These lemon butter pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! The mix of zesty lemon and rich butter makes every bite a delight. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
I love how easy these are to make – just sear them in a pan and baste with buttery goodness. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a dish that sounds fancy but is super simple? 🍋🐷
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are juicy and flavorful, but boneless ones work too. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using pork loin chops, just be careful not to overcook them.
Butter: Unsalted butter is typical for better control of saltiness. If you’re looking to cut calories, consider using ghee or olive oil for sautéing instead, but it won’t have the same rich flavor.
Garlic: Fresh is best for its intense flavor, but jarred minced garlic can be a convenient substitute. Just adjust the amount since jarred is often stronger.
Lemon: Fresh lemons provide the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch. Just remember that fresh adds brightness that is hard to match!
Thyme: I recommend fresh thyme for its bold flavor, but dried thyme is fine too; remember to use less—about a third of the amount of fresh.
How Do I Get the Pork Chops Perfectly Cooked?
The key to juicy pork chops is cooking them to the right temperature – about 145°F (63°C). Here’s how you ensure they’re perfectly cooked:
- Start with room temperature pork chops for even cooking. Take them out about 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don’t crowd the pan! Give them space to sear well, which enhances flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, insert it in the thickest part of the chop.
- Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking; this allows juices to redistribute for a more tender chop.
How to Make Savory Lemon Butter Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 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, divided
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, so you’ll have a fantastic dinner ready in around 25 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better. Generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet and let them sear without moving them, about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn a nice golden-brown. Once done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Once it melts, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Next, stir in the lemon zest and chicken broth, scraping the brown bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and thyme leaves, and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. This will combine all the delicious flavors together.
5. Cook the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning some sauce over them. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.
6. Finish the Sauce:
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter into the sauce to make it rich and glossy. This final touch adds amazing flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the pork chops to a serving plate, spoon the luscious lemon butter sauce over the top, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy your delectable meal!
FAQs About Savory Lemon Butter Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! 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 Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water can be good substitutes. Just remember that using broth adds extra flavor to the dish!
Is it Possible to Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently before serving with freshly cooked pork chops.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet or in the microwave, adding a bit of sauce or broth to keep them moist.
