These easy lemon butter pork chops are a real treat! Juicy chops are cooked to perfection and topped with a zesty lemon butter sauce that adds a bright flavor.
It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights! I love how quick it is to whip up, and the whole family enjoys it. Pair it with some veggies, and you’ve got a yummy meal! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend using thick pork chops, about 1-inch thick, for juiciness. Bone-in chops add extra flavor, but boneless ones work just as well. If you can’t find pork chops, chicken breasts can be a good alternative.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These spices add depth to the flavor. If you don’t have them, fresh minced garlic and finely chopped onion work well too. You can use 1-2 cloves of garlic and half a small onion for a fresh version.
Dried Thyme or Italian Seasoning: These herbs complement the pork beautifully. If you don’t have them, you can substitute with dried rosemary or even a mix of your favorite herbs like oregano and basil.
Butter: Unsalted butter is the best choice for this recipe. If you want a healthier option, you can try ghee or coconut oil, but the flavor will be a bit different.
What’s the Key to Juicy Pork Chops?
Getting juicy pork chops can be tricky! Here’s how to avoid dryness:
- Start by patting the pork chops dry. This helps them brown better.
- Season generously! Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; they enhance the meat’s flavor.
- Before cooking, let them rest out of the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps them cook evenly.
- Sear in a hot skillet—this locks in the juices. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Check internal temperature! Aim for 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.
By following these tips, you’ll serve up the juiciest pork chops that everyone will love!
Easy Savory Lemon Butter Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and seasoning the pork chops, then 20 minutes cooking them on the stove. It’s an easy, quick meal perfect for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
First, pat the pork chops dry using paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme (or Italian seasoning). Make sure the spices are evenly distributed for great flavor!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear them for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C). Once done, remove the pork chops from the pan and set them aside, leaving the tasty drippings behind.
3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
Now it’s time to make that delicious sauce! Reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant but be careful not to let it burn. Then, pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Let this mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and develop flavor.
4. Bring it All Together:
Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon some of the lemon butter sauce over them. Let them warm in the sauce for another 1-2 minutes.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish the pork chops with fresh chopped parsley and lemon slices. Serve the pork chops hot, spooning extra lemon butter sauce over the top. These are fantastic paired with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful lemon butter pork chops! They are sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re short on time, you can also place them in a sealed plastic bag and immerse in cold water for quick thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth for a similar flavor, or even water in a pinch. To enhance the taste, add a bit of salt or a splash of soy sauce if using water.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a little broth or water to prevent drying out, or microwave until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or asparagus to the skillet when making the sauce. Just add them a few minutes before returning the pork chops to the pan so they cook and soak up the delicious lemon butter flavor!
