These Easy Mexican Pork Chops are packed with bold, zesty flavors perfect for a weeknight dinner. Quick to prepare and full of seasoning, they’re juicy, tender, and pair perfectly with rice or vegetables.
Spice up dinner night with these Easy Mexican Pork Chops! Bursting with bold, zesty flavors, this recipe takes simple pork chops and transforms them into a juicy, mouthwatering meal.
With just a few pantry-friendly spices and quick cooking, you can have a restaurant-worthy dinner on the table in no time.
Perfect for pairing with rice, beans, or roasted veggies, these pork chops are a flavorful twist that will have the whole family coming back for seconds..
Why You Will Love This Recipe!
- Juicy, tender pork chops every time—never dry.
- Bold, zesty Mexican flavors that pack a punch.
- Quick and simple prep, perfect for busy nights.
- Pairs beautifully with rice, beans, or veggies.
- A family-friendly recipe that impresses without the fuss.
Ingredients Needed
- Pork Chops: Thick, juicy pork chops perfect for weeknight dinners
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil for searing pork chops
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds bold, savory flavor to meat
- Chili Powder: Spicy chili powder for authentic Mexican flavor punch
- Paprika: Sweet smoked paprika enhances color and smoky taste
- Cumin: Ground cumin brings earthy warmth to the pork
- Salt: Kosher salt to season and enhance all flavors
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper for a subtle kick
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens flavor and balances spices
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro for garnish and added herbal freshness
Substitutions and Variations
- Add sliced onions or bell peppers while cooking for extra flavor.
- Brush chops with a thin layer of honey or agave for a sweet-spicy twist.
- Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese on top before serving.
- Make it smoky by finishing with a few drops of chipotle in adobo sauce.
- Serve over Mexican rice, cauliflower rice, or alongside roasted veggies for a complete meal.
How To Make Easy Mexican Pork Chops
Step One: Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel. This helps them crisp up in the air fryer. Brush both sides with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix garlic, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mix evenly on both sides of each chop.
Step Two: Set your air fryer temperature to 400 degrees F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Place the seasoned pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Set cook time for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Step Three: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the cooked pork chops. Garnish with cilantro if desired
Other Cooking Methods
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the seasoned pork chops on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Grilled: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Grill the pork chops for 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Instant Pot: Add a cup of chicken broth to the Instant Pot and place the seasoned pork chops on the trivet. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, then use natural release for 5 minutes before serving.
- Stove-Top: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil. Sear the pork chops for 5-6 minutes per side, then cover and reduce heat slightly until cooked through.
Easy Mexican Pork Chops Recipe Tips
- Choose the right cut: Bone-in pork chops stay juicier, but boneless works fine if you prefer quick cooking.
- Pat chops dry: Removing excess moisture helps them get a crispier crust in the air fryer or on the stove.
- Even seasoning: Rub the spice mix on both sides and along the edges for full flavor in every bite.
- Check internal temperature: Pork should reach 145°F for safe and tender results. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Let them rest: After cooking, rest the chops for 3-5 minutes to lock in juices.
- Customize spice levels: Add cayenne or smoked paprika for extra heat, or reduce chili powder if you prefer milder flavor.
- Add fresh toppings: Lime juice, chopped cilantro, or diced onions take the dish from good to restaurant-quality in seconds.
What to Serve with Mexican Pork Chops
Pair these flavorful Mexican pork chops with a side of zesty Mexican rice or roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.
Fresh salsa, guacamole, or a crisp salad can add brightness and balance to every bite.
Storing Instructions
Store leftover Mexican pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the air fryer until heated through, making sure not to overcook.
Easy Mexican Pork Chops Recipe Faqs
Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless? Yes, Bone-in chops may take a few minutes longer to cook. Just monitor the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 145°F (63°C).
How do I keep the pork chops juicy? Pat the chops dry before seasoning, don’t overcook, and let them rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
Can I freeze these pork chops? Yes, fully cooked pork chops can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer.
What sides go well with Mexican pork chops? Serve with Mexican rice, roasted veggies, a fresh salad, or even tortillas for a complete meal.
Can I make this recipe spicy? Definitely! Add extra chili powder, cayenne, or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix for more heat.
Can I use a different spice blend? Yes, feel free to swap in taco seasoning, fajita seasoning, or your favorite Mexican-inspired spice mix.
More Easy Pork Chop Recipes
Crockpot Brown Gravy Smothered Pork Chops
Waffle House Pork Chops Recipe
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Easy Mexican Pork Chops
Description
Ingredients
- 8 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Pat the 8 boneless pork chops dry with a paper towel. This helps them crisp up in the air fryer.
- Brush both sides with 2 tablespoons olive oil. In a small bowl, mix 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 2 teaspoons chili powder, 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, 2 teaspoons ground cumin, 1 teaspoon salt and1 teaspoon black pepper. Rub the seasoning evenly on both sides of each chop.
- Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- Place the pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Ensure internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Squeeze Juice of 1 lime over cooked pork chops and garnish with Fresh cilantro if desired.
Equipment
- Cooking Spray
- Parchment Paper, optional
Notes
- Oven: Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Grill: Grill over medium heat 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Stovetop: Sear in a skillet over medium-high heat 5-6 minutes per side.
- Instant Pot: Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes with ½ cup water, then quick release
Nutrition
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Victoria Bolin
Turned out nice and golden brown. I also did a basket of vegetables in there at the same time. Easy instant dinner. Very tasty!