These blackened pork chops are bursting with flavor! Seasoned with spice and seared until crispy, they’re a real treat for the taste buds. Perfect for a hearty dinner!
Honestly, they make the kitchen smell amazing! I love serving them with a side of veggies or mashed potatoes—simple and satisfying. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops give a juicy flavor and tenderness, but you can use boneless if that’s what you have. Just keep an eye on cooking time as they may cook faster.
Spices: Paprika is essential for color and flavor, but if you want a milder taste, use sweet paprika instead of smoked. For heat, adjust the cayenne pepper based on your preference.
Olive Oil vs. Butter: Olive oil is great for frying, but melted butter adds richness. You could even mix them for the best of both worlds! If you need dairy-free, stick with olive oil.
How Can You Achieve a Perfect Blackened Crust?
Getting that perfect blackened crust is all about cooking temperature and technique. Here’s how:
- Use a cast-iron skillet if you can. It holds heat well and gives a nice sear.
- Make sure the skillet is very hot before adding the pork chops. If it’s not hot enough, the spices won’t blacken properly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if needed to keep the heat consistent.
This method will give you that delicious crispy crust while keeping the inside juicy. After cooking, letting the pork rest is vital to keep it tender. Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Blackened Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook. Plus, there’s a little resting time of about 5 minutes after cooking. In total, you can have this flavorful meal ready in just 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Blackening Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. This combination of spices will create the flavorful blackening seasoning for your pork chops!
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps to create a nice sear. Then, brush both sides of the pork chops lightly with olive oil or melted butter. Next, generously coat each side with the blackening seasoning, pressing it into the meat to make sure it sticks well.
3. Heat the Skillet:
Place a cast-iron skillet or a heavy frying pan over medium-high heat. Allow it to become very hot, which is essential for achieving that wonderful blackened crust.
4. Cook the Pork Chops:
Add a small amount of oil or butter to the hot skillet to prevent sticking. Carefully place the seasoned pork chops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want them to develop a dark blackened crust while also cooking through to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chops juicy and tender. Finally, serve the blackened pork chops hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges and parsley if you like. They go perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables!
Enjoy your flavorful and crispy blackened pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While bone-in chops are juicier, boneless chops will work just fine. Just remember to adjust the cooking time, as they may cook quicker—start checking for doneness a minute or two earlier.
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No problem! You can substitute or omit spices based on what you have. For example, if you’re out of thyme, you could use Italian seasoning instead or skip it altogether. Just keep a good balance of flavor with garlic and onion powder!
How Should I Store Leftover Blackened Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the texture, or you can microwave them briefly. Adding a little moisture, like broth, can help prevent dryness.
Can I Make This Recipe on the Grill?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Just preheat your grill to high heat, then cook the seasoned pork chops for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure they’re cooked through!