Thin cut pork chops are a weeknight dinner staple across many cultures due to their quick cook time, versatility, and rich, satisfying flavor. Whether grilled, pan-seared, or oven-baked, these chops absorb marinades beautifully and cook in minutes, making them ideal for busy home cooks. Their roots span from American Southern cuisine to Asian-style soy-based preparations, each bringing a unique blend of flavor and technique.
Ingredients
For 4 servings:
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4 thin cut pork chops (about ¼ to ½ inch thick)
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2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
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1 tbsp unsalted butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp onion powder
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1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
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Juice of ½ lemon
Optional for marinade (30 min prior):
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2 tbsp soy sauce
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1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
Substitutions:
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Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
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Dairy-free: Skip butter or use plant-based butter.
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Low sodium: Reduce salt and use low-sodium soy sauce.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Prep the Chops:
Pat pork chops dry with paper towels to help them sear properly. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and thyme. -
Optional Marinade:
Combine soy sauce, honey, and mustard. Marinate pork chops for 30 minutes in the fridge for added flavor and tenderness. -
Preheat Skillet:
Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add butter and let it melt. -
Sear the Pork Chops:
Place chops in the pan without overcrowding. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and internal temperature hits 145°F (63°C). -
Rest and Finish:
Squeeze lemon juice over chops and let them rest for 3–5 minutes before serving to retain juices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
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Overcooking: Thin chops cook fast. Use a meat thermometer.
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Crowding the pan: Sear in batches for the best browning.
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Skipping the rest time: This step ensures juiciness.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Use a cast iron skillet for the best caramelization and even heat.
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Baste with butter and herbs like rosemary or sage in the final 30 seconds for flavor.
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Pound chops lightly if they’re uneven in thickness to ensure even cooking.
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Let them come to room temperature for 10–15 minutes before cooking for better results.
Variations and Customizations
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Asian Style: Marinate in soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
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Smoky BBQ: Rub with a dry spice blend and grill with BBQ sauce.
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Low-Carb/Keto: Use ghee instead of butter and skip the sweeteners.
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Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute with pan-seared marinated tofu slabs or cauliflower steaks.
Serving Suggestions
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Presentation: Serve on a warm plate, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
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Sides:
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Garlic mashed potatoes
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Roasted Brussels sprouts
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Apple slaw
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Steamed rice or quinoa
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Sauces: Mushroom cream sauce, honey-mustard glaze, or balsamic reduction.
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Beverages: Dry white wine, apple cider, or iced herbal tea.Nutritional Information (per serving)
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Calories: ~290
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Protein: 28g
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Carbohydrates: 2g
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Fat: 18g
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Fiber: 0g
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Sodium: 400mg (varies by marinade)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I bake thin cut pork chops instead?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (204°C) for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
3. Can I freeze cooked pork chops?
Yes. Wrap in foil or freezer-safe bags and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
4. What if my pork chops are too dry?
Try marinating before cooking, and avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to remove from heat at 145°F.
5. How thin is “thin”?
Generally, ¼ to ½ inch thick. Anything thinner may dry out quickly; thicker ones require longer cooking.
Closing Thoughts
Thin cut pork chops are proof that a fast dinner can still be full of flavor and charm. With a few techniques and variations, you can turn this humble cut into a gourmet experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment—try different seasonings, sides, and methods until you find your perfect chop.
Tried this recipe? Let us know how it turned out or share your twist in the comments!
