What Are Broiled Pork Chops?

Broiled pork chops are individual portions of cut meat, usually cooked in a broiler pan and placed on a low rack inside the oven. Heating elements from above will cook the meat thoroughly. Before broiling, the chops are usually seasoned with various spices or herbs. Broiled pork chops are typically made from the choice cuts of the pig, which may include center, loin cut, or rib portion. Broiled pork chops may be boneless or bone-in.

Cooking times for broiled pork chops may vary according to oven type. With the oven set to broil, the meat will be placed about 4 inches (10.2 centimeters) from the heat. Broiling requires extremely high temperatures, although the process generally takes less cooking time than baking. Not all pork chops are oven broiled, however. Some recipes call for pan-broiled pork chops, and this requires the use of a stove-top skillet.

Top loin chops may be stuffed with various ingredients, such as seasoned bread crumbs. Pine nuts are also used for stuffing top loin pork chops. Green and red peppers, as well as other vegetables, may also be used for stuffed pork chops.

Seasoning or marinating the meat is typically done before broiling the pork chops. Various types of marinades can be purchased at supermarkets or may be homemade from scratch. Honey and soy sauce are two common ingredients used for marinating. Worcestershire sauce may be added to a marinade as well. Marinades for broiled pork chops are generally applied to the meat with a grilling brush.

Brown sugar broiled pork chops are a sweet alternative to savory recipes. Spices may also be added, although the packed brown sugar offsets the pungent taste. Asian ginger pork is another popular recipe commonly served in Chinese restaurants. For those who prefer a light flavor, broiled pork chops may be prepared using a small amount of olive oil, parsley, salt, and pepper.

Broiled, breaded pork chops can be prepared with a mixture of bread crumbs, eggs, lemon juice, and grated cheese. The mixture can be used to baste the pork chops. Broiled pork chops with breading have a tendency to brown faster, so it's important not to overcook the meat.

Cooking times may vary according to the thickness of the chops. For standard sized pork chops, broiling generally takes anywhere from 10-15 minutes. It is recommended to turn the pork chops during the broiling process so heat is evenly distributed and the meat is cooked thoroughly.