How To Cook Thin Pork Chops

Jump to Recipe Save Recipe Pin Recipe

Learn how to cook thin pork chops as an easy recipe for busy weeknights. With their fast cooking time and delicious flavor, thin-cut chops are a great addition to any meal rotation. In this recipe for bone-in pork chops, we will show you how to cook them to perfection, resulting in flavorful pork chops that are juicy and tender. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, you can have juicy pork chops on the dinner table in no time.

Thin pork chop recipes are a fast way to create an effortless meal that is ready in under 30 minutes with minimal ingredients. It is also budget-friendly to check all the boxes!

The pork is seasoned with a homemade spice blend and then seared on each side to create a crispy crust with a juicy and tender center. Easily slice into these tender pork chops to enjoy with any desired side (suggestions provided below).

We know you’ll quickly be impressed with the easiness of this dish and might also like to try our No Peek Beef Tips, Creamy Pasta Recipe With Ground Beef, and Gluten Free Fried Chicken.

thin pork chops, olive oil and spices on counter

Table of Contents

Ingredients

1.5 pounds thin pork chops ✅
1 teaspoon onion powder ✅
1 teaspoon garlic powder ✅
1 teaspoon chili powder ✅
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil

Gluten-Free Guide: If you’re new to eating gluten-free we understand it’s overwhelming trying to figure out which foods may contain gluten and which ones don’t. All of our gluten-free recipes marked with this symbol ✅ represent foods that need to be checked for gluten.

How To Make

Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. Place onto a parchment-lined baking tray.

To prepare the seasoning for the thin cut pork chops, start by combining the following ingredients in a small bowl: 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of Kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper.

Different ways of seasoning include simply using seasoned salt, brushing the chops with dijon mustard or honey mustard, a premade spice rub, or a mixture of brown sugar and soy sauce.

Once the seasoning mixture is ready, coat the pork chops. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the thin pork chops on it. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture onto both sides of the pork chops, using clean hands to rub it in and ensure an even distribution of flavors. Allow the seasoned pork chops to rest for 15 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse into the meat.

Now, let’s move on to cooking. Heat a large skillet or cast-iron skillet on the stove top over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned pork chops in the hot pan. Give the chops a quick sear for 1-2 minutes on the first side, then flip them over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. It’s crucial not to overcook the thin pork chops, as they cook quickly. Keep a close eye on them to maintain their tenderness and juiciness or you’ll end up with dry pork chops. Use an instant-read thermometer to check their doneness. The internal temperature of the pork chops needs to hit 145°F. Remember that the temperature will continue to rise a little after being removed from the heat.

Set the golden brown chops aside on a clean plate covered with aluminum foil for a couple minutes before serving.

top down shot of five seared pork chops in skillet

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Thin-cut pork chops may be labeled “minute pork chops” at the grocery store.
Season with Pulled Pork Rub or your favorite seasoning blend.
Buy thin chops or use a meat mallet to pound into thin pork slices.
Marinate overnight or for at least 8 hours to further tenderize and elevate the flavor.
Select pork with marbling for a juicer option.
Serve as is, drizzled with a pan sauce or fresh lemon juice.
Cut cooked pork into bite-sized pieces and serve alongside a dipping sauce for younger kids.

top down view of two pork chops and green beans on plate

Can I use other types of pork chops?

Yes, you can certainly use other types of pork chops for the recipe. If you’re unable to find thin pork chops, boneless pork chops, or pork cutlets, you have several alternatives. Pork tenderloin can be a great substitute, though you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly since it’s typically thicker. If you prefer thicker chops, you can purchase those and adjust the cooking time accordingly as well.

Here are some general guidelines on adjusting the cooking time based on thickness of the chops:

Boneless Chops: For 1-inch thick chops, cook for 6-8 minutes per side over medium-high heat on the stovetop or grill. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
Pork Tenderloin: Pork loin is typically thicker than chops, so it requires a longer cooking time. A whole pork tenderloin might take around 20-25 minutes in a preheated oven at 425°F until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Slicing it into smaller pieces or medallions will reduce the cooking time.
Thick Chops: Thick pork chops, such as those that are 1.5 to 2 inches thick, will take longer to cook. Cook them for 8-10 minutes per side over medium heat on the stovetop or grill, until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
Pork Cutlets: Pork cutlets are generally thin and cook quickly, similar to thin pork chops. They take around 3-4 minutes per side over medium-high heat on the stovetop or grill.

Always remember to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature of pork should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption, followed by a 3-minute rest period before serving. Cooking times can vary, so it’s best to use a thermometer to ensure your pork is cooked to perfection.

What to serve with pork chops

Here are some delicious side dish ideas to compliment your moist pork chops: Instant Pot Green Beans, Air Fryer Sweet Potato Chips, or even our Low Sodium Mac and Cheese. For a more hearty option, try our Gluten-Free Cheesy Potatoes. If you’re looking for a salad try our Brussels Sprout Apple Salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to season pork chops?

With your favorite seasoning blend! Ours is the combo of onion powder, garlic powder, chili, salt and pepper. However, this can easily be swapped with your preference. Fennel, paprika, cajun, and coriander are additional spices that pair well with pork.

How to cook thin pork chops without drying them out?

The best way to cook thin pork chops is quickly in a preheated skillet. To prevent overcooking resulting in tough pork chops, only cook on each side for 1-2 minutes then remove from the heat and let the pork rest before slicing.

Why are my pork chops tough?

Pan-seared pork chops should not be tough if cooked as written and a meat thermometer is used to check the internal temperature does not exceed 145° F.

How long to cook thin pork chops in oven?

To cook thin pork chops in the oven, preheat it to 375°F (190°C), season the chops, with a cook time of about 15-20 minutes, depending on their thickness. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption, and let the chops rest for a few minutes before serving to keep them moist and flavorful.

How long to cook thin pork chops in air fryer?

To cook thin pork chops in an air fryer, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Season the chops and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 8-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The exact time may vary based on the thickness of the pork chops and the specific air fryer model. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption, and let the chops rest for a few minutes before serving for best results.

two pork chops on plate with green beans

Kids In The Kitchen

Cooking tips and suggestions for kids making this recipe.

Make a double or triple batch of the seasoning blend and store the extra in a mason jar or container to use for your next pork chop recipe.
The pork chops should sizzle when placed in the hot oil. If not, let the oil continue to heat for another 1-2 minutes.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temp has reached 145° F after cooking for 1-2 minutes on each side. This will prevent overcooking.
Let the pork chops rest for 3-5 minutes after cooked. This will keep the pork juicy and tender.

Storing and Reheating Instructions

In the fridge: Store in a covered airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
In the freezer: Store in a covered airtight container or Ziploc bag for up to 3 months.
The best way to reheat pork chops to keep them moist and tender is to bake at 350° F in a covered dish for 7-10 minutes or until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth to the dish when reheating. If you don’t have a baking dish with a lid, tin foil can be used.

Easy Pork Recipes

CKC Features both Gluten-Free Guidance and Kids Cooking Instructions: If you’re new to eating gluten-free we understand it’s overwhelming trying to figure out which foods may contain gluten and which ones don’t. All of our gluten-free recipes marked with this symbol ✅ represent foods that need to be checked for gluten or cross-contamination.

The ⭐️ symbol in the recipe below denotes the steps in which kid cooks may need a helper (depending on age). If there is no ⭐️ symbol, that step (or recipe) doesn’t require a helper.

Rate Recipe Add to Recipe Box