Skillet Chili-dusted Pork Chops

Skillet Chili-dusted Pork Chops Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 14 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Skillet Chili-dusted Pork Chops are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. The combination of spices used in this recipe gives the pork chops a delicious kick of heat and flavor that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

History

This recipe draws inspiration from traditional chili seasoning blends, which typically include a mix of spices such as cayenne pepper, paprika, cumin, and chili powder. By dusting pork chops with this flavorful seasoning mix, you can create a unique and delicious dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

4 boneless center cut pork chops (thick cut)
2 tbsp vegetable oil

Seasoning mix

1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tbsp paprika
0.5 tsp ground cumin
0.25 tsp white pepper
0.25 tsp black pepper
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp whole thyme leaves (dry)
0.5 tsp chili powder

How to prepare

Combine the ingredients for the seasoning mix and mix well.
Dust both sides of the pork chops with the seasoning mix and set aside.
Heat a large cast iron pan over medium heat and add the vegetable oil.
Once the pan is hot, add the pork chops.
Cook the pork chops for 10 to 14 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Note: Chili-dusted pork chops are also delicious when grilled.

Variations

For a smokier flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika to the seasoning mix.
Substitute pork chops with chicken breasts or thighs for a different twist on this recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to evenly coat both sides of the pork chops with the seasoning mix for maximum flavor.

- Cooking the pork chops in a cast iron skillet will help to create a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

- If you prefer a milder spice level, you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and chili powder in the seasoning mix.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Skillet Chili-dusted Pork Chops with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Searing the pork chops in a hot skillet will help to lock in the juices and create a flavorful crust on the outside.

- Make sure not to overcook the pork chops to ensure they stay tender and juicy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have all the spices listed in the seasoning mix, you can use a pre-made chili seasoning blend as a substitute.

- Olive oil or canola oil can be used in place of vegetable oil for cooking the pork chops.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the seasoning mix in advance and store it in an airtight container until ready to use. This will save you time when you're ready to cook the pork chops.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Skillet Chili-dusted Pork Chops with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Skillet Chili-dusted Pork Chops with a glass of red wine or a cold beer to complement the spicy flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork chops in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Skillet Chili-dusted Pork Chops contains approximately 280 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Skillet Chili-dusted Pork Chops contains approximately 2 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Skillet Chili-dusted Pork Chops contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Skillet Chili-dusted Pork Chops contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Skillet Chili-dusted Pork Chops are a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

Skillet Chili-dusted Pork Chops are a high-protein, low-carb dish that is rich in essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Skillet Chili-dusted Pork Chops are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner. With a blend of spices that pack a punch, these pork chops are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Skillet Chili-dusted Pork Chops. It was a warm summer evening, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret at her cozy little farmhouse. Margaret was known for her delectable home-cooked meals, and that evening was no exception.

As we sat at her kitchen table sipping tea and catching up, Margaret mentioned that she had a new recipe she wanted to try out. She had come across it in an old cookbook she had found at a flea market. The recipe was for Skillet Chili-dusted Pork Chops, and it sounded absolutely delicious.

Margaret had everything we needed to make the dish, so we got to work right away. We started by seasoning the pork chops with a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt. The aroma of the spices filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Next, we heated a skillet on the stove and seared the pork chops until they were golden brown on both sides. The sizzle of the meat in the hot pan was music to my ears, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

Once the pork chops were cooked through, we set them aside to rest while we prepared the sauce. We deglazed the skillet with some chicken broth, scraping up all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom. Then we added in diced tomatoes, chopped green chilies, and a touch of honey for sweetness.

As the sauce simmered and thickened, the kitchen filled with the mouthwatering scent of tomatoes and chilies mingling together. I knew this dish was going to be something special.

Finally, we plated the pork chops and spooned the sauce over the top. The vibrant colors of the red sauce against the golden brown pork chops were a sight to behold. I took my first bite and was immediately transported to flavor heaven.

The pork chops were tender and juicy, with a subtle heat from the chili powder and green chilies. The sauce was rich and savory, with just a hint of sweetness from the honey. It was a perfect balance of flavors that left me craving more.

Margaret and I savored every bite of our meal, enjoying each other's company and the delicious food we had created together. We laughed and talked late into the night, savoring the moment and the memories we were making.

After that evening, Skillet Chili-dusted Pork Chops became a staple in my own kitchen. I made the dish for my family and friends, sharing the recipe with anyone who would listen. It became a favorite among all who tried it, and I knew that I had Margaret to thank for introducing me to such a wonderful recipe.

To this day, whenever I make Skillet Chili-dusted Pork Chops, I think of that warm summer evening at Margaret's farmhouse. The laughter, the friendship, and the delicious food we shared will always hold a special place in my heart. And I am grateful for the memories and the recipe that I will cherish for years to come.