Preparing the Pork Chops:
- Season the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Dredge the Pork Chops: Place 1/2 cup of flour in a shallow dish. Dredge each pork chop in the flour, shaking off the excess. Reserve the leftover flour for the gravy.
Cooking the Pork Chops:
- Brown the Pork Chops: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Onion Gravy:
- Sauté the Onions: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat until they are soft and golden, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make a Roux: Sprinkle the reserved flour over the onions and stir to combine. Cook for 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer and let the mixture thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Finish the Gravy: Stir in the heavy cream and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Return to a simmer and cook until the gravy has thickened to your liking, about 3-4 minutes.
Combining and Serving:
- Return the Pork Chops to the Skillet: Add the browned pork chops back into the skillet, spooning some of the onion gravy over the top.
- Simmer: Cover and simmer over low heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the pork chops are fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 145°F/63°C) and tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley, if desired. Serve the smothered pork chops hot with plenty of onion gravy.
Tips for Success:
- Thickness of Pork Chops: Thick, bone-in pork chops are best for this recipe as they stay juicier during cooking. Adjust cooking times based on the thickness of your chops.
- Dredging: The flour coating on the pork chops not only helps to brown them but also thickens the gravy.
- Low and Slow: Simmering the pork chops in the gravy on low heat helps them become tender and infuses them with flavor.
Pair these delicious smothered pork chops with your favorite comfort food sides for a meal that’s sure to comfort and satisfy. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a weekend family dinner, this dish brings warmth and flavor to any table.