Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a culinary journey through the sun-drenched landscapes of Greece! These Stove Top Greek Pork Chops are not just a meal; they're a flavor explosion that combines the rustic charm of traditional Greek cooking with the simplicity of a quick weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients and 25 minutes of your time, you'll create a dish that's so deliciously authentic, you'll feel like you've been transported to a charming taverna overlooking the Aegean Sea.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear.
- In a small bowl, mix oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create a seasoning blend.
- Generously season both sides of the pork chops with the prepared spice mixture, pressing the seasoning gently into the meat.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and is hot but not smoking.
- Carefully place the seasoned pork chops into the hot skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Cook the pork chops for 4-5 minutes on the first side, allowing a golden-brown crust to develop.
- Flip the pork chops and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pork chops during the last minute of cooking for added brightness.
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the rested pork chops just before serving.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with additional fresh herbs like parsley or additional lemon wedges.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork chops sit at room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and a perfect sear.
- Moisture Management: Pat the pork chops completely dry before seasoning. This crucial step helps achieve that gorgeous golden-brown crust that locks in flavor.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook your pork chops in batches if necessary. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of searing, which means goodbye crispy exterior!
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked pork, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures juicy, tender meat every single time.
- Let It Rest: Always allow your pork chops to rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh lemon juice and high-quality feta cheese to elevate the authentic Greek flavors of this dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 95mg
