These garlic butter pork chops are juicy and super tasty! Pan-seared to golden perfection, they have a wonderful garlic flavor that fills the kitchen.
Cooking them is a breeze! I love making these when I want something simple yet special for dinner. A side of veggies or mashed potatoes makes them even better! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and juiciness. If you want a leaner option, use boneless chops or even chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time since they cook quicker.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the salt level better. If you need a dairy-free option, use olive oil or a plant-based butter. It won’t have the exact same flavor, but it works well.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a punch of flavor, but garlic powder can work as a substitute in a pinch. Simply use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove, but fresh is best for this dish!
Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary are wonderful, but if you don’t have them, dried herbs will do. Use half the amount since dried herbs are more potent. Parsley is perfect for garnish and adds color.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Juicy and Flavorful?
One big key to juicy pork chops is letting them sit out before cooking. This helps them cook evenly. After seasoning, heating the skillet just right is essential too—medium-high heat is perfect for a nice crust.
- When you first add the pork chops, don’t touch them for about 4-5 minutes. This creates that golden crust.
- Lower the heat after flipping to keep the insides from drying out. The butter and garlic sauce really enrich the flavor as you spoon it over.
- Lastly, always let them rest after cooking! This keeps the juices inside.
Garlic Butter Pork Chops Pan Seared to Perfection
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and another 15-20 minutes of cook time. In just about 30-35 minutes, you can serve up a delightful meal that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by taking the pork chops out of the refrigerator about 20 minutes before you plan to cook. This helps them reach room temperature for even cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. This means it’s hot enough to sear the pork chops!
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Carefully place the seasoned pork chops into the hot skillet. Don’t move them for about 4-5 minutes. This will create a delicious golden-brown crust!
4. Add Flavor:
Once the pork chops are nicely browned, flip them over. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, minced garlic, thyme, and optional rosemary to the skillet. As the butter melts, it will mix with the garlic and herbs to create a flavorful sauce.
5. Baste the Pork Chops:
As the pork chops cook, use a spoon to continuously baste them with the melted butter and garlic mixture. This will keep them juicy and enhance the flavor. Cook for another 4-5 minutes or until the internal temperature hits 145°F (63°C).
6. Let Them Rest:
Once the pork chops are cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Sprinkle the rested pork chops with chopped parsley for a fresh touch and serve with optional lemon wedges on the side. Squeezing a little lemon juice over the top adds a nice zing to the dish!
Enjoy your perfectly pan-seared garlic butter pork chops!
FAQ for Garlic Butter Pork Chops Recipe
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. However, keep an eye on the cooking time—boneless chops tend to cook faster, so check them at about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh thyme or rosemary, dried herbs can be substituted. Use about half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Just sprinkle them in the pan along with the garlic and butter.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to help keep them moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can throw in some spinach, mushrooms, or green beans in the skillet after flipping the pork chops. Just sauté them in the butter and garlic for added flavor and nutrition!
