These Easy Lemon Butter Pork Chops are juicy and full of bright flavor! Cooked in a simple lemon butter sauce, they are a quick dinner that tastes amazing.
I love how the zesty lemon makes the pork chops pop! Serve them with some veggies or rice, and you’ve got a yummy meal that feels fancy without all the fuss!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops work best for this dish, but bone-in pork chops can also be used for added flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using chicken breasts or thighs instead!
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred here, so you can control the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, substitute with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Lemon: Fresh lemons make the sauce zesty and bright. If lemons aren’t available, a splash of bottled lemon juice will do in a pinch, but fresh is always best for flavor!
Thyme: Dried thyme is an easy choice, but fresh thyme can give you a fresher taste. If you don’t have thyme, fresh rosemary or oregano can also be delicious substitutes.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops requires a careful approach to keep them tender and juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
- First, make sure your pork chops are at room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Pat them dry with paper towels. This allows for better browning.
- Use medium-high heat for searing—this creates a nice crust!
- Don’t flip them too soon; let them sear for 4-5 minutes to develop a golden color.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. They should reach 145°F (63°C) for juicy perfection.
These tips will ensure your pork chops are delicious every time!
Easy Lemon Butter Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless 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
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes for cooking, making a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy dinner that’s perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear! Then, sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper generously on both sides of the chops. This will enhance the flavor wonderfully.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F/63°C). Once done, remove the 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 same skillet. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Add the Chicken Broth and Lemon:
Pour the chicken broth into the pan, scraping the bottom to loosen all those delicious browned bits. Stir in the lemon slices, fresh lemon juice, and thyme, letting the mixture come to a simmer for about 3-4 minutes so it can reduce slightly.
5. Finish the Sauce:
Now, stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until it melts and the sauce becomes glossy and smooth. This will give your sauce a rich flavor.
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the seared pork chops back to the skillet, and spoon the lemon butter sauce over them. Let everything heat together for another 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve immediately with your favorite sides!
Enjoy your tender and flavorful Lemon Butter Pork Chops!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will add even more flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as they might take a little longer to cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you want to make this dish dairy-free, you can substitute the unsalted butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. The flavor will still be delicious!
Can I Use Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried Thyme?
Yes, fresh thyme is a wonderful substitute and will enhance the flavor even more! Use about one tablespoon of fresh thyme in place of the one teaspoon of dried thyme.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep them moist if needed.
