Are you looking for a delicious and easy to prepare pork chop recipe that won't ruin your diet? Look no further than a small or thin cut pork chop! With just 139 calories, this broiled or baked breaded or floured pork chop (lean and fat eaten) is a great protein source that won't sabotage your weight loss goals.

But pork chops aren't just low-calorie – they're also a great source of nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, and zinc. By broiling or baking your pork chop, you can enjoy all of these benefits without adding any extra fat.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about cooking and enjoying a small or thin cut pork chop, including recommended cooking times, pairing ideas, and tips for enhancing the flavor with seasonings and marinades.

Calories in a small or thin cut pork chop

As we already mentioned, a small or thin cut pork chop (3 oz, with bone, raw) is only 139 calories per serving. However, it's important to note that this calorie count is for the bone-in, raw chop – once you remove the bone and cook the meat, the calorie count will be slightly higher.

Benefits of broiling or baking pork chop

When it comes to cooking a pork chop, broiling or baking is a great choice for a few reasons. First, it's a low-fat cooking method that won't add any extra calories to your meal. Second, it allows the pork chop to cook evenly, ensuring that you don't end up with overcooked or undercooked meat. Finally, broiled or baked pork chops are easy to prepare and don't require a lot of time or effort.

Nutritional value of lean and fat in pork chop

A small or thin cut pork chop contains both lean and fat portions, which can make it a nutritious addition to your diet. The lean portion of the pork chop is a great source of protein, with 22 grams per serving. Meanwhile, the fat portion of the pork chop contains healthy unsaturated fats like omega-3 fatty acids.

Preparing breaded or floured pork chop

If you prefer a breaded or floured pork chop, there are a few things you'll need to do to prepare it. Start by seasoning your pork chop with salt and black pepper. Then, coat it lightly in flour or breadcrumbs. Finally, fry it in a small amount of oil until it's golden brown and cooked through.

Recommended cooking time for pork chop

The exact cooking time for a small or thin cut pork chop will depend on a few factors, including the thickness of the chop and the heat of your broiler or oven. However, as a general rule of thumb, you can expect to cook your pork chop for 6-8 minutes per side under the broiler, or 20-25 minutes in a 400 degree oven.

Pairing pork chop with various sides

While a pork chop is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right sides can take your meal to the next level. Depending on your preferences, you might opt for classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans, or mix things up with more modern options like quinoa salad and roasted Brussels sprouts.

Seasonings and marinades to enhance pork chop flavor

Although a pork chop is flavorful on its own, adding seasonings and marinades can take it to a whole new level. Some popular options include garlic, rosemary, lemon juice, and soy sauce. For an even easier option, try using a pre-made dry rub or marinade mix.

Different methods of cooking pork chop

While broiling or baking pork chops is a great option, there are plenty of other ways to cook this versatile meat. For example, you might try grilling your pork chop for a smoky flavor, or pan-searing it for a crispy crust. No matter how you choose to cook your pork chop, be sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure that it's fully cooked.

Health considerations when consuming pork chop

While pork chops can be a healthy addition to your diet, it's important to keep a few things in mind when consuming them. First, be mindful of the portion size – while a small or thin cut pork chop is low in calories, a larger chop can be much higher. Additionally, avoid consuming pork chops too frequently, as they can be high in saturated fat. Finally, be sure to cook your pork chops to a safe internal temperature of 145 degrees F to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.

Variations of pork chop dishes

While a simple pork chop can be delicious on its own, there are plenty of variations you can try to mix things up. For example, you might try a stuffed pork chop with cheese and spinach, or a sweet and savory glaze with apricot jam and Dijon mustard. For something a little more exotic, try a Vietnamese-style lemongrass pork chop.