Reheating pork chops may not be rocket science, but it’s easy to make mistakes that can result in dry, tough meat that doesn’t quite hit the spot.
I’ve been repeating the same “reheating mistakes” until I’ve learned some tips and tricks for getting juicy, flavorful pork chops every time. Now I no longer waste a delicious meal by not reheating it properly.
From juicy oven-baked chops to crispy air-fried ones, I’ll show you how to get the best results every time by using different reheating methods. Let’s dive in and discover how to reheat pork chops in a way that preserves their juicy, tender texture and flavor!
1. How To Reheat Pork Chops On The Stovetop
Reheating pork chops on the stovetop is one of the quickest and easiest ways to get them warm and ready to eat.
A stovetop reheating method is a great option if you’re short on time or don’t want to use the oven or microwave. Here’s how to reheat pork chops on the stovetop in a way that preserves their juicy texture and delicious flavor:
• Step 1: Take the pork chops out of the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Doing this will help pork chops heat more evenly when you cook them.
• Step 2: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil to the skillet and let it heat up.
• Step 3: Add the pork chops to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, (or until they’re heated). If you want to add extra flavor, then add some garlic, herbs, or spices to the skillet.
• Step 4: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), leftovers should be reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F (73°C) before serving.
Pro tip: Ensure your food thermometer is placed into the thickest part of your pork chop.
• Step 5: Once the pork chops are heated, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
THE KEY THING TO REMEMBER: Heat pork chops slowly and at a low temperature to avoid drying out or overcooking them.
2. Reheating Pork Chops In The Oven
Reheating pork chops in the oven will give you crispy skin and keep the meat juicy. Here’s how to reheat pork chops in the oven the right way:
• Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C).
• Step 2: Take the pork chops out of the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
• Step 3: Place the pork chops in an oven-safe dish and cover the dish with foil. This will help to trap the heat and moisture.
• Step 4: Put the dish in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes. Pork chops (or any other leftovers) should be reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F (73°C) before serving.
• Step 5: Remove the dish from the oven and take off the foil. If you want to add a crispy texture to the pork chops, you can put them under the broiler for a few minutes.
• Step 6: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to become more tender.
3. Reheating Pork Chops In An Air Fryer
Reheating pork chops in an air fryer is a great option when you can’t or don’t want to use an oven or stove.
Also, an air fryer is a healthier alternative to other methods because it provides a crispy texture without using oil.
The process of reheating the pork chops in an air fryer is simple, and it doesn’t take much time to complete:
• Step 1: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (232°C).
• Step 2: Take the pork chops out of the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
• Step 3: Lightly coat the pork chops with cooking spray or oil. This will help to prevent them from sticking to the air fryer basket.
• Step 4: Place the pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not overlapping. If you’re reheating multiple pork chops, you may need to do this in batches.
• Step 5: Air fry the pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are heated and crispy. The internal temperature of the reheated pork chops should reach 165°F (73°C) to be safe to eat.
• Step 6: Once the pork chops are heated through, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
4. How To Reheat Pork Chops On The Grill
Reheating pork chops on the grill will give them a delicious, smoky flavor and juicy texture. With just a few simple steps, you can turn your leftovers into a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ:
• Step 1: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
• Step 2: Let your pork chops sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
• Step 3: Brush the pork chops with a light layer of olive oil on both sides to prevent sticking and dryness. (I do the same when reheating fish).
• Step 4: Place the pork chops on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are heated through and have grill marks.
• Step 5: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops. The safe temperature for reheated pork is 165°F (73°C).
• Step 6: Once the pork chops have reached the desired temperature, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
NOTE: If your pork chops are too dry or overcooked, brush them with a little bit of BBQ sauce or marinade to add some moisture and flavor.
5. How To Reheat Pork Chops Sous Vide
Reheating pork chops sous vide is a great way to ensure that they stay moist and tender, and the searing step at the end gives them a delicious crispy crust. Give it a try and enjoy your leftover pork chops in a whole new way:
• Step 1: Preheat your sous vide cooker to the desired temperature. The safe temperature for reheating cooked pork is 135°F (57°C) or higher.
• Step 2: Take your leftover pork chops out of the refrigerator and place them in a resealable plastic bag. You can also add any seasonings or marinade you like at this point.
• Step 3: Seal the bag using a vacuum sealer or the water displacement method to remove air bubbles.
• Step 4: Place the bag in the preheated sous vide water bath and cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the pork chops have reached the desired temperature.
• Step 5: Once the pork chops are heated, remove them from the bag and pat them dry with a paper towel.
• Step 6: Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and add some oil or butter.
• Step 7: Sear the pork chops in the hot skillet for 1-2 minutes on each side until they are nicely brown and crispy.
• Step 8: Serve the reheated pork chops immediately with your favorite sides and garnishes.
6. Reheating Pork Chops In A Steamer
Reheating in a steamer is a gentle method that will help preserve the texture and flavor of pork chops. Plus, it’s easy and quick, making it a great option for busy weeknights or when you need to reheat leftovers in a hurry.
Here’s how to reheat pork chops in a steamer:
• Step 1: Take your leftover pork chops out of the fridge and bring them to room temperature for about 20 minutes.
• Step 2: Fill your steamer with water and heat it to a boil.
• Step 3: While the water is heating up, place your pork chops on a heatproof plate that fits in your steamer basket.
• Step 4: Cover the plate with a lid or aluminum foil, making sure it’s sealed tightly to prevent steam from escaping.
• Step 5: Once the water in the steamer has come to a boil, place the plate with the pork chops inside the steamer basket.
• Step 6: Steam the pork chops for 5-7 minutes or until they are heated. The safe internal temperature for reheated pork is 165°F (73°C).
• Step 7: Once the pork chops are heated, carefully remove the plate from the steamer basket using oven mitts or a kitchen towel.
• Step 8: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
7. How To Reheat Pork Chops In The Microwave
Yes, you can use your microwave to reheat pork chops, but microwaves aren’t the best way to reheat pork chops. Why?
It’s a great option if you’re short on time or don’t want to use the oven, but keep in mind that the microwave may not produce the same crispy texture as other reheating methods.
Still, if you choose the microwave method, make sure you select the medium power setting and use a microwave-safe plate. Here’s how to reheat pork chops in the microwave:
• Step 1: Place the pork chops on a microwave-safe plate or a container, and cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or with a damp paper towel. This will help to trap moisture and prevent the pork chops from drying out, as stated by the USDA.
• Step 3: Set the microwave to 50% power. Cooking the pork chops at a lower power level will help to ensure that they heat evenly and do not become overcooked.
• Step 4: Microwave the pork chops for 1-2 minutes, then check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Reheated pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (73°C) before serving. If they’re not fully heated, continue microwaving them in 30-second intervals until they reach the desired temperature.
• Step 5: Once the pork chops are fully heated, remove them from the microwave and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.
8. How To Reheat Fried Pork Chops
Reheating fried pork chops is best done in an oven following these steps:
• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Step 2: Take your leftover fried pork chops out of the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 20 minutes.
• Step 3: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, and place the pork chops on the baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between them.
• Step 4: Brush a little bit of oil or butter over the pork chops to help them crisp up.
• Step 5: Bake the pork chops in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until they are heated and crispy.
• Step 6: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops. Leftovers should be reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F (73°C) before serving.
• Step 7: Once the pork chops are heated and have a crispy texture, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
NOTE: If you don’t have an oven, you can also reheat fried pork chops in a skillet. Heat a small amount of oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the pork chops for a few minutes on each side until they’re heated and crispy.
6 Common Mistakes You Should Avoid When Reheating Pork Chops
To make sure that your pork chops are properly reheated, here are some common reheating mistakes to avoid:
1. Reheating them for too long – Overheating pork chops can cause them to dry out and become tough. Follow the recommended cooking time and use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
2. Not letting them come to room temperature – Reheating pork chops straight from the fridge can result in uneven cooking and tough meat. Let them come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before reheating.
3. Microwaving them – Microwaving pork chops can result in uneven cooking and a rubbery texture, so avoid using this reheating method unless you have no other options.
4. Not adding moisture – Leftover pork chops can dry out during the reheating process, especially in the oven or on the grill. Brushing them with a little bit of oil or adding some marinade can help keep them moist and flavorful.
5. Not using the right temperature – Reheating pork chops at too high or too low a temperature can affect their texture and flavor. Follow the recommended temperature and cooking time for the best results.
6. Not letting them rest – Letting pork chops rest for a few minutes after reheating can help redistribute the juices and ensure they stay tender and juicy.
Reheating Pork Chops The Right Way
Whether you choose to reheat them in the oven, on the grill, in a steamer, or using sous vide, make sure to avoid common reheating mistakes such as overheating, not adding moisture, and not letting them rest. As always, the best way to reheat your pork chops is the right way. Happy reheating!
