These Italian Pork Chops are juicy and packed with flavor! They are seasoned with garlic, herbs, and a hint of lemon, making every bite delicious and zesty.
Cooking them is quite easy! Just pan-sear and then let them simmer. I love serving these with some pasta or a fresh salad for a tasty meal. You’re going to enjoy them! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless, 1-inch thick chops are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for alternatives, try bone-in chops or even chicken breasts for a lighter option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a lovely richness. For a different flavor, you could use avocado oil or even butter for the searing step. Just remember, butter burns faster, so keep an eye on it!
Garlic: Fresh garlic imparts a wonderful aroma and taste. If you’re out, you can substitute with garlic powder (1/8 teaspoon per clove) but fresh is always better when possible.
Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes and zucchini are fantastic, but feel free to use bell peppers, asparagus, or any seasonal veggies you have on hand for variety.
White Wine: If you want to skip the wine, chicken broth works well. A splash of lemon juice can enhance the flavors, too! For non-alcoholic, you can opt for apple cider vinegar mixed with water.
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Perfectly Seared?
Searing the pork chops properly is key to locking in their juices. Start by patting them dry; moisture keeps them from browning. Here’s how to sear them to perfection:
- Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat before adding oil.
- Let the oil heat until shimmering before placing the pork in the pan. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as that can lower the heat.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes without moving them. Flip only once for an even golden-brown color.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C) for moist and flavorful pork. Happy cooking! 😊
How to Make Italian Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 cup yellow and green zucchini, sliced
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth (optional, for deglazing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes around 30 minutes total! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection. It’s a quick and satisfying meal, great for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and half of the dried Italian seasoning.
2. Sear the Chops:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Then, take them out of the skillet and set them aside for now.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Turn the heat down to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until you can smell that wonderful garlic aroma!
4. Cook the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the cherry tomatoes and sliced zucchini. Sprinkle on the remaining Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if you like a little spice. Stir occasionally and cook the veggies for about 4-5 minutes, until they start to soften.
5. Return the Pork Chops:
Add the seared pork chops back to the skillet. If you’re using white wine or chicken broth, pour it in now, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Simmer to Finish:
Cover the skillet and let everything simmer for about 5-6 minutes, or until the pork chops are fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C).
7. Add Lemon Juice:
Remove the skillet from the heat and drizzle fresh lemon juice over the pork chops and vegetables. This adds a nice bright flavor!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Top your Italian Pork Chops with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm, and enjoy this delightful dish!
This meal pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, pasta, or a simple green salad. Buon Appetito! 😊
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will add more flavor, but they may take a little longer to cook. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety.
What If I Don’t Have White Wine?
No worries! You can easily substitute with chicken broth for a rich flavor. Alternatively, use water with a splash of lemon juice for some acidity.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the pork moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Zucchini?
Yes, you can! Feel free to swap it out for any vegetables you prefer, such as bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as different veggies have different cooking times.
