Cajun Pork Chops

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Difficulty Level:  Easy to Medium

• Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Cajun Pork Chops:

• 4 boneless pork chops (¾ to 1 inch thick)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (plus more for pan)

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp salt

• Optional: A squeeze of lemon for serving

For the Sautéed Zucchini:

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ¼ inch rounds

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: Fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cajun Spice Blend

In a small bowl, mix together:

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp salt

This homemade Cajun seasoning is aromatic, earthy, and slightly spicy. You can make a double batch and keep the rest in an airtight jar for future use.

Step 2: Season the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps get a beautiful sear and prevents steaming.

Rub each chop with olive oil, then generously coat both sides with the Cajun spice blend. Let the seasoned pork rest for about 5 minutes while you prep your zucchini. This gives time for the flavors to soak in.

Step 3: Cook the Pork Chops

Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Once the oil is shimmering (but not smoking), place the pork chops in the pan. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary.

• Cook time per side: About 4-5 minutes

• You’re looking for a golden-brown crust and an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for juicy, fully cooked chops.

Once done, remove the pork chops from the pan and set them aside to rest. Resting is important—it lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is moist and tender.

Step 4: Sauté the Zucchini

In the same skillet (don’t clean it—you want to retain those flavorful pan drippings), reduce the heat to medium.

Add 1 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp olive oil. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Now, add the zucchini slices in a single layer (or as evenly as possible). Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.

• Cook time: 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally.

• You want the zucchini to be tender but not mushy, with slightly golden edges.

Optional: In the last minute of cooking, sprinkle a tablespoon of grated Parmesan over the zucchini for extra richness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Plate your pork chops with a generous helping of sautéed zucchini on the side. Garnish with chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon if desired.

You can also serve it with cauliflower rice, quinoa, or a crisp green salad for a more complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes

• Roasted sweet potatoes

• Wild rice or brown rice

• A crisp apple-cabbage slaw for contrast

• A chilled glass of Chardonnay or iced tea

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Note: Values are estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

This meal is ideal for low-carb or ketogenic diets, and it’s gluten-free by nature. If you’re tracking macros or eating clean, it’s a satisfying, protein-rich option.