18 Thick Juicy Center Cut Pork Chop Recipes: Steaks for Weight Loss

Pork chops have a special place in our hearts and on our dinner tables. They bring back memories of family dinners and cozy nights in. If you’ve been craving something hearty yet healthy, you’re in for a treat. This post features 18 thick, juicy center cut pork chop recipes that will satisfy your taste buds while helping you stay on track with your weight loss goals.

These recipes are perfect for anyone looking for delicious meals that don’t sacrifice flavor. If you’re someone who enjoys cooking or wants to impress your family with healthy options, this collection is tailored just for you. You’ll discover recipes packed with unique flavors and easy steps to make your cooking experience enjoyable.

Get ready to explore a range of mouthwatering ideas, from garlic herb grilled pork chops to sweet and spicy pork chops, all of which are designed to keep your meals exciting and nutritious. Whether you prefer grilled, baked, or slow-cooked pork, you’ll find something that fits your taste and lifestyle. Dive in and start your culinary adventure with these delightful center cut pork chop recipes!

Key Takeaways

– Discover 18 flavorful center cut pork chop recipes that are perfect for your weight loss journey while still satisfying your cravings.

– Explore marinades, seasonings, and cooking methods to enhance the taste of your pork chops, including grilling and baking techniques.

– Learn how to prepare quick and easy recipes that fit into your busy schedule without sacrificing quality or health.

– Enjoy a variety of cuisines with international flavors, such as Mediterranean, Thai, and Cajun, making your meals diverse and exciting.

– Find practical tips for cooking techniques like slow cooking and stuffing pork chops to elevate your dishes and keep meals interesting.

1. Garlic Herb Grilled Pork Chops

Ready to fire up the grill for a flavor-packed meal? These Garlic Herb Grilled Pork Chops are marinated in a fragrant mix of fresh garlic, rosemary, and thyme, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender. Perfect for a sunny afternoon barbecue, they bring a delightful taste to your table that everyone will love!

With a rich flavor profile and the goodness of herbs, these chops are not just tasty but also nutritious. Packed with protein and easy to prepare, they make a great centerpiece for gatherings or family dinners.

Ingredients:
– 4 center cut pork chops
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine garlic, rosemary, thyme, and olive oil.
2. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper, then add them to the marinade.
3. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for more flavor.
4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
5. Grill the chops for about 6 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
6. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use dried herbs instead? Yes, but use less as dried herbs are more concentrated.

2. Honey Mustard Baked Pork Chops

Looking for a sweet and savory delight? These Honey Mustard Baked Pork Chops are your answer! The glaze made from honey, mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar creates a sticky coating that caramelizes beautifully, giving you an irresistible dish.

Not only are these chops delicious, but they are also simple to prepare and packed with protein. Ideal for busy weeknights, they come together quickly and offer a satisfying meal for everyone.

Ingredients:
– 4 center cut pork chops
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Place pork chops in a baking dish and pour the honey mustard sauce over them.
4. Bake for 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
5. Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to caramelize the top.

FAQs:
– Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, cook on low for 6-8 hours.

3. Spicy Thai Pork Chops

Ready to spice things up? These Spicy Thai Pork Chops are marinated in a punchy blend of chili paste, garlic, and lime juice, delivering a burst of flavor that will transport your taste buds straight to Thailand. Each bite is perfectly balanced with heat and zest.

Not only are they full of flavor, but these chops are also quick to prepare, making them a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner that impresses.

Ingredients:
– 4 center cut pork chops
– 2 tbsp chili paste
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Juice of 2 limes
– 1 tsp fish sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. Combine chili paste, garlic, lime juice, fish sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the pork chops in this mixture for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Cook the pork chops for about 5 minutes on each side until cooked through.

FAQs:
– How can I reduce the heat? Use less chili paste or choose a milder variety.

4. Mediterranean Herb-Crusted Pork Chops

Craving a taste of the Mediterranean? These Herb-Crusted Pork Chops are coated in a delightful blend of herbs and spices, making them a healthy yet satisfying meal choice. Baked to perfection, they offer a crunchy exterior with juicy meat inside.

Not only are they delicious, but they’re also easy to prepare, making them a perfect option for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious dinner without hassle.

Ingredients:
– 4 center cut pork chops
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat each pork chop with the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes until golden and cooked through.

FAQs:
– Can I grill these instead? Yes, grill for about 6-7 minutes per side.

5. BBQ Slow Cooker Pork Chops

Let your slow cooker work its magic with these BBQ Slow Cooker Pork Chops! They become fall-off-the-bone tender while soaking up a smoky barbecue flavor that’s perfect for any busy weeknight. This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Not only are they full of flavor, but they also require minimal effort, allowing you to focus on other tasks while dinner cooks itself.

Ingredients:
– 4 center cut pork chops
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 onion, sliced
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. Season pork chops with salt and pepper and place in the slow cooker.
2. Add sliced onions, BBQ sauce, and chicken broth.
3. Cook on low for 6 hours or until tender.
4. Serve with your favorite sides like coleslaw or cornbread.

FAQs:
– Can I use boneless chops? Yes, just adjust the cooking time if needed.

6. Lemon Pepper Baked Pork Chops

Looking to refresh your dinner routine? These zesty Lemon Pepper Baked Pork Chops are just what you need! The bright flavors of lemon and pepper create a refreshing taste that pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

They are not only quick to make but also bring a nutritious punch, making them a fabulous option for any meal.

Ingredients:
– 4 center cut pork chops
– 2 lemons (juice and zest)
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. In a bowl, mix lemon juice, lemon zest, pepper, and olive oil.
3. Coat pork chops with the mixture and season with salt.
4. Bake for 20 minutes or until cooked through.

FAQs:
– Can I use lime instead of lemon? Yes, lime works beautifully!

7. Teriyaki Glazed Pork Chops

Bring a taste of Asia to your dinner table with these Teriyaki Glazed Pork Chops! The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce caramelizes beautifully, creating a delightful dish that will impress your family and friends.

These pork chops are easy to make and full of flavor, making them a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients:
– 4 center cut pork chops
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 green onions, chopped
– Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix teriyaki sauce and sesame oil.
2. Marinate pork chops for at least 20 minutes.
3. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Cook pork chops for about 5 minutes per side, basting with the leftover marinade.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce? Yes! Just check for low-sugar options.

8. Maple Balsamic Pork Chops

Indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of Maple Balsamic Pork Chops! This delightful combination elevates your dinner to gourmet levels while keeping it healthy and satisfying. The caramelized glaze adds a rich flavor that you won’t forget.

These pork chops are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them a great choice for any night of the week.

Ingredients:
– 4 center cut pork chops
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the pork chops for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat a skillet over medium heat.
4. Cook pork chops for 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through and caramelized.

FAQs:
– Can I grill these instead? Yes, they grill beautifully!

9. Southwestern Spiced Pork Chops

Ready to add some excitement to your dinner? These Southwestern Spiced Pork Chops are packed with bold flavors from a zesty spice blend that will tantalize your taste buds. Each bite is bursting with personality and perfect for those who love a little kick.

They’re not just flavorful; these chops are also quick to prepare, making them a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients:
– 4 center cut pork chops
– 2 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:
1. Combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork chops.
3. Heat a skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Cook the pork chops for about 6 minutes on each side.

FAQs:
– What can I serve these with? Try black beans and rice for a full meal.

10. Italian Pesto Pork Chops

Craving a taste of Italy? These Italian Pesto Pork Chops are a delightful way to enjoy herby, garlicky flavors that will transport you straight to the Mediterranean. The aromatic pesto creates a mouthwatering experience that pairs beautifully with pasta or a fresh salad.

Not only are they delicious, but they are also quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:
– 4 center cut pork chops
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Rub pork chops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Spread pesto sauce over both sides of the chops.
4. Bake for 15 minutes or until cooked through.

FAQs:
– Can I use store-bought pesto? Absolutely, just choose a quality brand!

Fun fact: center cut pork chop recipes shine when you cook them quickly to lock in juiciness. Italian pesto pork chops pair aromatics with healthy fats, keeping meals satisfying without the extra calories.

11. Mushroom Garlic Sauce Pork Chops

Savor the rich flavors of Mushroom Garlic Sauce Pork Chops! This creamy sauce, loaded with garlic and mushrooms, enhances the pork chops, creating a dish that’s comfort food at its finest.

Not only are they delicious, but they are also simple to prepare, making them a great option for a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients:
– 4 center cut pork chops
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear pork chops for 5-6 minutes on each side.
2. Remove chops and set aside. In the same skillet, add garlic and mushrooms, sautéing until soft.
3. Add cream to the pan and stir, then return pork chops to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.

FAQs:
– Can I use different mushrooms? Yes, feel free to mix your favorites like shiitake or baby bella.

Fun fact: Mushroom Garlic Sauce Pork Chops can go from stove to table in about 25 minutes, making center cut pork chop recipes perfect for busy weeknights. A creamy garlic-mushroom sauce adds flavor without extra fat, so you can enjoy cozy meals and still stay on track.

12. Cilantro Lime Pork Chops

Brighten up your dinner with these refreshing Cilantro Lime Pork Chops! The citrusy lime and fresh cilantro create a delightful zing that makes these chops perfect for any season.

They’re not just vibrant in flavor; they’re also quick to make, making them a go-to choice for busy nights.

Ingredients:
– 4 center cut pork chops
– Juice of 2 limes
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix lime juice, cilantro, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate pork chops for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Cook chops for about 6 minutes on each side until cooked through.

FAQs:
– Can I bake these instead of grilling? Yes, bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes.

13. Cajun-Spiced Pork Chops

Get ready to spice things up with these Cajun-Spiced Pork Chops! A bold blend of spices gives these chops a mouthwatering flavor that will impress everyone at your dinner table.

They’re quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making them a fantastic choice for a weeknight meal.

Ingredients:
– 4 center cut pork chops
– 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:
1. Rub pork chops with Cajun seasoning and salt.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook pork chops for about 4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.

FAQs:
– Can I make my Cajun seasoning? Yes, combine paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme for a homemade blend.

Fun fact: Cajun-spiced center cut pork chops stay tender and flavorful with just 2 tsp Cajun seasoning and 1 tbsp olive oil. For quick weeknights, these center cut pork chop recipes shine—searing then a quick finish keeps them juicy and satisfying.

14. Stuffed Pork Chops with Spinach and Cheese

Indulge in the deliciousness of Stuffed Pork Chops with Spinach and Cheese! These thick chops are filled with a creamy mixture that takes your dinner experience up a notch.

They’re not just tasty; they’re also impressive enough to serve at gatherings, making them a perfect choice for any occasion.

Ingredients:
– 4 center cut pork chops
– 1 cup spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup cream cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Cut a pocket in each pork chop.
3. In a bowl, mix spinach, cream cheese, and shredded cheese.
4. Stuff the mixture into each pork chop and secure with toothpicks.
5. Season with salt and pepper and bake for 25 minutes.

FAQs:
– How do I know when the chops are done? Use a meat thermometer to check for 145°F.

15. Asian Ginger Soy Pork Chops

Bring Asian flavors to your table with these Ginger Soy Pork Chops! The marinade enhances the natural flavor of the chops, making this dish truly irresistible.

They’re not only delicious but also simple to prepare, perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients:
– 4 center cut pork chops
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and honey.
2. Marinate pork chops for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Cook chops for about 5 minutes on each side until cooked through.

FAQs:
– Can I use boneless pork chops? Yes, adjust cooking time as needed.

16. French Onion Soup Pork Chops

Combine the flavors of French onion soup with juicy pork chops for a unique culinary twist! This recipe features a savory onion glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds.

They are hearty, comforting, and perfect for cozy dinners, making your meal feel special without too much effort.

Ingredients:
– 4 center cut pork chops
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp thyme
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté onions until caramelized.
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper and add to the skillet.
3. Pour in beef broth and sprinkle with thyme.
4. Simmer for 20 minutes until the pork is cooked through.

FAQs:
– Can I use chicken broth instead of beef? Yes, it will change the flavor slightly but still be delicious.

17. Mediterranean Quinoa Stuffed Pork Chops

For a healthy twist, try these Mediterranean Quinoa Stuffed Pork Chops! They are packed with protein and flavor, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

These chops are not only nutritious but also a great way to incorporate whole grains into your diet while enjoying a delicious meal.

Ingredients:
– 4 center cut pork chops
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup kalamata olives, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Cut a pocket in each pork chop.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, tomatoes, feta, olives, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pork chop with the mixture and secure with toothpicks.
5. Bake for 30 minutes until cooked through.

FAQs:
– Can I use brown rice instead? Yes, just adjust cooking time as necessary.

18. Sweet and Spicy Pork Chops

Finish off your meal planning with these Sweet and Spicy Pork Chops! A delightful blend of sweetness from brown sugar and heat from cayenne creates a balance that will make this dish a family favorite.

These chops are not only quick to prepare but also deliver a unique flavor experience that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients:
– 4 center cut pork chops
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. Mix brown sugar, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Rub the spice mixture onto both sides of the pork chops.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Cook pork chops for 5 minutes per side until cooked through.

FAQs:
– Can I use another sweetener? Yes, maple syrup works well too.

Conclusion

These 18 thick and juicy center cut pork chop recipes showcase just how versatile and flavorful pork can be when prepared with healthy ingredients. Embrace these delicious dishes and enjoy the journey towards a healthier you, all while savoring every bite!

Mix and match these recipes throughout the week to keep your meals exciting and satisfying. Whether you prefer grilling, baking, or slow cooking, there’s a perfect pork chop recipe waiting for you to try!