These Lemon Garlic Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor! With zesty lemon and a hint of garlic, they’re sure to brighten up your dinner plate.
I love to whip these up on busy weeknights—they cook quickly and make my kitchen smell amazing. Pair them with some veggies, and you’ve got a tasty meal in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and juiciness. If you only have boneless, those work too. Thin cuts might need a shorter cooking time, so keep an eye on them!
Garlic: Fresh garlic really elevates this dish. If you’re out, garlic powder can stand in, but use less—about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
Lemon: Fresh lemons are key for that bright flavor. Bottled lemon juice can substitute, but the taste won’t be as fresh. You can also try lime juice for a different twist!
Butter: Unsalted butter helps control the saltiness. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use olive oil instead, or even a dairy-free butter substitute.
How Can You Get a Perfect Golden Crust on Your Pork Chops?
Searing your pork chops properly locks in juices and adds flavor. Here’s how to achieve that golden crust:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil. This will help create a nice sear.
- Pat the chops dry before seasoning. Removing moisture helps them brown evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook them in batches if needed to give them space to sear without steaming.
- Let them sit before flipping. This ensures they develop a crust—flipping them too soon might ruin it!
With these tips, you’ll have delicious, beautifully cooked Lemon Garlic Pork Chops ready to enjoy!
How to Make Lemon Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish if desired)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. Quick and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting your pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps get that delicious golden crust when cooking. Then, season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Sear the Chops:
In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a lovely golden-brown crust. Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Lemon:
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 30 seconds—just until fragrant (be careful not to burn it!). Next, toss in the lemon slices and cook for 1 minute, turning them so they caramelize nicely.
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These flavors will infuse into your dish!
5. Combine and Simmer:
Return the pork chops to the pan, spooning some of that zesty lemon-garlic sauce over the top. Lower the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the pork chops simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are cooked through (aim for an internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
6. Finish with Butter:
Once the pork is cooked, take the chops out and place them on a plate. Stir the unsalted butter into the sauce in the pan, swirling it around until it melts and gives the sauce a glossy finish.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Spoon the sauce over the pork chops, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, and garnish with extra lemon slices if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful, tender Lemon Garlic Pork Chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time; they may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness at around 4-5 minutes per side.
What Should I Serve with Lemon Garlic Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. For a lighter option, steamed asparagus or green beans make a great accompaniment!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
Yes, marinating them in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for a few hours or overnight will enhance the flavor. Just make sure to adjust the salt if you marinate them in a salty solution.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to avoid drying them out.