Cajun blackened pork chops are a classic dish that's easy to make and packed with flavor. The key to getting that perfect blackened crust is to use a very hot skillet and to not overcrowd the pan. This will help the chops to sear evenly and develop a nice crust. Once the chops are seared, you can finish them off in the oven to ensure that they're cooked through. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Blackened pork chops are a Cajun dish that originated in the late 19th century. The dish is said to have been created by a chef named Paul Prudhomme, who was inspired by the blackened redfish dish that was popular in New Orleans at the time. Prudhomme blackened his pork chops by seasoning them with a mixture of spices, including paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. He then seared the chops in a hot skillet until they were blackened on the outside and cooked through on the inside. Blackened pork chops quickly became a popular dish in Cajun cuisine, and they are now enjoyed by people all over the world.
Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 10 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
4 bone-in pork chops
2 tbsp paprika
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tbsp oregano
1 tbsp thyme
1 tbsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp sea salt
1 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, sea salt, and black pepper.
Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the skillet is hot, add the pork chops and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
Remove from heat and let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving.
Why It Works
The combination of spices in the blackened seasoning creates a flavorful crust on the pork chops.
Searing the pork chops in a hot skillet gives them a nice crust and locks in the juices.
Finishing the pork chops in the oven ensures that they are cooked through.