These easy lemon butter pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! With just a few simple ingredients like lemon, butter, and herbs, you’ll have a tasty dinner ready in no time.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that sounds fancy but takes just minutes to make? I always serve mine with some veggies on the side for a colorful plate. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops are perfect because they cook evenly and stay juicy. If you only have bone-in chops, that works too! They just might need an extra minute or two to cook through.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is ideal for the best flavor, but if you’re out, you can use garlic powder. About 1 teaspoon should do, as it is more concentrated.
Chicken Broth: If you prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a great substitute. You can also use water in a pinch, but it won’t have as much flavor.
Herbs: Thyme adds a nice earthy flavor, but you could replace it with rosemary or Italian seasoning for a different twist. Fresh herbs are great, but dried ones work just as well.
How Do You Get Perfectly Sear Your Pork Chops?
Searing your pork chops is crucial for locking in moisture and flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil. A hot skillet helps develop that nice brown crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you’re cooking more than 2 chops, do them in batches. Overcrowding lowers the heat and leads to steaming instead of searing.
- Leave the chops undisturbed for a few minutes. This allows them to develop a fantastic crust. Flip only once to keep them juicy.
Easy Savory Lemon Butter Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and another 15 minutes for cooking, totaling about 25 minutes to serve a delicious dish of lemon butter pork chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops well on both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This will give the meat a delicious flavor!
2. Sear the Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned pork chops and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. After they’re nicely browned, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Let it melt, and as it melts, stir in the minced garlic. Cook the garlic for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
4. Add Liquid Ingredients:
Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, then add the thinly sliced lemon and thyme. Make sure to scrape up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon. These bits add great flavor to your sauce!
5. Cook the Pork Chops:
Return the seared pork chops to the skillet and spoon some of that tasty sauce over them. Let everything simmer for 3-5 minutes or until the pork is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Final Touches:
Carefully remove the pork chops and lemon slices, placing them on a serving plate. Let the sauce simmer for another minute to thicken if you’d like it a bit richer.
7. Serve It Up:
Pour the delightful sauce over the pork chops and garnish with fresh parsley and additional lemon slices if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy your meal with sides like steamed veggies, mashed potatoes, or rice!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful lemon butter pork chops!
FAQ for Easy Savory Lemon Butter Pork Chops
Can I Use Bone-in Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Bone-in pork chops will work just as well; however, they might take a few extra minutes to cook through compared to boneless chops. Just be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a great substitute. You can also use water, but it won’t have as much flavor. For extra richness, consider using a bit of white wine (just let it reduce a little before adding the other liquids).
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best to serve these pork chops fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for a day. Just reheat the sauce before adding the cooked pork chops to finish the dish.
