These herb crusted pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! Coated with a tasty mix of herbs, they make a perfect dinner for your family or friends.
Whenever I make these, I feel like a chef! Seriously, you just season and bake—easy peasy. And the aroma? Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are the best choice for juiciness. However, you can use boneless chops if that’s what you have. Just reduce the cooking time a bit!
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko adds a lovely crunch. If you don’t have them, regular breadcrumbs can work, but the texture won’t be quite as crispy.
Fresh Herbs: I love using fresh parsley, rosemary, and thyme for flavor. If you don’t have them fresh, try dried herbs, but use less since dried herbs are stronger. About a third of the amount usually works.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds richness to the crust. If you want a dairy-free option, skip it or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Lemon Zest: It brightens up the dish! If you’re out of lemons, try a splash of vinegar for some acidity instead.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Juicy and Flavorful?
The secret to juicy pork chops is not overcooking them. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Also, letting the chops rest after cooking helps them stay moist by redistributing the juices.
- Preheat your oven properly to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t rush the searing process! A good golden crust adds flavor.
- Let the rest period do its magic—about 5 minutes will suffice!
Herb Crusted Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 40 minutes to prepare and cook. That includes diving into prepping the ingredients, searing the pork chops, and baking them to perfection. You’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Herb Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest if you’re using it. Stir everything together well to make sure all the flavors mix nicely.
3. Coat the Pork Chops:
Using a brush or your hands, apply 2 tablespoons of olive oil on both sides of each pork chop. This will help the herb crust stick better and add flavor.
4. Crust the Pork Chops:
Take each pork chop and press it firmly into the herb and breadcrumb mixture. Make sure both sides are coated well to get that crunchy crust that everyone will love.
5. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large ovenproof skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the pork chops to the skillet and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the crust is golden brown.
6. Bake the Pork Chops:
After searing, carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the pork chops for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll want to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) to ensure they’re cooked through.
7. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period is essential to keep them juicy!
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, add a garnish of fresh rosemary sprigs on top for a beautiful presentation. Serve with your favorite sides, like a fresh green salad and grains or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Enjoy your flavorful, crispy herb crusted pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just be sure to reduce the cooking time slightly, as they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the herb crust and coat the pork chops earlier in the day. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. If you’re making them the next day, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before searing.
What Should I Serve with Herb Crusted Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or grains like quinoa or rice. You can also serve them with mashed potatoes for a heartier meal!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or microwave to maintain the crust’s crispiness!
