Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering Mexican-inspired feast that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds! These Cilantro Garlic Pork Chops are not just a meal; they're a culinary adventure that combines the bold, zesty punch of fresh cilantro with the rich, aromatic depth of garlic, all perfectly seared to juicy perfection. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress or simply craving a restaurant-quality dish that's ridiculously easy to make, this recipe is about to become your new weeknight superhero!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 pork chops, 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro (chopped), 4 cloves of garlic (minced), 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help achieve a nice sear on the chops.
- In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped cilantro, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
- Rub the marinade generously over both sides of the pork chops, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow the pork chops to marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature to absorb the flavors.
- While the pork chops are marinating, preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the pork chops.
- Once the skillet is hot, add the marinated pork chops. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them, allowing a nice golden-brown crust to form.
- After 4-5 minutes, flip the pork chops over and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist.
- While the pork chops are resting, you can prepare a simple side salad or serve them with rice or vegetables to complete the meal.
- After resting, serve the pork chops warm, garnished with any remaining cilantro if desired. Enjoy your Cilantro Garlic Pork Chops!
Tips
- Pat those pork chops bone-dry before seasoning! Moisture is the enemy of a perfect golden-brown sear, so use paper towels to remove any excess liquid.
- Let your pork chops marinate at room temperature for maximum flavor absorption. The 10-minute rest allows the garlic and cilantro to work their magic.
- Use a hot skillet and resist the urge to move the chops around. A consistent, undisturbed sear is key to developing that delicious crust.
- Invest in a meat thermometer to nail the perfect 145°F internal temperature. This ensures juicy, perfectly cooked pork every single time.
- Always let your pork chops rest after cooking. Those 5 minutes allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and succulent.Pro tip: For an extra flavor boost, try using bone-in pork chops, which tend to be more flavorful and stay juicier during cooking!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 80mg
