1-Getting started with smothered pork chops is straightforward and rewarding, especially if you’re a busy parent or student looking for quick meals. Begin by mixing the garlic powder, onion powder, half the salt, and black pepper, then season the pork chops on both sides for that essential flavor base. Let the seasoned chops sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to enhance tenderness, as shared in the tips for best results.

2-Next, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil or olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and sear the pork chops until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once done, remove them and keep them warm while you build the gravy. Add the remaining oil to the skillet, then pour in ¼ cup of chicken broth to deglaze, scraping up those tasty browned bits for extra depth.

3-Now, add the sliced sweet yellow onion and cook until it’s browned and tender, roughly 8-10 minutes, infusing the dish with sweet-savory notes. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to coat, creating a smooth base for the gravy. Gradually pour in the remaining 1¾ cups of chicken broth, stir in the ground sage and the rest of the salt, and let it simmer until thickened, about 1 minute.

4-Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy and spooning onions on top for even coverage. Cook until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, which takes 2-6 minutes don’t forget to use a meat thermometer to keep things juicy. The total preparation time is just 40 minutes, with 15 minutes for prep and 25 for cooking, making it perfect for weeknights.

5-For nutritional insights, [external link: learn about pork chop calories](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/pork-chop-calories) to see how this fits into a balanced diet. Once ready, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley and serve with mashed potatoes if you like. This step-by-step guide adapts easily, such as using gluten-free options, aligning with the recipe’s flexibility for diet-conscious folks.