These herb crusted pork chops are juicy and full of flavor, thanks to a tasty mix of fresh herbs and seasoning. They’re perfect for a cozy dinner!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a nice crispy crust? I always find myself making extra just to share with friends—and they never say no! 😄 Serve these with some veggies, and you’ve got a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for this recipe as they stay juicy during cooking. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops, just adjust the cooking time slightly since they cook faster.
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary, thyme, and parsley work wonderfully together. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs can be used, but reduce the amounts since dried herbs are more concentrated. About a third of the amount should do.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the herbs stick. You could replace it with melted butter or another cooking oil like avocado oil. Both have great flavor!
Dijon Mustard: This adds a tangy kick. If you don’t have it, honey mustard or even a little apple cider vinegar can be good substitutes, providing a different but delightful taste.
Breadcrumbs: Using panko gives an extra crunch, which I love! Regular breadcrumbs are fine, too, and if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, ground almonds work well.
How do I Get the Perfect Herb Crust?
The key to a crispy herb crust lies in a few simple steps. First, patting the pork chops dry is essential—this removes moisture so the crust adheres and crisps up nicely.
- Make the herb mixture by blending the garlic, herbs, mustard, salt, pepper, and oil.
- Brush the mixture evenly on the chops. For a bigger crunch, press on breadcrumbs or ground nuts before searing them.
- Sear on medium-high heat to get that golden color. This step adds flavor and texture!
- Finish cooking them in the oven to ensure they’re fully cooked without drying out.
Finally, let the pork chops rest for a bit after cooking; this keeps them juicy and gives time for the flavors to settle. Enjoy your meal!
Herb Crusted Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular) or finely ground almonds (optional for extra crust texture)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15-20 minutes for cooking. Since you’ll be searing and then roasting the pork chops, it’s a quick and delicious meal that doesn’t require too much time in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready when you’re done preparing the pork chops. You can also lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This is an important step because it helps the herb crust stick better and gives the meat a nice browning when cooked. Set the chops aside while you mix the herb seasoning.
3. Make the Herb Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and olive oil. Stir everything together until you have a well-combined mixture.
4. Coat the Pork Chops:
Brush the herb mixture evenly on all sides of the pork chops. For an extra crunch, press the breadcrumbs or ground almonds onto the chops, ensuring they adhere well to the herb mixture.
5. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add a splash of olive oil. Sear the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and develop a beautiful crust.
6. Roast in the Oven:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Roast the pork chops for about 8-10 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accurate results to ensure they are perfectly cooked.
7. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat juicy and delicious.
8. Enjoy:
Serve these tasty herb crusted pork chops over a bed of fresh greens or with your favorite side dishes. Feel free to garnish with orange segments or extra herbs for a fresh touch. Enjoy your meal!
These pork chops will have a flavorful, crispy herb coating and a juicy inside, just like the image shows! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw them in the fridge before cooking. The best way to thaw is to place them in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can use the cold water method: seal them in a plastic bag, submerge in cold water, and change the water every 30 minutes until thawed.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten things up, you can skip the breadcrumbs or use whole wheat or gluten-free options. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of olive oil or use a cooking spray instead. Serve the pork chops with steamed vegetables instead of starchy sides for a healthier meal.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops in the herb mixture overnight in the fridge will enhance the flavor even more. Just be sure to pat them dry before applying the breadcrumbs for the best crust.
What Should I Serve with Herb Crusted Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, serve them with quinoa or a side of sautéed greens. Enjoy experimenting with different sides!
