When it comes to cooking, pork chops are a staple protein that can be prepared in countless ways. But sometimes, we want more than just a plain old grilled or baked pork chop. That’s why we’ve rounded up 20 delicious and healthy pork chop recipes for every occasion. From classic flavor combinations like garlic herb and lemon pepper, to international twists like Asian ginger soy and Mediterranean olive and lemon, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for a special gathering, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore the world of pork chops and share our favorite recipes that just happen to be good for you too. So go ahead, get cooking, and indulge in the rich flavors of these mouthwatering pork chops!
Garlic Herb Grilled Pork Chops
A flavorful and aromatic twist on classic grilled pork chops, this recipe combines the pungency of garlic with the brightness of fresh herbs to create a mouthwatering main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 lbs)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the pork chops with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops.
5. Grill pork chops for 4-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Baked Lemon Pepper Pork Chops
Experience the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon paired with the warm, spicy kick of pepper on tender pork chops.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons black pepper, freshly ground
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, black pepper, and paprika.
3. Place pork chops in a shallow baking dish and brush the lemon-pepper mixture evenly over both sides of the chops.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Stuffed Pork Chops
A sweet and savory twist on classic pork chops, this recipe combines the tender meat with a delicious apple cinnamon filling.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 2 apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together apples, brown sugar, butter, garlic, and cinnamon.
3. Lay the pork chops flat and make a horizontal incision in each chop, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff each pork chop with the apple mixture, dividing it evenly among the four chops.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the stuffed pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Pork Chops
This recipe yields juicy and flavorful pork chops glazed with a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying deliciously caramelized pork chops in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of the pork chops with olive oil.
5. Place the pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Brush the honey mustard glaze evenly over each pork chop.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Chops
Get ready to savor the flavors of the Pacific with this mouthwatering recipe for Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Chops. This dish combines the tender juiciness of pork chops with the sweetness of pineapple and the tanginess of teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add pork chops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
4. Transfer pork chops to a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While pork is cooking, combine pineapple chunks, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic in the skillet.
6. Simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens slightly.
7. Serve pork chops with pineapple teriyaki sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Air Fryer Pork Chops
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this easy and flavorful recipe, featuring tender pork chops infused with the savory goodness of rosemary and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and chopped rosemary.
3. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Brush each pork chop with olive oil, then sprinkle the garlic-rosemary mixture evenly over the top of each chop.
5. Place the pork chops in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each chop.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops game with this flavorful and savory recipe that combines the richness of feta cheese with the nutrients of spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops, 1-inch thick
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay the pork chops flat and make a horizontal incision in each chop to create a pocket. Stuff each chop with the spinach-feta mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed pork chops and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops with Vegetables
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines tender pork chops with a rich balsamic glaze and colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 lbs)
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey until well combined.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Add sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
6. Add bell peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Brush balsamic glaze over pork chops and vegetables.
8. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until pork chops are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Yogurt Marinated Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops game with this refreshing Greek yogurt marinade, infused with the brightness of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Place pork chops in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, turning to coat evenly. Seal bag or cover dish with plastic wrap.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Preheat grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Remove pork from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook pork chops for 4-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let rest before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-18 minutes
Avocado Lime Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops with a burst of creamy avocado and zesty lime juice. This refreshing twist on traditional pork chops is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops, boneless
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together avocado, lime juice, and garlic.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Brush olive oil on both sides of the pork chops.
5. Place pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Spoon the avocado-lime mixture evenly over the pork chops.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa Crusted Pork Chops
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the tender juiciness of pork chops, creating a unique and delicious meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this flavorful dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked quinoa, panko breadcrumbs, and garlic powder.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each pork chop in the quinoa mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Dijon Roasted Pork Chops
Maple Dijon Roasted Pork Chops Recipe
This sweet and savory recipe combines the rich flavors of maple syrup, dijon mustard, and roasted pork chops for a delicious and impressive main dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops, 1-1.5 inches thick
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, dijon mustard, and thyme. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork chops.
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle with olive oil.
- Place the pork chops on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time:
20-25 minutes
Pesto and Tomato Topped Pork Chops
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe, featuring tender pork chops smothered in a rich pesto sauce and topped with juicy tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Remove pork chops from the oven and top each with a spoonful of pesto.
6. Arrange sliced tomatoes on top of the pesto.
7. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until tomatoes are tender.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sweet Potato and Pork Chop Skillet
Sweet Potato and Pork Chop Skillet Recipe
A hearty and flavorful skillet dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory taste of pork chops. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 4 pork chops (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the pork chops and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
4. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add the sliced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add the diced sweet potato, garlic, and thyme to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes start to soften.
7. Return the pork chops to the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Spiced Pork Chops with Mango Salsa
Add a flavorful twist to traditional pork chops with this spicy and sweet combination.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops, boneless
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the pork chops with olive oil and sprinkle with the spice mixture.
4. Place pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve pork chops with Mango Salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asian Ginger Soy Pork Chops
Experience the bold flavors of Asia with this simple and savory pork chops recipe. Marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, these tender pork chops are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar.
2. Add pork chops to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove pork chops from marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Olive and Lemon Pork Chops
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic dish, where the brightness of lemon and the richness of olives come together to create a truly Mediterranean-inspired pork chop.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano.
3. Place pork chops in a shallow dish and brush both sides with the marinade.
4. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Remove from marinade and cook on a preheated grill or skillet for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional sliced olives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops game with this indulgent recipe that combines the richness of cheese, the crunch of broccoli, and the juiciness of perfectly cooked pork.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together broccoli, cheese, parsley, and garlic.
3. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each pork chop with about 1/4 cup of the broccoli mixture.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Paprika Pork Chops with Roasted Carrots
This recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked paprika and caramelized carrots to create a mouth-watering pork chop dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork chops.
4. Place the pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the pork is cooking, toss the chopped carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet.
7. Roast the carrots in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Zucchini and Mushroom Pork Chop Stir Fry
This flavorful stir-fry is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables while enjoying the tender juiciness of pork chops. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (6 oz each)
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork chops and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic, zucchini, and mushrooms to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Return the pork chops to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pork chop game! In this article, we’ve rounded up 20 mouth-watering healthy pork chop recipes perfect for every occasion. From classic grilled and baked options to more adventurous dishes like pineapple teriyaki and Mediterranean-inspired flavors, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for special guests, these recipes are sure to impress. So go ahead, get cooking, and indulge in the delicious world of pork chops!
