These Lemon Butter Pork Chops are the perfect combination of juicy, tender meat and a velvety, zesty sauce. The bright citrus flavor from the lemon enhances the richness of the butter, while garlic and paprika add an irresistible depth of taste. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to make yet feels gourmet!
This dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful but quick. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad to complete the meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, these pork chops will steal the show with their rich, tangy, and buttery goodness.
Full Recipe:
-
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tbsp)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Directions:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F). Remove and set aside, covering with foil to keep warm.
- Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tbsp butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Stir in lemon juice and zest, letting the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce over them. Let them cook in the sauce for 1-2 minutes.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or sautéed vegetables.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4
Lemon Butter Pork Chops: A Flavorful and Easy One-Pan Meal
When it comes to easy and delicious weeknight dinners, Lemon Butter Pork Chops are a must-try. This dish is packed with bold flavors, combining the richness of butter with the brightness of fresh lemon juice and zest. The result is a well-balanced, restaurant-quality meal that you can prepare in under 30 minutes.
Pork chops are often underrated, but when cooked correctly, they become incredibly juicy, tender, and full of flavor. The key to perfect pork chops lies in the seasoning, the cooking technique, and the sauce. This recipe delivers on all three, making it one of the best ways to enjoy pork chops at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons why Lemon Butter Pork Chops have become a favorite for home cooks everywhere. Here’s why you’ll love this dish:
1. Quick and Easy to Prepare
This dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something homemade but don’t have much time to spare. With just a few simple ingredients and one pan, you can have a gourmet meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
2. Packed with Flavor
The combination of garlic, paprika, lemon juice, and butter creates an explosion of flavors. The lemon adds a zesty freshness, the butter brings richness, and the garlic enhances the overall taste.
3. One-Pan Wonder
No one likes doing a pile of dishes after cooking. Luckily, this recipe only requires one skillet, which means minimal cleanup. The same pan is used to sear the pork chops and create the lemon butter sauce, ensuring that every bite is infused with delicious flavor.
4. Perfectly Juicy Pork Chops
Pork chops have a reputation for being dry and tough when overcooked. However, this recipe ensures that the pork stays tender and juicy by searing them properly and finishing them in the lemon butter sauce.
5. Pairs Well with Many Sides
Lemon Butter Pork Chops are incredibly versatile and go well with a variety of side dishes. Whether you prefer mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad, this dish complements them all.
Tips for Cooking the Perfect Pork Chops
Achieving the perfect pork chops requires a few important techniques. Follow these tips to ensure the best results:
1. Choose the Right Cut
Boneless pork chops are great for quick cooking, but if you prefer extra juiciness, opt for bone-in pork chops. The bone helps retain moisture, resulting in more flavorful meat.
2. Pat the Pork Chops Dry
Before seasoning, always pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them develop a golden brown crust when seared, instead of steaming in the pan.
3. Season Generously
Don’t be afraid to season both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This enhances the natural flavors and ensures a well seasoned bite every time.
4. Get the Pan Hot Before Searing
A hot skillet is essential for a perfect sear. Heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat before adding the pork chops. This allows them to develop a flavorful crust while locking in moisture.
5. Don’t Overcook
Overcooking is the biggest mistake when making pork chops. The ideal internal temperature for juicy and tender pork chops is 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, and remove the chops from the pan once they reach this temperature.
6. Let Them Rest
After cooking, let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
The Magic of Lemon Butter Sauce
One of the best parts of this recipe is the luscious lemon butter sauce. This sauce is simple yet incredibly flavorful, elevating the dish to a whole new level.
Ingredients in the Sauce:
- Butter – Adds richness and a silky texture.
- Garlic – Brings an aromatic, savory depth to the sauce.
- Chicken broth – Enhances the flavor and adds a savory base.
- Lemon juice and zest – Provides a fresh, tangy balance to the butter’s richness.
How It Complements the Pork Chops
The buttery, garlicky sauce coats each pork chop, making every bite juicy and flavorful. The zesty lemon juice cuts through the richness of the butter, creating a balanced and refreshing contrast.
If you love extra sauce, consider doubling the ingredients so you can drizzle it over your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes or rice.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Lemon Butter Pork Chops
Pairing this dish with the right side enhances the overall experience. Here are some delicious options:
1. Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the lemon butter sauce beautifully, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
2. Roasted Vegetables
Oven roasted carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add a slight caramelization that pairs wonderfully with the zesty sauce.
3. Steamed Rice or Quinoa
A light and fluffy grain like steamed jasmine rice or quinoa balances the richness of the pork chops.
4. Garlic Butter Pasta
A simple pasta tossed in garlic butter and parmesan makes a fantastic pairing.
5. Fresh Garden Salad
A crisp, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the pork’s bold flavors.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers, you’ll want to store and reheat them properly to maintain their flavor and texture.
Storing:
- Allow the pork chops to cool before transferring them to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze, wrap each chop individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay good for 2-3 months.
Reheating:
- Skillet: Reheat over medium-low heat with a bit of butter or broth until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use 50% power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
- Oven: Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Conclusion
Lemon Butter Pork Chops are simple, delicious, and packed with flavor. With just one pan and a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that feels both elegant and comforting. The zesty lemon butter sauce enhances the natural juiciness of the pork, making each bite absolutely irresistible.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, these pork chops are sure to impress. Serve them with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to drizzle that extra lemon butter sauce for an extra burst of flavor!
Give this recipe a try, and let us know how it turns out. Enjoy your perfectly seared, juicy Lemon Butter Pork Chops!