the sauce has further thickened.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Creamy Garlic Herb Pork Chops immediately, garnished with extra fresh herbs, if desired. This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad.

Cooking Tips & Prep Shortcuts

• For Extra Flavor: Marinate the pork chops for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and lemon juice before searing.
• Prep Ahead: Chop the garlic and herbs in advance to save time during cooking. You can even make the creamy sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Simply reheat the sauce before adding the pork chops.
• Achieving a Perfect Sear: The key to a beautiful sear is a hot pan and dry pork chops. Patting the pork chops dry removes excess moisture, allowing them to brown properly.

Flavor Pairings and Serving Suggestions

These Creamy Garlic Herb Pork Chops are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes
• Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans
• A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing
• Quinoa or rice pilaf
• Crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce

Variations and Substitutions

Dietary Adaptations

• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free!
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. Use coconut cream or cashew cream in place of the heavy cream.

Regional Twists

• Tuscan-Inspired: Add sun-dried tomatoes and a splash of white wine to the creamy sauce for a taste of Tuscany.
• French Country: Incorporate Dijon mustard, tarragon, and a touch of nutmeg for a classic French flavor profile.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes