These Texas Roadhouse style juicy pork chops are tender and full of flavor! Grilled to perfection and coated in a tasty seasoning, they’re a real treat for your taste buds.
Every bite reminds me of fun dinners out. I like to serve them with some mashed potatoes and green beans. It feels like a celebration on a plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops work best for flavor and juiciness. If you can’t find them, boneless chops are a good alternative, but they may not stay as moist.
Olive Oil: This is great for its good flavor and healthy fats. If you’re looking for a different taste, you can use melted butter or avocado oil instead.
Spices: Garlic powder and onion powder are key to building depth in flavor. If you’re out of any spices, minced garlic and fresh onions can work in a pinch—just use less as they are stronger.
Cayenne Pepper: This adds a bit of heat, but it’s optional. For a milder flavor, you can skip it or use paprika instead for a smoky flavor without heat.
Butter: It adds richness when basting. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute will also work.
How Do You Get the Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
Searing the pork chops right is essential for juicy, flavorful meat. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Dry the Chops: Patting them dry helps create a good crust when searing.
- Preheat the Grill or Skillet: Make sure it’s hot! You want a nice sizzle when the meat hits the surface.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if needed; this prevents steaming and ensures each chop gets that lovely crust.
- Don’t Flip Too Soon: Let them cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes. Wait until you see grill marks or they easily lift off the pan.
Following these tips will help achieve that mouth-watering sear you want in your Texas Roadhouse style pork chops!
Texas Roadhouse Style Juicy Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup beef broth or apple juice (for basting and moisture)
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and 10-15 minutes for cooking, so you can have delicious pork chops ready in about 30 minutes. Plus, they need a short resting time before serving to ensure they’re juicy and flavorful.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Begin by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is really important as it helps you achieve a nice sear on the chops, adding to their flavor.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you want a little kick. Now, drizzle olive oil over the pork chops and rub it in. Coat both sides generously with the seasoning mixture until evenly coated.
3. Preheat Grill or Skillet:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat (about 400°F). If you prefer a skillet, heat a heavy skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat on the stove.
4. Cook the Pork Chops:
Place the seasoned pork chops on the hot grill or skillet. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes on the first side until you see grill marks and the chop releases easily. Then, flip them over to the other side!
5. Add Butter and Broth:
It’s time to add flavor! Put the butter in the pan and pour beef broth or apple juice around the chops (don’t pour it on top to keep those seasonings intact). As they cook, baste the chops occasionally with this mixture using a spoon for about 4-5 more minutes. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.
6. Rest the Pork Chops:
Once cooked, take the chops off the grill or skillet and loosely cover them with foil. Give them about 5 minutes to rest; this keeps them juicy!
7. Serve:
Finally, garnish your pork chops with extra dried thyme or fresh parsley if you’d like. Pair them with favorite sides like steamed broccoli or mashed potatoes and don’t forget a dipping sauce if you love! Enjoy your meal!
Enjoy your perfectly juicy, flavorful Texas Roadhouse style pork chops!
FAQ for Texas Roadhouse Style Juicy Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops if you prefer! Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster, so be sure to check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Use Instead of Beef Broth?
If you don’t have beef broth on hand, apple juice is a great substitute that adds a touch of sweetness! You can also use chicken broth or vegetable broth for an alternative flavor that works well too.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
Can I Marinade the Pork Chops Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops in the seasoning mixture overnight can enhance the flavor even more. Just be sure to pat them dry before cooking the next day for that beautiful sear!
