These Taco Seasoned Pork Chops are a fun twist on a classic! With a zesty taco seasoning, they bring a burst of flavor to your dinner table. They’re juicy, tender, and super easy to make.
I love serving them with warm tortillas and fresh toppings like avocado and salsa. Get ready for a lovely taco night without the hassle of making traditional tacos! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are preferred for their juicy flavor, but you can use boneless if that’s what you have. Thinner chops may cook faster, so keep an eye on the cooking time!
Chili Powder: This is the star seasoning! If you’re not a fan, you can use taco seasoning mix instead or try a blend of paprika and cayenne for a different flavor.
Cayenne Pepper: This adds heat but is optional. If you don’t have it or prefer milder flavors, feel free to skip or substitute with a pinch of black pepper.
Olive Oil: You can use any cooking oil here, such as vegetable or canola oil. I personally enjoy the flavor of avocado oil as a substitute!
How Do You Get the Perfect Crust on Your Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops until they have a nice crust involves a few key steps. First, ensure your skillet is hot enough – this helps create that awesome sear. Here’s how to nail it:
- Pat your pork chops dry. Moisture can prevent getting that crisp crust.
- Apply the seasoning evenly, ensuring it sticks well to the surface.
- Cook in hot oil. Wait for the oil to shimmer before adding the chops.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; this helps the chops cook evenly.
- Let them rest after cooking. This keeps them juicy inside!
Following these steps will ensure you end up with deliciously crusted pork chops every time!
How to Make Taco Seasoned Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
Time Needed:
You will need about 10 minutes to prepare and season your pork chops and approximately 10-12 minutes to cook them. In total, expect to spend around 20-25 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Taco Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix everything together well until you have a uniform seasoning blend. This mixture will pack a flavor punch!
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better. Now, rub the taco seasoning mix evenly on both sides of each pork chop. Make sure they are well coated to maximize the flavor!
3. Heat the Skillet:
Put a large skillet on the stove and add the olive oil. Heat it over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering and hot. This step is crucial for getting a nice crust on your pork chops.
4. Cook the Pork Chops:
Carefully add the seasoned pork chops to the hot skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown crust and an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you have a meat thermometer, this is a great tool to use!
5. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a plate. Let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chops nice and juicy!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves over the top for a pop of color and flavor. These savory taco seasoned pork chops pair perfectly with warm tortillas, avocado, salsa, or any of your favorite Mexican sides.
Enjoy your deliciously seasoned pork chops! They are sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for a cook time of about 3-4 minutes per side, checking for the same internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No worries! You can use a pre-packaged taco seasoning instead of individual spices. Just follow the packet instructions for seasoning amounts based on your number of pork chops!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’re looking for more heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix or add some diced jalapeños to the skillet while cooking. Another option is to serve the pork chops with a spicy salsa!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pork chops on the stove or microwave, ensuring they don’t dry out. You can add a splash of water or broth while reheating to keep them moist.
