These Italian pork chops are packed with delicious flavors! Made with juicy pork, zesty herbs, and a tasty tomato sauce, they’re sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
Honestly, who can resist the smell of herbs cooking in the kitchen? Pair these chops with some pasta or a fresh salad, and you’re in for a treat! I love making extras for lunch! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are best for flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, boneless chops will work too, just reduce cooking time slightly to prevent dryness.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness. If you’re out, feel free to use vegetable or canola oil. I’ve used avocado oil before, and it gives a nice flavor too!
Garlic: Fresh garlic truly shines in this dish. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder will work, but fresh is always better for that rich aroma.
Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and yellow bell pepper add freshness. You can swap these for other seasonal veggies like bell peppers of other colors, asparagus, or even broccoli.
Chicken Broth or Wine: If you want to keep it alcohol-free, use chicken or vegetable broth. Apple cider vinegar mixed with water can add a bit of tanginess if you’re looking for a substitute.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Searing My Pork Chops?
Searing is all about building flavor! Here’s how to get a nice golden crust:
- Make sure your pork chops are dry. Pat them down with paper towels to remove any moisture for the best browning.
- Heat the oil until it shimmers. This indicates it’s hot enough for searing.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If your skillet is too full, the chops will steam instead. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Leave the chops untouched for the first 3-4 minutes to develop that lovely crust. Flip only once to maintain that texture.
Following these steps will provide you with pork chops that are both flavorful and juicy!
How to Make Italian Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For the Seasoning:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- For the Vegetables:
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 small zucchini, sliced
- 1 small yellow bell pepper, chopped
- For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. In total, you should set aside about 30 minutes to create these delicious Italian Pork Chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This will help them sear beautifully. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.
2. Sear the Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet. Sear them until they’re golden brown, which should take about 3-4 minutes on each side. Once done, remove the chops and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Garlic:
Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Add Broth and Veggies:
Pour in the chicken broth or wine, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the skillet (this adds great flavor!). Next, add the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and yellow bell pepper to the skillet. Stir things around to combine.
5. Simmer the Dish:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, placing them among your colorful veggies. Cover the pan and let everything simmer for about 6-8 minutes, or until the pork’s internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Final Touches:
After simmering, remove the lid and cook for an additional 2 minutes. This helps reduce the sauce slightly and melds all those lovely flavors. Finally, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs.
7. Serve Up and Enjoy:
Serve the delicious Italian pork chops immediately, spooning the vibrant vegetables and sauce over each chop. They pair wonderfully with garlic mashed potatoes or a crispy green salad!
Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just reduce the cooking time by a few minutes since they tend to cook faster. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Cherry Tomatoes?
If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, you can use diced regular tomatoes or a mixture of grape tomatoes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to account for the size of the tomatoes.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little broth if needed to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add other spicy elements like chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper to suit your taste. Just be mindful to balance the flavors!
