Bring Home The Flavors Of Italy With Juicy Italian Pork Chops

When you want a taste of Italy without the airfare, these savory Italian pork chops are just the ticket. Seared bone-in chops are smothered in a quick tomato and wine sauce flavored with garlic, basil and oregano for all the rich flavor of Northern Italy right on your dinner table. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a mouthwatering meal that rivals anything you’d get in Rome or Tuscany. Grab your passport to flavor town and let’s get started!

Go For Bone-In Rib Chops

Opt for nice thick, bone-in rib pork chops to allow them to cook through without drying out. The bone adds extra flavor to the meat as it cooks too. Aim for chops about an inch thick or go even thicker for ultimate juiciness.

More Flavor In The Bone

That savory pork flavor gets concentrated in the bone, especially near the meat, so rib chops beat out leaner boneless loin chops.

Start With A Simple Brine

Before cooking, let those chops take a quick bath in a salt, sugar and water brine. Just 30 minutes to an hour is sufficient to increase moisture and tenderness so the chops cook up extra juicy.

Short Brine, Big Impact

Even a quick 30-minute soak makes the chops noticeably more flavorful and juicy without getting overly salty.

Pat The Chops Dry

After brining, it’s very important to thoroughly pat the chops dry with paper towels. Dry meat will brown much better in the pan. Let the brine work its magic below the surface while you sear.

Damp Meat Won't Sear

Chops straight from the brine will steam instead of searing. Take the time to pat off every drop of moisture for the best browning.

Sear The Chops In Olive Oil

Getting a nice sear on the pork chops is the foundation for this dish. Use olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chops in batches if needed, 2-3 minutes per side until well browned.

Don't Rush The Sear

Let the pork chops develop a deep, crusty brown exterior for maximum flavor. Take your time and don’t flip too soon.

Build An Italian-Flavored Sauce

After searing the chops, make a simple sauce right in the skillet. Sauté garlic, tomatoes, Italian seasoning and red wine to get all those tasty browned bits off the bottom. Let it simmer until thickened.

Crushed Tomatoes Work Great

For ease, you can use canned crushed tomatoes. Just crush them a bit more in the pan as they simmer.

Simmer The Chops In The Sauce

Once your Italian sauce is ready to go, add those seared pork chops back to the pan along with any juices. Braise for a few minutes per side to finish cooking and let them soak up the flavorful sauce.

Let The Sauce Do Its Thing

At this point, just relax and let the sauce work its magic. The chops will become fall-off-the-bone tender in that tomatoey goodness.

Polenta Is The Perfect Partner

What side dish is better with braised Italian pork chops? Creamy, comforting polenta, of course! The soft, corny polenta soaks up the rich sauce beautifully. Serve it right on the bottom to catch all that flavor.

Cheesy Polenta Takes It Over The Top

Stir in some shredded parmesan or fontina cheese for next level creamy, cheesy polenta that can't be beat.

Let's Review The Steps

Here's a quick recap of how to make these sensational Italian pork chops:

1. Brine the chops briefly to season and tenderize.

2. Pat the chops very dry before searing.

3. Sear the chops in olive oil until nicely browned.

4. Make an Italian tomato and wine sauce in the pan.

5. Braise the chops in the sauce until tender.

Craving More Italian Flavor?

If you can't get enough of these Italian pork chops, try serving them over hot cooked pasta tossed in the sauce. Rigatoni or penne work great. Just save a little sauce before adding the chops to toss with al dente pasta. Bellisimo!

Top 5 Questions About Italian Pork Chops

Do I have to brine the chops?

Brining is highly recommended but you can skip it in a pinch. Just be aware they may turn out drier.

Can I use boneless chops instead?

You can, though bone-in have more flavor. Reduce cooking time for boneless.

What if I don't have Italian seasoning?

Substitute dried basil, oregano, thyme and rosemary or use what you have on hand.

Does the sauce freeze well?

Absolutely! Freeze any extra sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

What protein can I swap in?

Chicken or turkey cutlets also work beautifully with this Italian sauce.

In Summation

These easy Italian pork chops deliver tons of flavor with just a handful of ingredients and basic techniques. Don't be afraid to play around with different spices, herbs, and accompaniments to make this saucy braise your own. Now grab a fork and mangia!