These Easy Lemon Butter Pork Chops are juicy and packed with flavor! The buttery lemon sauce adds a zesty kick that makes every bite a treat. It’s perfect for a quick dinner!
I love how simple it is to whip these up. Just sear the chops, add the sauce, and you’re ready to impress. Pair with some veggies, and you’ve got a meal that’s fancy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and juiciness! If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops work too. Just adjust cooking time down slightly for thinner cuts.
Butter: Unsalted butter is key here since it lets you control the salt. If you’re watching your dairy intake, try using olive oil entirely instead—just keep an eye on the heat to prevent burning.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best taste, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Just go light—about 1/4 teaspoon should do. If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding some red pepper flakes.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness! Bottled lemon juice works, but it’s not quite the same. For more flavor, consider adding some lemon thyme or rosemary if you have those herbs on hand.
Chicken Broth or White Wine: Chicken broth keeps it simple, but white wine adds a layer of depth. If you want a non-alcoholic version, use vegetable broth or even water with a splash of vinegar.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Seared Pork Chops?
Getting a good sear on your pork chops is essential for great flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with pork chops at room temperature; this helps them cook evenly.
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chops—this creates that delicious crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if needed, cook in batches to maintain the heat.
- Avoid flipping too soon! Let them brown for about 4-5 minutes before turning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; you want 145°F, and they’ll stay juicy!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly cooked, mouth-watering pork chops every time!
Easy Lemon Butter Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 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 lemon, juiced and zested (reserve some slices for garnish)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking, making this a quick and delightful meal that takes just about 25 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with some paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear. Sprinkle both sides generously with salt and pepper to flavor them well.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 145°F). When done, take the chops out and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
With the skillet still hot, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, and let it melt gently. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown.
4. Add the Lemon and Broth:
Now, stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth (or white wine). Get a wooden spoon and scrape up all the delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes; it’ll reduce a little and become even more flavorful.
5. Combine and Let Soak:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning that tasty lemon butter sauce over them. Let everything cook together for another minute, so the chops absorb all those great flavors!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley over the chops and garnish with lemon slices for a lovely presentation. Serve right away alongside your favorite sides like roasted asparagus or creamy mashed potatoes.
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful Easy Lemon Butter Pork Chops!
FAQ for Easy Lemon Butter Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work well, but they will cook faster, so keep an eye on them. Aim for a cooking time of about 3-4 minutes per side and check for doneness at 145°F.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemons?
No worries! You can use bottled lemon juice instead, but the flavor won’t be as fresh. About 2 tablespoons of bottled lemon juice will suffice. Feel free to add a little lemon zest from a lemon you may have on hand to enhance the flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the lemon butter sauce in advance and refrigerate it. Just reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve and then add the seared pork chops.
