These Lemon Butter Pork Chops offer the perfect balance of richness and brightness with their luscious butter sauce infused with fresh lemon juice and zest. The garlic and herbs elevate the dish, making every bite fragrant and deeply satisfying.
Ideal for an easy weeknight meal or a cozy dinner with friends, this dish looks as gorgeous as it tastes. The golden seared pork chops glisten with the silky lemon butter sauce, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
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Zest of 1 lemon
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1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried)
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1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
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Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions:
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Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the pork chops and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 145°F / 63°C). Remove chops from skillet and set aside on a plate.
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Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, and rosemary. Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
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Return pork chops to the skillet, spoon the lemon butter sauce over them, and cook for another minute to reheat and coat.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Why Pork Chops?
Pork chops are a favorite protein for many home cooks because they cook relatively quickly, are widely available, and have a mild flavor that pairs well with a variety of ingredients. Bone-in pork chops, as used in this recipe, tend to be juicier and more flavorful than boneless, partly because the bone helps conduct heat and retain moisture during cooking.
The thickness of the pork chops in this recipe (about 1 inch) is perfect for searing on the stovetop, which creates a beautifully caramelized crust. This Maillard reaction—the browning that happens when meat hits a hot pan—not only adds incredible texture but also deepens the flavor significantly. Cooking the chops just to the right internal temperature (about 145°F) ensures they are tender and juicy, avoiding dryness that pork can sometimes suffer from if overcooked.
The Importance of the Lemon Butter Sauce
What truly sets this dish apart is the lemon butter sauce. It’s simple, made by melting butter in the pan and infusing it with fresh garlic, lemon juice, zest, and herbs. The pan sauce is a fantastic way to take advantage of all the flavorful browned bits left behind after cooking the pork chops. These bits are scraped up and incorporated into the sauce, adding depth and a rich, savory complexity.
Lemon juice provides acidity that brightens the dish, cutting through the butter’s richness and refreshing the palate with every bite. The zest enhances the lemon flavor without adding more liquid, keeping the sauce silky and concentrated. Fresh thyme and rosemary impart woodsy, slightly piney aromas that complement both the pork and the lemon, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
Versatility and Serving Suggestions
This dish is wonderfully versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides to suit any occasion or preference. For a light and fresh meal, serve the pork chops alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans. If you prefer something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or a buttery risotto work beautifully to soak up the luscious lemon butter sauce.
Additionally, this recipe is great for those who enjoy quick weeknight meals that don’t sacrifice flavor. It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent option when you want something impressive but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, which means you can often make this dish without a special trip to the grocery store.
Tips for Perfecting the Dish
To get the best results, it’s important to pat the pork chops dry before seasoning them. Moisture on the surface can prevent the meat from browning properly, which is crucial for developing flavor and texture. Seasoning generously with salt and pepper also helps bring out the natural flavors.
When searing the chops, ensure your pan is hot enough to create a good crust but not so hot that the butter or garlic burns. Butter has a lower smoke point than some oils, so starting with olive oil to sear the meat and then adding butter for the sauce is a smart technique. This method preserves the buttery flavor while preventing it from scorching.
Finally, don’t skip the resting step. Letting the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy bite.
Health and Nutritional Benefits
Pork chops are a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body function. This dish’s moderate use of butter keeps it indulgent yet balanced, while lemon juice adds vitamin C and antioxidants. Using fresh herbs not only boosts flavor but also adds beneficial compounds with anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting properties.
For those watching calories or fat intake, it’s easy to adjust the butter quantity or swap some for olive oil. The dish is naturally gluten-free and low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for many dietary preferences and needs.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re cooking a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a small gathering, these Lemon Butter Pork Chops fit the bill. The elegant presentation and bold flavors make it feel special enough for entertaining, yet the simplicity and speed of preparation make it accessible for everyday meals. It’s a crowd-pleaser that suits all kinds of diners—from kids to adults—and pairs well with a wide range of wines or non-alcoholic beverages.
Conclusion
Lemon Butter Pork Chops are a timeless dish that marries simplicity with sophistication. The combination of tender, juicy pork with a bright and buttery sauce is incredibly satisfying and sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. This meal strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and elegant dining, offering a gourmet experience with minimal effort.
By mastering this recipe, you gain a versatile, flavorful option that can easily be customized with your favorite herbs or sides, making it a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or guests, these pork chops deliver delicious results every time.