Tomato Herb Pork Chops

Introduction

Tomato Herb Pork Chops are a flavorful and juicy twist on the classic pork chop dinner. The pork chops are seared to perfection and then simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic herbs like thyme, rosemary, and basil. This dish is a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and herbaceous flavors that makes it a comforting yet elegant meal.

Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, these pork chops pair beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato herb sauce.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple yet bursting with flavor. The combination of herbs and tomatoes elevates ordinary pork chops into a restaurant-quality dish. The sauce keeps the meat tender and juicy while adding a rich, savory depth that makes every bite irresistible. It’s a dish that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Juicy, tender pork chops with robust herb and tomato flavor.
• Simple ingredients yet gourmet taste.
• Versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides.
• A perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent and comforting.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: 45–50 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
• Cuisine: American / European-inspired
• Course: Main Course

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)

For the Tomato Herb Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ½ cup chicken broth or water

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear pork chops 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
4. Add diced tomatoes, herbs, sugar, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.
5. Return pork chops to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 10–15 minutes until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, spooning tomato herb sauce over the pork chops.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Season the Pork Chops

• Pat the pork chops dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear pork chops 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chops and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Herb Sauce

• In the same skillet, add olive oil if needed.
• Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
• Stir in diced tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper.
• Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine.

Step 4: Simmer Pork Chops in Sauce

• Return pork chops to the skillet, cover, and reduce heat to low.
• Simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 5: Serve

• Plate the pork chops and spoon the tomato herb sauce over the top. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

How to Serve

• Serve over creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.
• Pair with roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, or a fresh salad.
• Add crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook pork chops to keep them tender and juicy.
• Adjust herbs to taste—fresh herbs can be used for a more vibrant flavor.
• For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter or cream at the end of the sauce.
• Use bone-in pork chops for extra flavor.

Variations

• Italian Style: Add a splash of red wine and Italian seasoning to the sauce.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
• Vegetable Boost: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms in the sauce.
• Cheesy Version: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella over the pork chops before serving.

Freezing and Storage Time

• Storage: Store cooked pork chops with sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze pork chops and sauce separately for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet with lid
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Tongs or spatula

FAQ

Q1: Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, boneless chops work perfectly; cooking time may be slightly shorter.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce in advance and reheat with seared pork chops before serving.

Q3: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, about 3–4 medium fresh tomatoes, diced, can be used. Simmer a bit longer to thicken.

Q4: How do I prevent the pork chops from drying out?
Sear over medium-high heat to lock in juices, then simmer gently in sauce and avoid overcooking.

Q5: Can I add wine to the sauce?
Yes, ¼ cup dry white or red wine adds extra depth. Add it after sautéing onions and garlic, and reduce slightly before adding tomatoes.

Conclusion

Tomato Herb Pork Chops are a simple yet elegant dish that combines juicy pork chops with a flavorful tomato herb sauce. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or a special meal, offering comfort, freshness, and gourmet flavor all in one skillet. Its versatility and rich taste make it a must-try for any home cook looking to elevate classic pork chops.