Thin vs. Thick Pork Chops: Which Should You Choose?

Pork chops make for an effortless, go-to weeknight dinner. They're quick, versatile, and always tasty. But when it comes to grilling, pan-searing, or deep-frying, you might wonder: can any pork chop do the job?

Not exactly. While bone-in and boneless pork chops are slightly different, the thickness of the chop is crucial to the recipe's success. For example, a paper-thin chop on the grill will overcook before it chars, and a thick chop breaded and fried may burn on the outside while staying raw inside. The key is knowing when to pick a thin or thick chop to ensure a juicy result. This guide will help you choose the perfect chop every time.

Thin Pork Chops

A simple rule: if you're aiming for crispy or fried, go with thin pork chops. These chops, ranging from ⅛ to ¼ inch thick, can be boneless or bone-in and are ideal for pan- or deep-frying. They cook quickly and freeze well, making them a convenient choice to keep on hand.

How can you spot thin pork chops at the store? Look for pork cutlets, which are sliced from the pork loin and may include meat from the tenderloin, sirloin, or a mix of both (often labeled as center-cut). Pork cutlets from the tenderloin are especially tender, while those from the sirloin are tougher and should be pounded before cooking to break down the connective tissue and tenderize the meat.

If you're preparing multiple pork cutlets, consider purchasing a whole pork tenderloin and cutting it into medallions at home. From a 1-pound tenderloin, you can typically get about 12 cutlets. If you're unsure, don't hesitate to ask your butcher for assistance.

There are various ways to cook thin pork chops. For a flavorful crust, dredge them in seasoned flour and pan-fry. If you prefer a thicker, heartier crust, set up a breading station with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs or panko, dipping the pork chop into each before cooking. If you don't want a crust, you can simply sauté the pork chops over high heat to achieve a golden-brown sear. Just remember, they cook quickly.

The cooking time for thin pork chops varies by recipe but typically ranges from 4 to 8 minutes in total. If you're breading the chops, expect the cooking time to be on the longer end of that range.

Recipes for Thin Pork Chops

A crispy fried pork chop pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, or you can transform it into a cozy sandwich. But thin pork chops don't have to be fried — they also shine when quickly sautéed and served with a creamy or tangy sauce. Here are some of our favorite thin pork chop recipes:

• Mom's Best Pork Chops
• Fried Pork Chop
• Easy Baked BBQ Pork Chops

Thick Pork Chops

If you're craving smoky, charred flavors, thick pork chops are your go-to. These chops, typically 1 to 1 ½ inches thick, are perfect for grilling, pan-searing, or broiling. While they take a bit longer to cook than thin chops, the rich caramelization on the outside makes it well worth the wait.

Thick pork chops are ideal for brining, which helps lock in both flavor and moisture as they cook. With more meat to work with, thick pork chops are easier to cook to a perfect medium (150°F), no matter your cooking method. In contrast, internal temperature is less critical for thin pork chops, which typically cook through more quickly.

For the best flavor, opt for thick, bone-in pork chops like pork loin or center-cut chops. While cooking time varies based on thickness, expect grilled pork chops to take about 8 minutes (4 minutes per side). Pan-searing thick chops should take around 10 minutes (5 minutes per side). If you're working with extra-thick chops, use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.

Recipes for Thick Pork Chops

Grilled pork chops are fantastic when glazed with a tangy sauce or paired with a fresh fruit salsa, while pan-seared pork chops shine when sautéed with apples or other vegetables. Here are some of our top recipes for thick pork chops:

• Easy Baked Pork Chops
• World's Best Honey Garlic Pork Chops
• Best Grilled Pork Chops
• Juicy Pork Chops

Thin vs. Thick Pork Chops? The thickness of your pork chop should match your cooking goal. Choose thin pork chops for crispy frying and thick pork chops for a smoky char. No matter the thickness, both types offer delicious versatility for any meal.