How to Cook Pork Loin Chops So They Are Tender

Pork loin chops can be a delicious and easy dinner option for busy weeknights. However, it can be frustrating when the pork chops turn out dry, chewy, and lacking flavor. The good news is that with a few simple techniques, you can cook pork loin chops so that they turn out juicy, tender and full of flavor every time.

Choosing the Right Chops

The first step is selecting the right pork chops at the store Look for chops that are at least 1 inch thick, preferably bone-in, from the loin or rib area Thicker chops will be juicier and more tender since they have more time to cook through without drying out. Bone-in chops also retain more moisture during cooking. Avoid very thin chops which will overcook quickly.

Proper Seasoning

Seasoning is key for maximum flavor. At a minimum, generously season both sides of the chops with salt and pepper. For extra flavor, use a spice rub containing herbs like thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, paprika or cumin. Let the seasoning penetrate the meat for at least 15-30 minutes before cooking.

Getting a Good Sear

Searing the chops before cooking them through is pivotal for caramelization and flavor development. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add just enough oil to lightly coat the bottom When the oil is shimmering, add the chops and let them sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until nicely browned Resist the urge to move them around initially. Then flip and repeat on the second side.

Gentle Cooking

Here is where the magic happens for tender chops. After searing both sides, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pan with a lid. The trapped heat from the pan will gently cook the chops through without overcooking the exterior. Cook covered for 5-8 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Alternatively, you can transfer the seared chops to a 400°F oven and roast until 145°F, 15-20 minutes. The ambient heat of the oven gently finishes cooking without drying them out.

Resting

Letting the cooked chops rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting allows time for the juices to redistribute so they stay moist and tender when you cut into them. Dig in while hot!

Putting it All Together

Follow these simple steps for guaranteed tender, juicy pork loin chops:

• Choose 1-inch thick bone-in rib or loin chops
• Generously season chops and let sit 15-30 minutes
• Sear chops in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side
• Reduce heat to medium-low, cover pan and cook 5-8 minutes until 145°F
• Rest 5-10 minutes before serving

Cooking Methods for Maximum Tenderness

Here are some more techniques for keeping pork chops tender:

Pan Sear and Bake: Sear both sides in a hot skillet, then transfer to a 400°F oven and bake until 145°F internal temperature.

Braise: Brown chops then braise in a flavorful liquid like broth, wine or barbecue sauce on the stovetop or in the oven.

Grill: Get color and flavor by grilling over direct heat, then move to indirect heat, cover grill to finish cooking.

Sous Vide: Cook in a water bath at 140°F for 1-4 hours depending on thickness for ultimate tenderness.

Slow Cooker: Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours in liquid; chops must be at least 2 inches thick.

Common Mistakes

Here are some pitfalls to avoid when cooking pork chops:

• Using chops that are too thin – go for at least 1-inch thickness
• Not searing before cooking through
• Cooking at too high heat without liquid
• Overcooking past 145°F internal temperature
• Cutting into chops before they have rested

Marinades and Sauces

Marinating pork chops for 30 minutes up to overnight infuses them with extra moisture and flavor. Try marinades with acidic ingredients like lemon juice, vinegar, yogurt or buttermilk which tenderize the meat.

For extra moisture, braise or simmer chops in flavorful sauces like barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, salsa, creamy mushroom sauce, etc. Apply glazes and sauces during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.

Doneness Temperature

Use an instant read thermometer to test doneness – pork is safe to eat and juicy at 145°F. If reheating previously cooked chops, reheat to 165°F.

Serving Suggestions

Jazz up your tender juicy pork chops with:

• Sauteed apples or grilled peaches
• Loaded baked potatoes
• Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots or asparagus
• Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
• Quinoa salad or roasted sweet potatoes
• Skillet cornbread or buttermilk biscuits

With these simple tricks for choosing, seasoning, searing, gentle cooking and resting, you will be rewarded with irresistibly tender, juicy pork loin chops every time. What are you waiting for? Go make some tonight!