These Italian pork chops are juicy, flavorful, and packed with herbs. They are cooked to perfection, making dinnertime feel special and delicious!
Honestly, there’s something magical about the smell of garlic and herbs filling the kitchen. I love serving them with a side of pasta or veggies for a complete meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are my favorite for this recipe because the bone adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy. If you prefer, boneless chops work too, but watch the cook time closely.
Olive Oil: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. If you need a substitute, avocado oil or vegetable oil works in a pinch.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is amazing, but if you’re in a hurry, pre-minced garlic works. Just remember that fresh has a much stronger flavor, so adjust to taste.
Herbs: Dried herbs are convenient and tasty. For a fresher taste, feel free to use fresh herbs (like parsley or basil). Just use more as they are less concentrated!
Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes are juicy and sweet, but you can swap them for regular tomatoes if needed. Zucchini and bell pepper give nice color and crunch but substitute with whatever veggies you have on hand.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Pork Chops?
Marinating pork chops is key to adding flavor and tenderness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix your marinade ingredients well for even flavor distribution.
- Make sure to pat the pork chops dry; this helps the marinade stick better.
- Cover the pork chops and let them marinate in the fridge. The longer, the better—about 30 minutes to 2 hours. Just avoid overnight as that can dry them out.
A well-marinated pork chop can really make all the difference in flavor, so don’t skip this step! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Delicious Italian Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Vegetables:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small zucchini, sliced
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. So, you’re looking at about 30 minutes total from start to finish. It’s a quick way to create a flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, basil, parsley, thyme, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. This will be your yummy herb marinade!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade stick better. Rub the herb marinade evenly on both sides of the pork chops. Cover the chops and pop them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This lets all those flavors soak in!
3. Prep the Veggies:
While the pork chops are marinating, prepare the vegetables. In another bowl, toss the cherry tomatoes, sliced zucchini, and chopped yellow bell pepper with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. This will make them flavorful and delicious!
4. Cook the Pork Chops:
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. They should be beautifully browned and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the pan and set them aside to rest. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping them tender!
6. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add the prepared vegetables and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they are tender but still slightly crisp. Stir them occasionally so they cook evenly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Italian pork chops hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. Place the sautéed vegetables on the side and drizzle with fresh lemon juice for extra brightness. This dish goes perfectly with risotto, pasta, or crusty Italian bread. Enjoy your flavorful Italian pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster, usually taking around 3-4 minutes per side.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Garlic?
If you don’t have fresh garlic, pre-minced garlic works in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of pre-minced garlic for each clove, but remember that fresh garlic has a stronger flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers, asparagus, or mushrooms. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they are tender but not mushy.
