Chipotle Crusted Pork Tenderloins Can Sub Chops
Elevate your weeknight dinners with these bold and flavorful Chipotle Crusted Pork Tenderloins (or chops, if you prefer!). This recipe combines smoky chipotle chili powder, earthy smoked paprika, and a hint of brown sugar for a perfect balance of spice and sweetness. The pork is first seared to lock in its juices, then roasted to tender perfection in the oven. With an optional squeeze of bright lime juice, this smoky-sweet main dish is easy to prepare, yet sophisticated enough to impress. Ideal for pork tenderloin or pork chops, this recipe is versatile and pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a fast and irresistible option for any occasion!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork tenderloins (or substitute pork chops)
- 2 tbsp chipotle chili powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lime juice (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). If using pork chops instead of tenderloin, adjust the cook time slightly (chops may take less time).
Pat the pork tenderloins (or chops) dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
In a small mixing bowl, combine the chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, brown sugar, kosher salt, and black pepper.
Drizzle the olive oil over the pork and rub it in evenly to coat. This will help the spice mixture adhere to the meat.
Liberally sprinkle the spice mixture over the pork and gently press it in to form an even crust.
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides for 2-3 minutes per side, until a golden crust forms.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the pork tenderloins for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for well-done. Pork chops may take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on their thickness.
Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy meat.
If desired, squeeze a bit of fresh lime juice over the pork for added brightness.
Slice the pork into medallions (or serve chops whole) and plate alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1691 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 62.6 g | 80% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.7 g | 78% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 562 mg | 188% | |
| Sodium | 1969 mg | 86% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 30.7 g | 11% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.1 g | 32% | |
| Total Sugars | 12.6 g | ||
| Protein | 240.9 g | 482% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.6 mcg | 8% | |
| Calcium | 140 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 14.8 mg | 82% | |
| Potassium | 4400 mg | 94% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
