Pork chops are a quick and easy dinner staple that can be prepared so many ways. While grilling, baking, and broiling pork chops are all great options, pan-frying is one of the quickest and tastiest cooking methods. Figuring out exactly how long to fry pork chops can seem tricky though. Undercook them and you risk serving undercooked pork, but overcook them and you’ll end up with dry, tough meat. So what’s the secret to pan-frying pork chops to juicy, golden brown perfection? Read on to find out.
What Are The Different Types Of Pork Chops?
Before we get into frying times, it’s helpful to understand the different cuts of pork chops available. The three main types are:
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Boneless pork chops – These are cut from the loin and have had the bone removed They cook quickly since they are thinner
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Bone-in rib chops – Taken from the rib section, these chops have a curved bone running along one side. They are moist and flavorful
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Bone-in loin chops – Cut from the loin these chops are thicker with a T-shaped bone. They take longer to cook than other cuts.
Thinner boneless chops cook faster than thick bone-in varieties. Keep the thickness of your chops in mind when determining cook times.
Key Steps For Pan-Frying Pork Chops
Pan-frying uses a minimal amount of oil to quickly cook and brown food in a skillet on the stovetop. When frying pork chops, follow these steps for the best results:
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Use a heavy skillet – Cast iron or stainless steel work best to evenly conduct heat. Avoid nonstick which can cause sticking.
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Heat the oil – Use an oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola or avocado oil. Heat it over medium-high heat until shimmering.
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Dry chops thoroughly – Pat chops very dry with paper towels. Any moisture causes splattering when pan-frying.
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Season chops – Generously season both sides with salt, pepper and any other spices. Seasoning adds lots of flavor.
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Dredge in flour – Lightly coat chops in flour which helps achieve a crispy crust. Gently shake off excess flour.
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Brown the meat – Add chops to the hot skillet. Resist moving them so they brown properly. Cook approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
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Check for doneness – Pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F. The juices should run clear with no pink remaining.
Following these simple steps helps ensure your pork chops come out juicy and delicious every time. Now let’s look at exactly how long you should fry pork chops.
Pan-Frying Times For Different Pork Chop Thicknesses
The most important factor determining how long to fry pork chops is their thickness. Thinner chops fry faster than thick ones. Here are general guidelines based on thickness:
Thin chops (1/2 inch or less)
- Cook time: 2-3 minutes per side
Thin boneless or breakfast chops cook quickly. Fry just until browned and cooked through, flipping once. Total cook time is 4-6 minutes.
Medium chops (1/2 – 1 inch)
- Cook time: 3-4 minutes per side
For thicker bone-in or boneless chops, increase cook times slightly. Fry until browned and juices run clear, flipping once. Total time is 6-8 minutes.
Thick chops (over 1 inch)
- Cook time: 4-5 minutes per side
Thick bone-in loin or rib chops need more time to cook through without drying out. Fry until well-browned and cooked through, flipping once. Total cook time is 8-10 minutes.
Use these cook times as a guide, adjusting up or down depending on thickness. Always check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of a chop.
Tips For Perfectly Pan-Fried Pork Chops
Keep these tips in mind for pork chops with crispy, golden crusts and juicy interiors:
- Pat chops very dry before cooking for best browning
- Use a digital thermometer to check doneness (145°F)
- Allow chops to rest 5 minutes before serving
- Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan
- Add a tablespoon of butter to the pan for extra flavor
- Try a buttermilk soak for ultra tender and juicy chops
With the right technique, pan-frying results in pork chops with textures that rival grilling or baking, with crispy crusts and moist, flavorful meat.
How To Tell If Your Pork Chops Are Done Frying
It can be tricky knowing exactly when pan-fried pork chops are fully cooked but not overdone. Here are some ways to test for doneness:
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Use a meat thermometer – Thermometers take the guesswork out of frying pork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F.
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Check juices – When pierced or cut, properly cooked chops will exude clear juices. Any traces of pink mean they need more time.
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Look for browning – The exterior should be nicely browned. Chops that are still pale need longer cooking.
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Test texture – When fully cooked, chops feel firm vs. soft when pressed. Meat near the bone may still look slightly pink when done.
Checking chops in multiple ways helps avoid under or overcooking. Remember, they will continue cooking slightly after removing from the skillet.
Common Questions About Frying Pork Chops
How long does it take to fry thin pork chops?
Thin boneless or breakfast chops take just 2-3 minutes per side, or 4-6 minutes total.
Should you flip pork chops while frying?
Yes, flipping halfway through is important to cook both sides evenly until browned and cooked through.
Do you put flour on pork chops before frying?
Lightly dredging chops in flour helps create a crispy, flavorful crust when pan-frying.
What oil is best for frying pork chops?
Opt for oils with high smoke points like vegetable, canola or avocado oil. Avoid olive oil which can burn.
Delicious Pan-Fried Pork Chop Recipes To Try
Now that you know precisely how long to pan-fry pork chops for perfectly cooked results, give these tasty recipes a try:
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Easy Pan-Fried Pork Chops – Crispy, flavorful chops fried in butter and oil.
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Buttermilk Fried Pork Chops – Ultra tender chops soaked in buttermilk then fried.
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Cajun Pork Chops – Spicy and seasoned chops with a crisp, Cajun-inspired coating.
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Breaded Pork Chops – Chops dredged in seasoned breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
With the right timing, pan-frying is one of the quickest and tastiest ways to prepare juicy, golden pork chops for dinner. Follow these guidelines on how long to fry pork chops based on thickness for perfect results every time. Now it’s time to fire up that skillet and enjoy tasty pan-fried pork chops tonight!