Learn exactly how to cook a thick-cut pork chop so it is perfectly tender and juicy! This method ensures the pork is cooked with a flavorful, seared crust on the outside while ensuring the inside is never dry!

Learn exactly how to cook a two inch pork chop so it is perfectly tender and juicy!

When you get pork chops, what type do you usually buy? I used to buy packs of the fairly thin, bone-in pork chops like I used in this Pork Chops with Mushroom Cream Sauce recipe. They cook quickly (sometimes maybe a little too quickly), and leftovers make great sandwiches.

When I started ordering my meat from ButcherBox, I was in for a surprise! When I got my first pack of chops, they were huge, boneless, 2-inch thick, 8 oz. chops! I had never cooked 2-inch-thick pork chops before, so I had to experiment a bit to make sure the center was cooked through without burning or drying out the edges. I’m excited to share my method so you don’t waste a single bite of these big, juicy, delicious pork chops!

Ingredients Needed for the Perfect Pork Chops

As always, you will find the complete recipe below, just keep scrolling. This is quick overview of the ingredients you will need to make the best thick cut pork chops:

Thick cut pork chops: this recipe includes cooking time specifically for a 2 inch pork chop.
Steak marinade: I use Allegro, but you can use your favorite brand.
Olive Oil, Salt and Pepper: You can use any neutral oil such as coconut or avocado if you prefer.

Learn exactly how to cook a thick cut pork chop so it is perfectly tender and juicy!

How do you cook tender pork chops?

If you’ve ever tried cooking thick pork chops and were disappointed with dry, flavorless chops, this post is for you! You need to follow these simple steps for the BEST thick cut pork chops!

Marinade the pork chops in 1/3 cup steak marinade and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Allow the chops to marinade at least one hour, up to 24 hours.
When ready to cook preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Remove the chops from the marinade and season well with salt and pepper on each side. Be liberal with the salt and pepper. I find pork always needs a bit more than you expect, and this also ensures you will get that amazing savory crust on the outside.
Heat an oven-safe skillet over high heat and add one tablespoon of olive oil. When the skillet and oil are piping hot, add the pork chop and sear for 2 minutes on each side. After searing, place the entire skillet with the chops in the oven and bake for 10 minutes. Flip and bake another 5-10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F.

Tips for the Best Pork Chops

Do not skip the marinade. This gives the chops an amazing flavor and helps to tenderize the meat.
Use an oven-safe skillet such as a good, heavy bottom cast iron skillet.
Do not sear longer than 2 minutes.
Use a meat thermometer, remove the chops from the oven as soon as they reach 145 degrees F. This is crucial! Cooking to a higher internal temperature will make the pork chops dry and tough.
Allow the meat to rest 5 minutes before cutting into it, this helps to prevent all the juices from escaping if you cut into it too quickly.

What should I serve with Pork Chops?

These pork chops pair perfectly with just about any side dish! I served my pork chops with roasted asparagus and Parmesan. Some other ideas include Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower and this Smashed Broccoli. If you prefer a salad this salad is amazing and stores well, as does this one.

Other Pork Recipes