How to Cook Thick Pork Chops

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Learn how easy it is to cook thick pork chops that are perfectly juicy, tender, and moist. Seasoned with a special dry rub to add extra flavor, pan-seared, and finished in the oven- this will be your new go-to pork chop recipe! Dinner is ready in 30 minutes.

Try my thin pork chops recipe next!

finished perfectly cooked pork chops on a white plate.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Do you love pork chop recipes? Try this stuffed pork chops recipe and oven-baked pork chops! You will also enjoy this oven-roasted pork tenderloin and porchetta roast recipe. Make sure to get some no-knead ciabatta bread for the sauce!

Simple Ingredients

Recipe ingredients for thick pork chops recipe.
  • Pork Chops – The star of the dish! Choose thick-cut, bone-in pork chops for the juiciest results and deepest flavor. The thickness helps lock in moisture during cooking.
  • Olive Oil – Used to sear the chops and help the seasonings adhere. It also adds a subtle fruity richness and prevents sticking in the pan.
  • Butter – Adds richness and flavor during the final cooking stage. Basting the pork chops with melted butter gives them that golden, flavorful crust.
  • Salt and Black Pepper – Classic seasonings that bring out the natural flavor of the meat. Essential for every good pork chop.

Dry Rub for Pork Chops – A flavorful mix of spices that builds a caramelized crust and layers of savory-sweet taste.

  • Garlic Powder – Adds a savory, earthy depth without the risk of burning fresh garlic.
  • Brown Sugar – Helps the rub caramelize as it cooks, balancing the savory spices with a touch of sweetness.
  • Paprika – Brings mild heat and a smoky warmth.
  • Chili Powder – Adds a subtle heat without overpowering the other flavors.
  • Fresh Thyme & Rosemary (finely chopped) – These herbs add a fresh, aromatic finish that elevates the richness of the pork. Chopping them finely ensures they infuse the butter as you baste.

See the recipe card for quantities.

Substitutions and Variations

  • Olive Oil – Avocado oil works well for high heat searing, or use canola oil in a pinch.
  • Butter – Try ghee for a nutty flavor or skip for a lighter version.
  • Brown Sugar – Coconut sugar, maple syrup, or a touch of honey give a similar caramelized finish. You’ll love my dry rub for ribs.
  • Garlic Powder – Swap for onion powder or use fresh minced garlic if searing carefully.
  • Smoky BBQ – Use smoked paprika and add a dash of cumin for a smoky, grilled flavor—even indoors. Try my juicy grilled pork chops!
  • Spicy Kick – Mix in cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.

How Long To Cook Pork Chops Guide

  • 1-inch thick chop: Cook for 3-4 minutes per side for a total of 6-8 minutes over high heat. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, and 170°F (77°C) for well-done.
  • 1.5-inch thick chop: Cook for 4-5 minutes per side for a total of 8-10 minutes over high heat. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, and 170°F (77°C) for well-done.
  • 2-inch thick chop: Cook for 5-6 minutes per side for a total of 10-12 minutes over high heat. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, and 170°F (77°C) for well-done.

How to Cook Thick Pork Chops

You will achieve the best pork chops with these simple steps. This is a visual overview of the recipe. See the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post for more.

Step-by-step photos for How to cook thick pork chops- season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper.

Step #1: Thoroughly pat the meat dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. 

Step-by-step photos for How to cook thick pork chops- combine the seasoning ingredients in a bowl.

Step #2: Add the dry rub ingredients to a small bowl.

Step-by-step photos for How to cook thick pork chops- combine the seasoning ingredients in a bowl. Stir to combine.

Step #3: Mix the dry rub to fully combine.

Step-by-step photos for How to cook thick pork chops- season pork chops with seasoning mix.

Step #4: Apply the dry rub to both sides of the pork chops, making sure to rub it into the meat. Let the pork chops sit for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking to allow the flavors to meld. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. 

Step-by-step photos for How to cook thick pork chops- adding pork chops to hot skillet with oil.

Step #5: Heat the cast iron skillet or large oven-safe pan over medium-high heat until hot, then add the olive oil, swirling to coat the pan. Sear chops on each side for 2-3 minutes until they are nice and golden brown.

Step-by-step photos for How to cook thick pork chops- sear both sides of the pork chops and add a pat of butter to each.

Step #6: Add one pat of butter on top of each pork chop. Transfer the skillet with pork chops to the preheated oven and bake until the pork chops internal temperature reaches at least 145° F—about 20-25 minutes. Remember that the meat will rise in temperature an additional 5 degrees after resting.

Step-by-step photos for How to cook thick pork chops- finish cooking pork chops in oven until perfectly cooked.

Step #7: Total cooking time will be variable due to the pork’s exact thickness, doneness preference, and starting temperature. See recipe notes in the recipe card and cooking guide above.

finished perfectly cooked pork chops on a white plate.

Step #8: Remove pork chops to a plate and loosely cover with aluminum foil. Let rest for 10 minutes. Serve with the butter pan drippings on top of the pork chops.

My Pro Tip

Recipe Tips

  • Cook your meat at room temperature, not directly from the refrigerator. Take the meat out about 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Pat dry – use paper towels to gently pat the steaks dry, ensuring a perfect sear and minimizing oil splatter.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan. This will maintain a consistent temperature, ensuring the pork chop cooks evenly.
  • Make sure the pan is sizzling hot when you first add the thick pork chop to it. This will prevent sticking and create a perfect sear and nice crust.
  • Use the doneness chart to cook them to your preferred doneness.
  • Let your pork chop REST! After going through all the trouble to cook the perfect pork chop, this is an essential step. Allow it to rest on a baking sheet or plate for 10 minutes after cooking, covered loosely with foil to keep it warm. This way, the juices can redistribute throughout the pork, making the pork chop more tender and juicy.

This recipe pairs perfectly with outstanding side dishes for pork chops. Here are a few ideas: Crispy Brussels SproutsCreamy Cauliflower BakeOven Roasted Potatoes, Creamed Spinach, Tuscan Broccoli, or sautéed frozen green beans.

cooked thick pork chops on plate with potatoes and carrots.

FAQ’s

Can I pan-sear and oven-bake thick pork chops?

Yes! Pan-searing and oven-baking is a popular cooking method for thick pork chops that helps to create a crispy crust on the outside while keeping the meat juicy and tender on the inside. Sear the pork chops in a hot skillet and then transfer them to a preheated oven to finish cooking. This is precisely what we do in this recipe, and it is a tried and true method.

How do you know when thick pork chops are done?

For a 1.5-inch to 2-inch thick pork chop, the internal temperature and corresponding doneness preferences are:

– 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare
– 155-165°F (71°C) for medium, medium-well
– Anything cooked longer risks a dry pork chop
It’s important to note that pork should be cooked to at least 145°F (63°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.

How to tell when pork chops are done

The best way to know when your thick pork chops are done is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the pork chop and check the temperature. The safe internal temperature for pork is 145°F for medium-rare and 160°F for medium.

What Type of Pork Chops Are Best for this recipe?

You will find different kinds of pork chops at your local grocery store, or local butcher chop. You can buy bone-in pork chops or boneless chops.
– Loin Chops or Porterhouse Chops: Center-cut loin chops with a T-shaped bone; the loin is on one side of the bone, the tenderloin on the other. Great for grilling, baking, or broiling.
– New York or Center-Cut Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops from the top loin. Try frying, stuffing, or baking your New York chops.
– Sirloin Chop: A less expensive cut from the back end of the loin. By comparison, a tougher cut; a great choice for slow braising. I do not recommend this recipe.
– Rib Chops: Tender, center-cut thick chops with a curved bone on one side. Great for quick-cooking methods like pan frying, grilling, and broiling.

sliced thick pork chop nice and juicy interior.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store your leftover pork chops in 3 easy steps:

  1. Allow the pork chops to cool to room temperature before storing them. This will help prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the meat soggy.
  2. Store the pork chops in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help to prevent air from getting in and keep the meat fresh.
  3. Store the pork chops in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you need to store them for longer, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months.
  4. To reheat the leftover pork chops, you can either reheat them in the microwave, in a skillet on the stove, or in the oven. Be sure to heat them to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to ensure they are safe to eat. Enjoy!
Lots of thick pork chop slices on a plate with potatoes and carrots. Pan sauce on top of thick pork chop slices.

More Tasty Pork Chop Recipes To Try

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5 from 5 votes

Thick Cut Pork Chops Recipe

Servings: 4 servings
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
Thick cut pork chops in a skillet.
Learn how easy it is to cook 1 ½ to 2-inch thick pork chops that are perfectly juicy, tender, and moist. Seasoned with a special dry rub to add extra flavor, pan-seared, and finished in the oven- this will be your new go-to pork chop recipe!

Ingredients 

Pork Chops 

  • 3 pork chops , 1.5 – 2" thick each
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons butter, divided into 3 pieces
  • Salt and Pepper

Dry Rub for Pork Chops

  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¾ teaspoon paprika
  • ¾ teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped

Instructions 

  • Thoroughly pat the meat dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. 
  • Mix the dry rub ingredients in a small bowl and then apply the dry rub to both sides of the pork chops, making sure to rub it into the meat. Let the pork chops sit for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking to allow the flavors to meld. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. 
  • Heat the cast iron skillet or large oven-safe pan over medium-high heat until hot, then add the olive oil, swirling to coat the pan. Sear chops on each side for 2-3 minutes until they are nice and golden brown.
  • Add one pat of butter on top of each pork chop. Transfer the skillet with pork chops to the preheated oven and bake the chops until an internal temperature of at least 145° F—about 15-20 minutes. Remember that the meat will rise in temperature an additional 5 degrees after resting. Total cooking time will be variable due to the pork's exact thickness, doneness preference, and starting temperature. See recipe notes and use a
    meat thermometer. 
  • Remove pork chops to a plate and loosely cover with aluminum foil. Let rest for 10 minutes. 
  • Serve with the butter pan drippings on top of the pork chops. Serve with potatoes, rice, and vegetables or a green salad. Enjoy!

Notes

Pork Doneness Guide 

Take the meat out of the oven 5 degree below your desired doneness as it continues to cook during the 10 minutes of resting. 
Cooked Pork Level Internal Temperature Comments
Rare less than 145° Not recommended.
Not safe per the USDA
Medium-Rare 145°-150° A touch of pink
Medium 150°-155° Pink disappears, a little dryer
Medium-Well 155°-160° Starting to dry significantly
Well Done 160°+ Not recommended.
Getting very dry
For pork chops, pork loin, and pork tenderloin.

Nutrition

Calories: 354kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 22gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 0.4gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 127mgPotassium: 437mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 13gVitamin A: 575IUVitamin C: 0.4mgCalcium: 26mgIron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Tried this recipe?Mention @cucinabyelena or tag #cucinabyelena!

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About Elena

My dream is to share delicious wholesome recipes that you will share around the table with all your loved ones. The memories surrounded by food are the heart and soul of CucinaByElena.

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Recipe Rating




15 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    I had given up on making pork chops until I found this recipe. They were delicious! I will definitely make again, which is always the test of a good recipe for me.

    1. They are large, so you can cut to serve. With that said, you can adjust the portions to your needs and double the recipe etc.

  2. 5 stars
    What’s better than thick, juicy and tender chops?? Not much!! Mine turned out great, but judging by the pictures, yours are even better.