These Lemon Butter Pork Chops are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor! Seared to perfection and smothered in a rich, velvety lemon butter sauce, this dish is quick, easy, and perfect for a family dinner. The zesty lemon, garlic, and buttery goodness make every bite irresistible. Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal!

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

1. Season the Pork Chops: Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Sear the Pork Chops: Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 145°F). Remove from skillet and cover with foil to keep warm.
3. Sauté the Garlic: Lower heat to medium, add the remaining 2 tbsp butter, and let it melt. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan for extra flavor. Stir in lemon juice and zest, letting the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes to slightly reduce.
5. Combine & Simmer: Return the pork chops to the skillet along with any juices. Spoon the lemon butter sauce over the chops and let them cook for another 1-2 minutes to soak up the flavors. Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
6. Serve & Enjoy: Drizzle the pork chops with the remaining sauce and serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or sautéed vegetables!

Nutrients (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 3 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Sodium: 420 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it a great choice for busy evenings.
• Minimal ingredients – Uses simple pantry staples like garlic, butter, and lemon for maximum flavor.
• Juicy and tender – The searing technique locks in moisture, ensuring the pork chops stay succulent.
• Versatile pairing options – Complements a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables.

The Secret to Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops

One of the biggest challenges when cooking pork chops is achieving the perfect level of doneness without drying them out. Here are a few tips to ensure your pork chops turn out tender and flavorful every time:

• Choose the right cut: Boneless pork chops about 1-inch thick work best for this recipe. They cook quickly while remaining juicy. If you prefer bone-in chops, just adjust the cooking time slightly.
• Pat the pork dry before seasoning: Removing excess moisture helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes a beautiful golden-brown crust when seared.
• Use high heat for searing: Searing locks in juices and develops a delicious caramelized crust. Cooking on medium-high heat for a few minutes per side ensures optimal texture and flavor.
• Don’t overcook: The safe internal temperature for pork chops is 145°F (63°C). Overcooking can make them dry and tough, so using a meat thermometer is recommended.

The Magic of Lemon Butter Sauce

The star of this recipe is the velvety lemon butter sauce, which enhances the natural flavors of the pork chops. The sauce is a simple yet elegant combination of butter, garlic, lemon juice, and broth, creating a rich, tangy, and savory taste.

• Butter adds a creamy, luxurious texture and helps balance the acidity of the lemon.
• Garlic infuses the sauce with a deep, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with pork.
• Lemon juice and zest provide brightness and a slight tang that cuts through the richness of the butter.
• Chicken broth enhances the depth of flavor while keeping the sauce light and flavorful.

The result is a sauce that’s silky, slightly tangy, and utterly irresistible. Drizzling it over the pork chops not only adds flavor but also keeps them moist and juicy.

Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with Lemon Butter Pork Chops

This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes, making it easy to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are a few great options:

• Mashed potatoes – The creamy texture of mashed potatoes perfectly complements the zesty lemon butter sauce.
• Steamed rice – A simple bowl of white or brown rice soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• Roasted or sautéed vegetables – Try asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a fresh and healthy side.
• Garlic butter pasta – Lightly coated pasta serves as a great base for the flavorful pork chops.

Tips for Enhancing Flavor and Texture

• Let the pork chops rest before serving – Allowing them to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps retain juices and enhances tenderness.
• Deglaze the pan properly – When making the sauce, scrape up all the browned bits from the pan for extra depth of flavor.
• Add a hint of spice – If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the sauce.
• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh lemon juice and zest make a big difference compared to bottled lemon juice.

A Healthier Yet Indulgent Meal Option

This dish strikes a great balance between indulgence and health. Pork chops are naturally high in protein and relatively lean, while the lemon butter sauce adds richness without being overly heavy. If you want a lighter version, you can reduce the butter slightly or use low-sodium broth to control the salt content.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Lemon Butter Pork Chops are more than just a simple dinner option—they’re a comforting, flavorful, and versatile dish that suits any occasion. The combination of perfectly seared pork with a luscious lemon butter sauce creates a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or looking for a quick yet impressive meal, this recipe delivers on all fronts. The balance of zesty lemon, creamy butter, and aromatic garlic makes every bite irresistible, ensuring this dish becomes a staple in your recipe collection.

Conclusion

Lemon Butter Pork Chops are the ultimate easy yet elegant meal that anyone can make. With a crisp, golden sear and a rich, flavorful sauce, they are a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. Whether served with mashed potatoes, rice, or veggies, this dish is guaranteed to please.