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
Scale
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
