These easy savory lemon butter pork chops are juicy and full of flavor. With just a few ingredients like tender pork, butter, and zesty lemon, they come together in no time!
Cooking these chops always makes my kitchen smell amazing! I love serving them with veggies or rice for a delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, boneless pork chops or even chicken breasts can work well too. Just watch the cooking time to avoid overcooking!
Olive Oil: A staple for cooking, but feel free to substitute with vegetable or canola oil if that’s what you have on hand. They both do a good job getting that nice sear.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives the sauce a rich creaminess. If you’re looking to reduce saturated fat, you can use a plant-based butter or margarine instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic truly makes a difference, but in a pinch, garlic powder can be used. Use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove. Just add it to the sauce later in the process.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is best for bright flavor. If fresh lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice can substitute, but the flavor won’t be quite as fresh. For a sweeter touch, consider orange juice.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
Getting that perfect sear on your pork chops is key for both flavor and texture. It’s all about getting your pan hot enough and not overcrowding it.
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the oil. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers.
- Don’t move the chops around too much while they cook. Let them sit for those 4-5 minutes to develop a nice, brown crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for juicy, tender pork.
These simple steps will help ensure your pork chops are mouthwatering every time!
Easy Savory Lemon Butter Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for sauce)
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Optional side: roasted asparagus or your favorite vegetable
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend about 25 minutes from start to finish, which makes this a quick and satisfying meal!
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork Chops
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step helps them sear better. Season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C). Once cooked, remove the chops from the skillet and set them on a plate to rest.
3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once it’s melted, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until it becomes fragrant but not browned. Next, mix in the lemon juice, chicken broth (if using), lemon zest, and chopped parsley. Allow the sauce to simmer for 1-2 minutes, making sure to scrape up any delicious browned bits from the pan.
4. Combine and Serve
Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon the lemon butter sauce generously over them. Let them cook for another minute to reheat. Finally, serve the pork chops hot, garnished with extra parsley and lemon slices. Pair with roasted asparagus or your favorite vegetable for a tasty meal!
Enjoy this juicy, flavorful pork chop dish with a bright, buttery lemon sauce that’s quick and easy to prepare!
FAQ for Easy Savory Lemon Butter Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used for this recipe. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Other Sides Would Pair Well with This Dish?
This dish goes great with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a light salad. Roasted vegetables also complement the lemony flavor beautifully.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of lemon juice or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Freeze the Cooked Pork Chops?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork chops! Place them in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll last for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
