When it comes to delicious and flavorful meals, Puerto Rican cuisine always delivers. And when it comes to protein-packed dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters, Puerto Rican pork chops are a staple. With their rich flavors and tender texture, these mouthwatering morsels are perfect for any occasion – from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 different flavorful Puerto Rican pork chop recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic dishes like Bistec Encebollado (Puerto Rican Steak and Onions with Pork Chops) to innovative twists like Mojo-Marinated Grilled Puerto Rican Pork Chops, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to experiment with new recipes, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron, fire up the stove, and get ready to indulge in some seriously tasty Puerto Rican pork chops!
Bistec Encebollado (Puerto Rican Steak and Onions with Pork Chops)
Savor the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with this classic dish, where tender steak and caramelized onions are paired with rich pork chops.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 4 pork chops (about 1 lb)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high. Add onions and cook until caramelized (about 10 minutes).
3. Meanwhile, season steak with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill or pan-fry pork chops until cooked through (about 5-7 minutes per side).
5. In a separate skillet, cook the steak to desired doneness (about 3-5 minutes per side).
6. Serve steak and onions with pork chops.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chuletas Fritas (Crispy Fried Puerto Rican Pork Chops)
Savor the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with this mouthwatering dish, where crispy fried pork chops are served with a side of tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 pork chops
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each pork chop into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated chops on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess grease.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total (frying time varies depending on thickness of pork chops)
Chuletas Guisadas (Braised Puerto Rican Pork Chops in Tomato Sauce)
This classic recipe from Puerto Rico is a staple of the island’s cuisine, and for good reason – the slow-cooked pork chops in rich tomato sauce are fall-apart tender and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 pork chops
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the pork chops until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add tomato sauce, chicken broth, and oregano. Stir to combine.
5. Return pork chops to the pot, cover, and simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Pernil-Style Pork Chops with Adobo Rub
Experience the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with this simplified take on traditional pernil-style pork chops, rubbed with a zesty adobo blend.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 2 tablespoons adobo seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together adobo seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice blend evenly onto both sides of the pork chops.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 1-2 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Mojo-Marinated Grilled Puerto Rican Pork Chops
Experience the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with this mouthwatering recipe for Mojo-Marinated Grilled Pork Chops. This classic dish is a staple in many Puerto Rican households, and its tangy, herby goodness will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1/2 cup mojo marinade (see below)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mojo Marinade:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine mojo marinade ingredients and blend until smooth.
2. Place pork chops in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove pork chops from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. Brush both sides of pork chops with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill pork chops for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Chops with Sofrito and Olives
This recipe combines the richness of pork chops with the bold flavors of sofrito, a Spanish condiment made from garlic, onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes. The addition of salty olives adds depth to this hearty dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup sofrito (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking sheet.
4. In the same skillet, add sofrito and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add sliced olives to the skillet and stir to combine with the sofrito.
6. Spoon the sofrito-olive mixture over the pork chops.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Puerto Rican Pork Chops Escabeche (Pickled Pork Chops)
This classic Puerto Rican dish is a flavorful and tangy twist on traditional pork chops, marinated in a mixture of vinegar, garlic, and spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these pickled pork chops are sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 lbs)
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Add the pork chops to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove pork chops from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. Place pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chuletas a la Parrilla (Grilled Puerto Rican Pork Chops with Citrus Glaze)
Experience the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with this mouthwatering grilled pork chop recipe, smothered in a tangy citrus glaze. Perfect for a summer gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 lbs)
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, brown sugar, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the pork chops with olive oil, then season with the citrus glaze mixture.
4. Grill pork chops for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Chops with Mango-Habanero Salsa
Add a tropical twist to your pork chops with this sweet and spicy salsa. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 habanero pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together mango, red onion, habanero pepper, and lime juice.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Grill pork chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve pork chops with Mango-Habanero Salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chuletas al Caldero (Puerto Rican Pork Chops Cooked in a Dutch Oven)
This classic Puerto Rican recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. By cooking the pork chops in a rich tomato-based sauce, you’ll end up with tender, juicy meat that’s infused with the bold flavors of the island.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the pork chops and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Pour in the tomato sauce, chicken broth, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover the Dutch oven and simmer over low heat for 1 1/2 hours, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Garlic and Oregano Smothered Pork Chops
Garlic and Oregano Smothered Pork Chops Recipe
Summary:
Elevate your pork chops with this flavorful recipe, featuring a savory garlic and oregano crust that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, olive oil, and dried oregano.
3. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Place the pork chops in a shallow baking dish and brush the top of each chop with the garlic-oregano mixture.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Chops with Sweet Plantain Mash
Pork Chops with Sweet Plantain Mash Recipe
Enjoy a flavorful and savory dinner with this simple recipe that combines the richness of pork chops with the natural sweetness of plantains. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 2 ripe plantains, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or cumin for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. While pork chops are cooking, boil chopped plantains in salted water for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
5. Drain plantains and mash with a fork or potato masher. Add a squeeze of lime juice to balance the sweetness.
6. Serve pork chops with warm sweet plantain mash.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Coconut Milk-Braised Puerto Rican Pork Chops
This recipe combines the tenderizing power of coconut milk with the bold flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the pork chops until browned on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low; add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Pour in coconut milk; bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Return pork chops to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until pork is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired. Serve with rice, beans, or your favorite sides.
Chuletas con Pimientos (Pork Chops with Roasted Peppers)
A classic Mexican dish that combines the rich flavor of pork chops with the sweet, smoky taste of roasted peppers. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 2 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add pork chops and toss to coat evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking dish.
5. Roast bell peppers and onion on a separate baking sheet at the same temperature (400°F/200°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
6. Serve pork chops with roasted peppers, sliced into strips.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Puerto Rican Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with this mouthwatering dish that combines tender pork chops with a sweet and tangy pineapple salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork chops.
4. Place the pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro in a bowl.
6. Serve the pork chops with the pineapple salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chuletas en Salsa de Cilantro (Pork Chops in Cilantro Sauce)
Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this simple and delicious recipe for Chuletas en Salsa de Cilantro, featuring tender pork chops smothered in a fresh cilantro sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1/2 inch thick)
– 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh tortillas or rice for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and cumin. Blend until smooth.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Grill or pan-fry the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve the pork chops smothered in the cilantro sauce, accompanied by fresh tortillas or a side of rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Chops Stuffed with Ham and Cheese (Chuletas Rellenas)
This Spanish-inspired dish combines the richness of pork chops, savory ham, and melted cheese for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1/2 inch thick)
– 4 slices of cooked ham
– 4 slices of cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. Place a slice of ham on each pork chop, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
4. Top the ham with a slice of cheese.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pork is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Puerto Rican Pork Chops with Avocado Crema
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with the creaminess of avocado, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress. Succulent pork chops are marinated in a mixture of citrus, garlic, and spices, then grilled to perfection and served with a rich Avocado Crema.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the pork chops to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove pork chops from marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine avocado, lime juice, and sour cream in a blender or food processor.
5. Serve grilled pork chops with Avocado Crema spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chuletas con Arroz y Habichuelas (Pork Chops with Rice and Beans)
A hearty, comforting dish that combines tender pork chops with flavorful rice and beans.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Season pork chops with salt and pepper. Add to skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
6. Transfer pork chops to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. In the same skillet, add black beans and stir to combine with onion mixture.
8. Serve pork chops with rice and beans, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow-Cooked Puerto Rican Pork Chops with Sazón
Experience the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with this mouthwatering slow-cooked pork chop recipe, infused with the distinct seasoning of Sazón.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 pork chops
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon Sazón (or Puerto Rican seasoning blend)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, cumin, Sazón, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the pork chops in the slow cooker and brush with the spice mixture.
4. Pour in chicken broth and pineapple juice.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Summary
Puerto Rican cuisine meets pork chops in this collection of 20 flavorful recipes. From crispy fried chops to slow-cooked braises, there’s something for every occasion. Try classic dishes like Bistec Encebollado with steak and onions or Chuletas Fritas with a spicy kick. Or opt for more modern twists like Mojo-Marinated Grilled Pork Chops or Coconut Milk-Braised Pork Chops. With a range of flavors and cooking methods, these recipes are sure to satisfy your pork chop cravings.
