These Easy Savory Lemon Butter Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor! The mix of lemon and butter makes a tasty sauce that you’ll love drizzling over the meat.
Cooking these is a breeze, and your kitchen will smell amazing! I like to pair them with mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious sauce—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I love using bone-in pork chops for their flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops or loin chops work just as well, but keep an eye on the cooking time, as they cook faster.
Olive Oil: It’s great for browning the pork chops. If you’re out of olive oil, feel free to use canola or vegetable oil. They have a higher smoke point but won’t alter the flavor much.
Unsalted Butter: This adds richness to the sauce. If you’re avoiding dairy, look for a plant-based butter or use olive oil instead for a lighter version.
Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemons give the best flavor! In a pinch, bottled lemon juice can be used, but the zest won’t be there. Try to stick with fresh if you can for that vibrant taste.
Parsley: I like fresh parsley for its bright flavor. If you don’t have fresh on hand, dried parsley can be substituted, but use less since it’s more potent.
How Do I Make Sure the Pork Chops are Juicy?
Getting juicy pork chops is all about the cooking method! Start by patting the chops dry to help with browning. Season generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Heat your skillet well before adding the olive oil. This ensures a good sear.
- Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes. Don’t rush this; letting them sit helps develop that golden-brown crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 145°F (63°C). This ensures they’re cooked but still juicy.
Let them rest after cooking for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chops moist!
Easy Savory Lemon Butter Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: lemon slices for garnish
- Side suggestion: roasted or steamed asparagus
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a meal ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step helps them brown nicely. Then, season both sides with salt and black pepper to taste. You want them nicely flavored!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a golden-brown crust and a final internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove them from the skillet and let them rest on a plate.
3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the unsalted butter to the hot skillet. Once the butter has melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for around 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Add Lemon Juice and Zest:
Next, pour in the fresh lemon juice and sprinkle in the lemon zest. Use a spatula to scrape up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Coat the Pork Chops:
Now, return the pork chops to the skillet. Spoon the lemon butter sauce over them, making sure to coat them well. Warm the chops in the sauce for another minute to heat them through.
6. Final Touches:
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the pork chops and add lemon slices for garnish if you like. It makes everything look beautiful and adds a pop of color!
7. Serve:
Serve your tasty lemon butter pork chops immediately alongside your choice of asparagus or your favorite side dish, drizzling extra lemon butter sauce over the top if you want. Enjoy your meal!
Enjoy your juicy, savory lemon butter pork chops!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used for this recipe, but they may cook a bit faster than bone-in chops. Be sure to check for doneness and remove them from the skillet once they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I Make This Recipe Without Butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. It will slightly alter the flavor, but still create a delicious sauce!
What Should I Do With Any Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or lemon juice to keep them moist.
Can I Use Other Herbs Instead of Parsley?
Yes! Feel free to swap out the parsley for other fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or oregano. Each will add a unique flavor profile to the dish!
