Sicilian Herb-Crusted Pork Chops Recipe
Introduction
This Sicilian herb-crusted pork chop recipe offers a bright, aromatic twist on a classic dish. Infused with fresh herbs, lemon, and a hint of spice, these chops are juicy and flavorful—perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges and extra parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, rosemary, oregano, parsley, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to form a marinade.
- Step 2: Rub the marinade all over the pork chops and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
- Step 3: Heat a cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Step 4: Sear the pork chops for 4–5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Step 5: Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Step 6: Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For even more flavor, marinate the pork chops overnight in the refrigerator.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked perfectly without drying out.
- Try swapping fresh oregano for thyme or basil to change the herb profile.
- If you prefer less heat, omit the red pepper flakes.
Storage
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving to prevent dryness.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use boneless pork chops instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops will work, but keep an eye on cooking time as they may cook faster and can dry out more easily.
What should I serve with Sicilian herb-crusted pork chops?
This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes for a balanced meal.
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Sicilian Herb-Crusted Pork Chops Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes (including 30 minutes marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Sicilian Herb-Crusted Pork Chops recipe features juicy, bone-in pork chops marinated in a vibrant blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon. The pork chops are seared to perfection in a skillet, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic crust that captures the essence of Sicilian cuisine. Perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner, these chops are garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a bright finish.
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish
- Lemon wedges
- Extra fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest and juice, chopped rosemary, oregano, parsley, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Pork Chops: Rub the marinade evenly all over the pork chops. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor absorption.
- Heat the Skillet: Warm a cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat to ensure a good sear on the pork chops.
- Sear the Pork Chops: Place the pork chops in the hot skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), ensuring they are cooked through but still juicy.
- Rest the Meat: Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and flavorful.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the pork chops garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges to add a fresh, zesty finish.
Notes
- Marinating for longer enhances the herb flavors and tenderness of the pork chops.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
- Optional red pepper flakes add a subtle heat; adjust according to your preference.
- Bone-in pork chops retain more moisture and flavor during cooking.
- Letting the meat rest after cooking is crucial for juicy pork chops.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Sicilian
Keywords: Sicilian pork chops, herb crusted pork, lemon pork chops, skillet pork chops, easy pork dinner, bone-in pork chops

