Description
Sicilian Pork Chops are a deliciously juicy and flavorful dish prepared in just 30 minutes. Infused with fresh herbs like rosemary, oregano, and parsley, alongside garlic and bright lemon zest and juice, these bone-in chops are pan-seared to perfection for a tender and aromatic meal that highlights classic Sicilian flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
Seasonings and Marinade
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 lemon, zest
- 1 lemon, juice
- 0.25 cup olive oil
Optional Garnishes
- Lemon slices
- Fresh herbs
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped parsley, rosemary, oregano, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Pork Chops: Place the bone-in pork chops in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chops, ensuring they are fully coated. Let them marinate for at least 20 minutes to absorb the herbs and citrus flavors fully.
- Preheat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the pan hot before adding the chops to achieve a perfect sear.
- Cook the Pork Chops: Remove pork chops from the marinade and place them in the hot skillet. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until they develop a golden-brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), ensuring juicy and safe-to-eat pork.
- Rest and Serve: Transfer the cooked pork chops to a plate and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh herbs if desired before serving.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the chops for at least 20 minutes but no longer than 2 hours to avoid overpowering the pork.
- Use fresh herbs for the most vibrant flavor; dried herbs can be substituted but reduce quantity by half.
- Ensure the pork chops are at room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed to maintain a good sear.
- Resting the meat after cooking is crucial to retain its juices.
