Pecan Pork Chops
Juicy pork chops are coated with seasoned bread crumbs, topped with maple syrup and chopped pecans, creating a sweet and nutty dish perfect for any dinner occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a skillet.
- Coat pork chops with seasoned bread crumbs.
- Add pork chops to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Top each chop with maple syrup.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans over the maple syrup.
- Cook until pecans are toasted and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in a mixture of maple syrup and mustard before coating with seasoned bread crumbs. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be a great substitute. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chops to achieve a deliciously crispy crust. For extra flavor, use a mix of spices in the bread crumbs, such as garlic powder and paprika.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pecan pork chops alongside creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. A fresh salad, like He-Man'S Salad, also pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the dish. For a complete dinner, consider offering Aunt Pat'S Baked Beans as a side, balancing the sweetness of the maple syrup with a savory touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pecan pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of maple syrup to keep them moist, or microwave them covered with a damp paper towel for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Pork Chops contains roughly 1014 calories, with 26g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (52% of the Daily Value), iron (49% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1099mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used in place of bone-in chops. They will cook faster, so be sure to monitor them closely to avoid overcooking. Adjust the cooking time to about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
What can I substitute for maple syrup?
If you don't have maple syrup, honey or agave nectar can be good alternatives. While the flavor will differ slightly, they will still provide the sweetness needed for this dish. Just be cautious with the amount, as honey is sweeter than maple syrup.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
You can prepare the pork chops and coat them with bread crumbs up to a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. This helps the flavors meld, and you can have a quick dinner option ready when you need it.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).