15+ Thin Pork Chops Recipes: Easy & Flavorful

Elevate your Cooking Skills with these Delectable Thin Pork Chop Dishes, from Savory Marinades to Pan-Fried Recipes that will Impress you.

How Thick Should Thin Pork Chops Be?

🥩 Thin pork chops are generally sliced to a thickness of about ¼ to ½ inch (0.6 to 1.3 cm). This thickness allows for faster and more even cooking.

Pork chops have gained immense popularity in the culinary world due to their versatility and delicious taste. These thinly sliced cuts of pork offer a quick and convenient way to create flavorful and satisfying meals. Whether you prefer grilling, baking, or stir-frying, pan-fried pork chops can be easily incorporated into various dishes, making them a go-to option for busy individuals and culinary enthusiasts.

This blog aims to provide readers with a curated collection of 15+ easy and flavorful thin pork chop recipes. We understand the importance of diverse recipes, especially regarding staple ingredients like thin pork chops. From classic preparations to innovative twists, we have gathered recipes catering to different tastes and dietary preferences.

Whether you are a seasoned cook looking for new ideas or a beginner eager to explore the world of cooking, this blog will provide a comprehensive guide to cooking pork chops in many ways. Our recipes will showcase the flexibility of this ingredient, highlighting its ability to absorb flavors, retain tenderness, and offer a delightful eating experience.

Raw, fresh, and thinly cut pork chops.
Raw, fresh, and thinly cut pork chops.

By presenting you with these 15+ recipes, we aim to inspire creativity in your kitchen and make your cooking journey enjoyable and delicious. Our collection has got you covered whether you are in the mood for a quick weekday meal, a delightful weekend feast, or a dish to impress your guests.

So, prepare to embark on a flavorful adventure as we dive into the realm of pork chops and discover new and exciting ways to elevate your culinary skills. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these mouthwatering recipes that showcase the fantastic potential of pork chops. Let’s dive in and explore the world of easy and flavorful thin pork chop recipes together!

Table of Contents

Why Choose Thin Pork Chops?

A close-up view of thin pork chops placed on a clean cutting board.
A close-up view of thin pork chops placed on a clean cutting board.

When it comes to cooking with pork, thin-cut pork chops offer a range of advantages that make them an excellent choice for your recipes. Here are a few reasons why you should consider cooking pork chops:

Quick Cooking Time

Thin pork chops cook faster than thicker cuts, so you can quickly have a delicious meal on the table. Whether you’re pressed for time during a busy weeknight or craving a satisfying meal without the long cooking process, pork chops are the perfect solution.

Tender and Juicy Texture

Thin pork chops are known for their tenderness and juicy texture. The thin cut allows for quicker cooking, producing tender and moist meat. With proper cooking techniques, you can achieve a succulent and flavorful pork chop every time.

Versatility in Various Dishes

Thin pork chops are incredibly versatile and can be used in various dishes. From classic breaded pork chops to stir-fries, grilling, baking, or even using them in sandwiches and salads, these cuts of pork adapt well to different cooking methods and flavors. Their versatility allows you to experiment with various cuisines and flavors, making them a staple ingredient in your culinary repertoire.

Flavor Absorption

Thin pork chops readily absorb flavors from marinades, seasonings, and sauces, making them ideal for creating dishes bursting with taste. Whether you prefer tangy flavors or rich and savory profiles, chops are a blank canvas for incorporating your desired flavors. Their ability to absorb marinades and spices ensures that each bite is delicious.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Thin Pork Chops

Proper preparation and seasoning are essential to ensure your pork chops are tender, juicy, and flavorful. Here are some valuable tips to help you achieve the perfect chops:

Tips for Tenderizing Thin Pork Chops

  • Use a meat mallet: Pork chops can benefit from tenderizing to break down the muscle fibers and improve their tenderness. Place the chops between plastic wrap or in a resealable plastic bag and gently pound them with a meat mallet until they reach an even thickness. Be careful not to overdo it, as thin chops can become too thin and prone to overcooking.
  • Marinating the chops: Letting pork chops rest before cooking can help tenderize them and infuse them with additional flavor. Consider using marinades with ingredients like citrus juice, vinegar, yogurt, or buttermilk, as their acidity helps to break down the meat fibers and enhance tenderness. Allow the chops to marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Seasoning Recommendations to Enhance Flavor

  • Salt and pepper: Seasoning with salt and pepper is fundamental in bringing out the natural flavors of pork chops. Sprinkle both sides of the chops generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper before cooking.
  • Dry rubs and spice blends: Experiment with dry rubs and spice blends to add depth and complexity to your thin boneless pork chops. Consider mixtures with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, or herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano. Apply the rub or spice blend evenly to both sides of the chops, gently pressing it into the meat.
  • Fresh herbs and aromatics: Add freshness and aroma to your pork chops by incorporating fresh herbs and aromatics. Finely chop herbs such as parsley, basil, cilantro, or mint and sprinkle them over the cooked chops for a vibrant finish. Alternatively, infuse the chops with the flavors of minced garlic, grated ginger, or sliced shallots during the cooking process.

15+ Flavorful Thin Pork Chops Recipe

Grilled Thin Pork Chops

Grilled thin pork chops sizzling on a hot grill with prominent grill marks.
Grilled thin pork chops sizzling on a hot grill with prominent grill marks.

Grilled Herb-Marinated Pork Chops

  • Ingredients: pork chops, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
  • Cooking Instructions:
    • Combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
    • Marinate pork chops and let them for at least 30 minutes—Grill over medium-high heat until cooked.
    • Use a meat thermometer to check and serve.

Grilled Lemon Pepper Thin Pork Chops

  • Ingredients: pork chops, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, olive oil.
  • Cooking Instructions: In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, and olive oil. Coat the pork chops with the mixture and let them marinate for about 20 minutes. Grill over medium heat until nicely charred and cooked through, and serve.

Grilled Teriyaki Pineapple Thin Pork Chops

  • Ingredients: pork chops, teriyaki sauce, pineapple slices, salt, and black pepper.
  • Cooking Instructions: Season the pork chops with salt and black pepper. Grill the pork chops over medium-high heat, brushing them with teriyaki sauce on both sides. Grill pineapple slices until they have excellent grill marks. Serve the grilled pork chops topped with grilled pineapple slices.

Grilled Balsamic Glazed Thin Pork Chops

  • Ingredients: pork chops, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
  • Cooking Instructions:
    • Combine all ingredients in a small pan.
    • Cook over low heat until the mixture thickens into a glaze.
    • Grill the pork chops over medium heat, brushing them with the glaze on both sides.
    • Serve with extra glaze drizzled over the top.

Grilled Cajun Spiced Thin Pork Chops

  • Ingredients: Thin pork chops, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  • Cooking Instructions:
    • Mix all dry ingredients in a small bowl.
    • Season the thin pork chops with the prepared mixture.
    • Grill over medium-high heat until cooked through and slightly charred, and serve.

Baked Thin Pork Chops

Baked pork chops seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices.
Baked pork chops seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices.

Baked Parmesan Crusted Thin Pork Chops

  • Ingredients: Thin pork chop, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried herbs (such as oregano or thyme), salt, black pepper, and egg.
  • Cooking Instructions:
    • Combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish.
    • Coat the thin pork chops with egg and breadcrumbs.
    • Bake the thin pork chops for about 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Baked Honey Mustard Pork Chops

  • Ingredients: Thin pork chop, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  • Cooking Instructions:
    • Whisk all ingredients together until it forms like a sauce.
    • Prepare the pork chops in a baking dish, and apply the glaze with a brush.
    • Bake for about 20-25 minutes until the pork chops are cooked, and the glaze is caramelized.

Baked Apple Cinnamon Pork Chops

  • Ingredients: Thin pork chop, apples (thinly sliced), brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.
  • Cooking Instructions:
    • Season the pork chops with salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
    • Prepare, place the pork chops in a baking dish, and add a layer of thinly sliced apples on top.
    • Sprinkle brown sugar and additional cinnamon over the apples.
    • Bake for 25-30 minutes until the pork chops are cooked and the apples tender.

Baked Lemon Herb Pork Chops

  • Ingredients: Thin pork chop, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano), salt, black pepper, and olive oil.
  • Cooking Instructions:
    • Combine lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried herbs, salt, black pepper, and olive oil in a small bowl.
    • To prepare, put the pork chops in a baking dish and then pour the marinade.
    • Bake for about 20-25 minutes until the pork chops are cooked and golden.

Baked BBQ Thin Pork Chops

  • Ingredients: pork chops, sweet or keto barbecue sauce (depends on your diet), brown sugar (optional), garlic powder or minced, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  • Cooking Instructions:
    • Mix all ingredients in a small bowl.
    • Place the pork chops in a baking dish and brush them with the barbecue sauce mixture.
    • Bake for 25-30 minutes until the pork chops are cooked, and the sauce is caramelized.

Baked Mediterranean Thin Pork Chops

  • Ingredients: Pork chops, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
  • Cooking Instructions:
    • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Whisk all dry and wet ingredients.
    • Bake for about 20-25 minutes until the pork chops are cooked and nicely browned.

Asian-Inspired Thin Pork Chops

Asian-inspired pork chops fried with egg, veggies,  and other Asian spices.
Asian-inspired pork chops fried with egg, veggies, and other Asian spices.

Asian Soy Ginger Thin Pork Chops

  • Ingredients: Pork chops, or you can use leftover pork chops, soy sauce, ginger (grated), garlic (minced), honey, sesame oil, green onions (chopped), salt, and black pepper.
  • Cooking Instructions:
    • In a bowl, mix all ingredients except the meat.
    • Pour the marinade into the meat.
    • Let them marinate for at least 1 hour.
    • Grill or pan-fry the pork chops until cooked through, and serve.

Thai Red Curry Thin Pork Chops

  • Ingredients: Pork chops, Thai red curry paste, coconut milk, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, vegetable oil, cilantro (chopped), salt, and black pepper.
  • Cooking Instructions:
    • Mix Thai red curry paste, coconut milk, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, vegetable oil, chopped cilantro, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
    • Marinate the meat for 1-2 hours.
    • Grill or pan-fry the pork chops until cooked through, and serve.

Japanese Teriyaki Thin Pork Chops

  • Ingredients: Pork chops, soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, ginger (grated), garlic (minced), cornstarch, water, green onions (chopped), sesame seeds (for garnish), salt, black pepper.
  • Cooking Instructions:
    • Combine soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, cornstarch, and water in a saucepan.
    • Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens.
    • Season the pork chops with salt and black pepper.
    • Grill or pan-fry the pork chops, brushing them with the teriyaki sauce.
    • Serve the pork chops sprinkled with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Korean Thin Pork Chops (Dwaejigogi)

  • Ingredients: Pork chops, gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, honey, garlic (minced), sesame oil, sesame seeds (for garnish), green onions (chopped), salt, black pepper.
  • Cooking Instructions:
    • Whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, sesame oil, chopped green onions, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
    • Marinade overnight.
    • Grill or pan-fry the pork chops until cooked through, and serve sprinkled with sesame seeds.

Chinese Five-Spice Thin Pork Chops

  • Ingredients: Pork chops, Chinese five-spice powder, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, garlic (minced), vegetable oil, green onions (chopped), salt, and black pepper.
  • Cooking Instructions:
    • Mix Chinese five-spice powder, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, minced garlic, chopped green onions, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
    • Pour the mixture on the meat and leave it for at least 1 hour.
    • Grill or pan-fry the pork chops until cooked through, and serve.

Final Thoughts

Pork chops are a versatile and delicious ingredient that can easily elevate your meals. Whether you grill, bake, or explore Asian-inspired flavors, thin pork chops offer endless possibilities for creating flavorful and satisfying dishes.

Throughout this blog, we’ve provided various recipes showcasing the diverse ways thin pork chops can be prepared. Each recipe brings a unique blend of flavors and textures, from grilled teriyaki to baked Parmesan-crusted options.

A delicious plate of cooked pork chops accompanied by fresh apple slices and a garnish of herbs.
A delicious plate of cooked pork chops accompanied by fresh apple slices and a garnish of herbs.

Proper preparation and seasoning are vital in ensuring tender and tasty thin pork chops. Take advantage of tips like tenderizing the meat, marinating for added flavor, and seasoning with your preferred herbs and spices. You can achieve fantastic results every time with creativity and attention to detail.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, these recipes offer various options for various tastes and occasions. Feel free to customize and experiment with ingredients and techniques to make each dish your own, or watch our videos on youtube for more recipes.