I’ve always been a fan of grilling pork chops, but since I’ve been without a grill for the past few months, I’ve had to find an alternative. That’s when I discovered the wonders of broiling! These easy broiled pork chops turned out to be a game-changer – they’re fast, juicy, and pair well with a variety of side dishes!
Choosing the Best Cut for Broiling
When selecting pork chops for broiling, it’s important to find cuts that are neither too thick nor too thin. I recommend using bone-in pork chops that are approximately 1/2-inch thick. This ensures that they cook through without burning. If you prefer boneless chops, just be cautious as they can dry out quickly if overcooked.
The Perfect Spice Mix
While you can use your favorite meat dry rub for these pork chops, keep in mind that certain spice mixes may burn due to the direct heat from the broiler. It’s best to avoid rubs with high sugar content or delicate herbs. I personally love a simple spice mix consisting of salt, pepper, granulated garlic, and sweet paprika. For a smoky kick, you can also try using smoked paprika.
Preparing the Pork Chops for Broiling
To ensure even cooking, remove the pork chops from the fridge 20-30 minutes before cooking. This allows them to come to room temperature, resulting in more evenly cooked meat. During this resting period, I recommend rubbing the pork chops with the spice mix so that the flavors have a chance to penetrate the meat.
Broiling the Pork Chops
Before broiling, it’s a good idea to turn on any kitchen fans and open a window to prevent excessive smoke caused by the intense heat. Place the pork chops under the preheated broiler and cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side. Then, flip them and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
To ensure that the pork chops are cooked to perfection, it’s always a good practice to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 140˚F in the thickest part of the chop. Once out of the broiler, feel free to sprinkle them with a little extra spice mix for added flavor.
These broiled pork chops are incredibly juicy and make for a fantastic alternative when a grill isn’t available. Even with access to a grill, I find myself still opting for this cooking method from time to time!
Pairing Suggestions
When it comes to serving broiled pork chops, the possibilities are endless! You can pair them with starches like mashed potatoes, rice, or even a smaller pasta. Lately, I’ve been enjoying them with couscous, which adds a delightful texture.
For vegetables, steamed options like broccoli complement the pork chops nicely. Alternatively, you can keep it fresh with a large salad.
Looking for More Pork Recipes?
If you’re in the mood for more pork dishes, here are a few recommendations:
- Grilled Pork Shoulder Steaks
- Pulled Pork Tortas
- Braised Pork Shoulder
- Balsamic Roasted Pork Sandwiches
- Easy Pork Schnitzel from Recipe Critic
Remember, there’s always something delicious to be cooked up at Hook’d Up Bar and Grill – your go-to destination for great food and drinks.