Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Pan-Seared, Oven-Finished Pork Chops:
Ingredients:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and any additional spices (like paprika or garlic powder).
Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet (like cast iron) over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering but not smoking.
Place the pork chops in the hot pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a deep golden-brown crust. Do not overcrowd the pan.
Reduce the heat to medium, add the butter, minced garlic, and fresh thyme or rosemary. Tilt the pan slightly and spoon the melted butter over the pork chops for about a minute to infuse flavor.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the pork chops for 6-10 minutes, depending on their thickness, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F-145°F (it will rise slightly after resting).
Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the pork chops to a plate. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
If desired, place the skillet back on the stove, add a splash of chicken broth, white wine, or cream, and whisk to create a quick pan sauce using pan drippings
