Easy Taco Pork Chops Recipe
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If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful, easy dinner idea that’s quick to prepare and guaranteed to please the whole family, look no further than these easy taco pork chops. With just a few ingredients and a delicious Tex-Mex twist, this recipe transforms everyday pork chops into a bold and satisfying meal.
Why Choose Taco Pork Chops?
We love pork chops and they are so versatile. Taco pork chops combine the classic comfort of a meaty main dish with the exciting flavors of taco night. It’s a great way to change up your usual pork chop routine without needing a lot of extra ingredients.
The familiar taste of taco seasoning gives the dish a punch of flavor, while the pork stays tender and juicy. This meal is kid-friendly, easy to customize, and can be served in so many fun ways, from traditional sides to tacos or rice bowls.
Taco Pork Chops Recipe
Taco Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops about 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning store-bought or homemade
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese optional
- Chopped cilantro, sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado optional
Instructions
- Begin by patting your pork chops dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a nice sear.
- In a small bowl, mix together the taco seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly on both sides of the pork chops. Let them sit for about 10 minutes while you prepare your pan.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until a golden crust forms. Lower the heat, cover, and cook for another 5 to 6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Once done, remove the pork chops from heat, squeeze lime juice over top, and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep the juices inside the meat for maximum tenderness.
Nutrition
If you want to bake them, start by preheating your oven to 375°F if you plan to bake your pork chops. Place the seasoned pork chops in a greased baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and squeeze fresh lime juice over the top. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pork is fully cooked. For added flavor, sprinkle cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking and let it melt.
If grilling, heat your grill to medium-high and cook the pork chops for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, until they reach the proper internal temperature. Once done, remove the pork chops from heat and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep the juices inside the meat for maximum tenderness.
Homemade Taco Seasoning Option
If you don’t have a packet of taco seasoning on hand, you can quickly make your own. I love to make up batches of this and have it on hand for everything. This taco seasoning blend works great and lets you control the spice level.
Pork Chop Ideas
For more pork chop recipes, check these out:
Serving Suggestions
There are so many fun ways to serve these taco pork chops. For a traditional plate, pair them with Spanish rice and black beans, and top with a dollop of sour cream and chopped cilantro. You can also serve them over a salad with shredded lettuce, corn, avocado, and ranch or chipotle sauce for a taco-inspired bowl.
Make It a One-Pan Meal
To save time and dishes, you can bake the pork chops on a sheet pan with veggies. Just add sliced bell peppers, onions, and zucchini around the pork before baking. Drizzle with olive oil and a sprinkle of taco seasoning. Roast everything together, and dinner’s ready in about 30 minutes.
If you’re meal prepping, this recipe stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze cooked pork chops and reheat them for a quick meal later. Simply wrap individually in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
Tips for Success
Don’t overcook your pork chops. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temp is 145°F, then remove from heat and let them rest. This helps keep the meat juicy and prevents dryness.
If your pork chops are very thick, consider pounding them slightly to even out the thickness for more consistent cooking. Thinner chops will cook faster and can dry out more easily, so watch your time closely.
To boost flavor even more, consider marinating the pork in lime juice, olive oil, and taco seasoning for an hour or two before cooking. This step is optional but adds extra depth and tenderness.
Want to make it cheesy? Add shredded Monterey Jack or queso fresco on top of the pork chops before serving. Garnish with green onions, cilantro, or even pickled jalapeños for an extra kick.
