These Easy Lemon Butter Pork Chops are juicy and bursting with flavor! The tangy lemon and rich butter create a delicious sauce that brings everything together.
If you’re like me, you’ll find yourself licking the plate clean! I love making these on a weeknight—they’re quick, tasty, and always a hit with family. 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and juiciness. If you can’t find them, boneless chops work too. Just adjust cooking time since boneless cooks faster!
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for controlling salt levels in your dish. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based butter or olive oil for sautéing.
Lemon: Fresh lemons give the best flavor, but pre-packaged lemon juice can work in a pinch. Just use less, as it’s more concentrated!
Chicken Broth: This adds depth. You can replace it with vegetable broth or even water if you need a lighter option. White wine is nice too for more flavor!
How Do You Get Juicy Pork Chops Every Time?
Getting perfectly cooked pork chops can be tricky if you’re not careful! Here are my tips for juicy and tender results:
- Start by letting your pork chops reach room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chops. Searing locks in flavor and moisture.
- Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy!
- Let the chops rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps juices redistribute for a tender bite.
These simple steps will help you nail those juicy pork chops every time! Enjoy cooking!
Easy 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 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Optional: roasted asparagus or other vegetables, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10-15 minutes to cook, making a total of approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. Quick and easy for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps to get a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper for flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through (aim for an internal temperature of 145°F/63°C). Remove the chops from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the skillet. Once it melts, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This will add a lovely flavor to your sauce!
4. Add Lemon and Broth:
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and chicken broth (or white wine). Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and blend flavors.
5. Coat the Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, spoon the delicious sauce over them, and cook for an additional minute to reheat and really soak up the lemon butter flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pork chops and the sauce. Garnish with lemon slices to add a fresh touch. Serve immediately, preferably with some roasted asparagus or your favorite veggies on the side.
Enjoy your tender, flavorful lemon butter pork chops with a bright, buttery sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds!
FAQ for Easy Lemon Butter Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used, but be mindful of the cooking time, as they usually cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, you can use vegetable broth for a lighter option, or white wine for a more robust flavor. In a pinch, water can also work, but it may slightly lessen the sauce’s depth.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep the sauce from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and sear the pork chops ahead of time. Just store them separately (chops covered and sauce in an airtight container) and reheat when ready to serve!
