Cooking Perfectly Juicy Boneless Pork Chops on the Stovetop
To prepare boneless pork chops on the stovetop in an electric skillet without drying them out, follow these steps for a juicy and flavorful result:
Ingredients
Boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick Salt and pepper Olive oil or butter Optional: garlic, herbs like rosemary or thyme, or your preferred seasoningSteps
Follow these steps to achieve perfectly cooked and juicy pork chops:
Optional: Brining
For extra juiciness, consider brining the pork chops for 30 minutes to 2 hours in a solution of water and salt (1/4 cup salt per quart of water). Rinse and pat dry before cooking.
Seasoning
Generously season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. You can also add additional spices like garlic powder, paprika, or rosemary to enhance the flavor.
Preheat the Electric Skillet
Set your electric skillet to medium-high heat (around 350°F to 375°F) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes.
Add Fat
Once the skillet is hot, add a couple of tablespoons of olive oil or butter. Let it heat until shimmering but not smoking.
Sear the Chops
Place the pork chops in the skillet without overcrowding them. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown. Avoid moving them around too much to get a good crust. Use tongs to flip the chops over in the skillet when ready.
Flip and Cook Further
Flip the chops and reduce the heat to medium. Cook for another 4-6 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chops. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Add Flavor (Optional)
If using, you can add minced garlic, herbs, or a splash of broth or wine during the last few minutes of cooking to infuse flavor. If making a sauce, deglaze the skillet with broth, wine, or cream after removing the chops.
Resting the Meat
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
Serving Suggestion
Slice and serve your pork chops with your choice of sides to enjoy a delicious meal.
Tips for Perfectly Juicy Boneless Pork Chops
Thickness Matters: If your chops are thicker than 1 inch, consider pounding them to an even thickness or adjusting the cooking time accordingly. Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the internal temperature to avoid drying out the meat. A meat thermometer provides the most accurate results. Sauce Option: After removing the chops, deglaze the skillet with broth, wine, or cream to create a flavorful sauce.By following these steps and tips, you should be able to achieve perfectly cooked and juicy boneless pork chops every time!