Pork chops are an easy way to make a quick and tasty meal. They are also versatile, and can be made with just about any sauce you have lying around. The key is to season them well before cooking, which will help them taste their best.
Cooking pork chops to be soft is a little more challenging than it is for chicken or beef, but it’s not impossible. You can follow a few simple steps to ensure your chops are cooked to perfection and will be juicy and tender.
Start by seasoning the chops generously with salt half an hour before cooking. This will allow the salt to have time to soak into the meat and improve both its flavor and texture.
Tip #1: Take the pork out of the refrigerator before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This is a good trick for many cuts of meat, including pork chops, which can quickly dry out in the fridge and lose their tenderness.
Once at room temperature, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and place the pork chops in an ovenproof skillet (cast iron is ideal). When they’re fully browned on one side, flip them over and bake for 10 minutes. The pork will be done when it registers an internal temperature of 145 F on a thermometer.
Searing the pork before baking helps create a crust that seals in the juices. This also creates a crispy exterior that prevents the chops from drying out in the oven.
Using a splatter screen in the pan will help prevent oil splatters. It’s also a good idea to sear on both sides of the pork chop before transferring them to the oven, as it will help them brown and crisp faster in the oven.
When you’re ready to serve your chops, remove them from the pan and transfer them to a plate. Cover with foil and let them rest for a few minutes to allow the pork to rest before serving.
Then, pour some of your favorite pan sauce over the pork chops and serve them with a green salad or some mashed potatoes. It’s a delicious meal that’s sure to be a hit with the entire family.
Another great way to cook soft pork chops is by marinating them in a brine for an extended period of time before cooking. This will break down the proteins in the pork chop and help it to become more tender.
In addition, a brine can make the pork chops more flavorful and add an extra layer of protection against drying out.
In addition to these tips, a meat thermometer is an essential tool for making sure your pork chops are cooked through without risking overcooking them. It will be the only way to guarantee that your meat is done at the right temperature.