Spice Crusted Center Cut Pork Chops

When you find a dish that's quick, healthy, and delicious, you know you’ve got a winner. That’s what these Spice Crusted Pork Chops are. Not only are they lean and beyond flavorful, but they come together from start to finish in under 15 minutes.

All you need to make these crave-worthy pork chops is a simple combination of spices that you probably already have on hand. Well, that and some lean center-cut pork chops, of course. I like to use boneless pork chops because they tend to be leaner. However, some people find the bone-in chops to be juicier, so it’s totally up to you.

These healthy pork chops are a delicious dinner entrée that are guaranteed to impress your family and friends. I love serving them alongside a bowl of rice and roasted vegetables — something like these Sheet Pan Pesto Chickpeas and Vegetables — or with a side salad for a low-carb meal.

Key Ingredients

To make these spicy pork chops, you will need just a few key ingredients:

• Lean center-cut pork chops: I like using boneless pork chops because they have fewer calories and fat, however, bone-in chops will work as well! Bone-in chops actually have a bit more flavor and moisture. Just adjust the cooking time for bone-in chops since they take longer. This also works with chicken, fish, and steak. 
• Spices: I like to use a combination of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard, chili powder, salt, and pepper. These spices create a rich, savory, and a slightly smoky crust that tastes amazing with the pork chops.

Pork Chop Cooking Tips

Here are my top tips and tricks to help you cook mouth-watering pork chops every time:

• Cook the pork chops from room temperature. For the tastiest results, take your pork chops out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking. When pork chops are heated to room temperature, they are more likely to cook evenly.
• Season the chops with salt. About 30 minutes before cooking — as you’re taking your pork chops out of the fridge — season them with a bit of salt! This will amp up the flavor and texture of the meat.
• Coat the chops. For an extra crunchy crust, lightly coat your pork chops in flour or cornstarch after seasoning them.
• Let your cooked pork chops rest. As soon as your pork chops are done cooking, transfer them to a clean plate to rest. Cover the plate with aluminum foil and let them sit for around 5 minutes before cutting into them. This will allow the chops to get nice and juicy.

How to Serve Spice Crusted Pork Chops

This dish is incredibly versatile, so there are plenty of ways you can serve it. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with just about anything, but I totally understand if you need a little inspiration. Here are some of my favorite dishes to serve with pork chops:

• Potatoes. Potatoes and pork chops just go hand in hand. I recommend these Roasted Rosemary Baby Potatoes or you could try these Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes for a sweet option.
• Roasted veggies. For a wholesome and low-carb meal, pair these delicious spice pork chops with some roasted veggies of your choice. During the fall, I recommend these Honey Roasted Baby Carrots or this Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash.
• Grains. A hearty grain bowl is the perfect base for these delicious pork chops. Quinoa, brown rice, and lentils all make great choices. For a low-carb option, try pairing these chops with some cauliflower rice.
• Salad. Because these pork chops are so deliciously savory, I love balancing them out with a light and refreshing salad. For a healthy fall salad to pair with this dish, try this Wild Rice Salad with Acorn Squash or Easy Lentil Salad.

How to Store Cooked Pork Chops

Spice Crusted Pork Chops are super quick and easy to prepare, making them the perfect make-ahead protein for make-ahead meals. To store these spiced pork chops, allow them to cool before sealing them in an airtight storage container. Then, you can store them in one of two ways:

• In the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• In the freezer for up to 2-3 months however, the texture will change slightly. It is best to eat these fresh.

Use leftovers in everything from pork tacos to grain bowls and sandwiches.