Lemon Garlic Pork Chops are juicy, flavorful, and super easy to make! With zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, these chops are sure to brighten your dinner plate.
Honestly, the smell while cooking is enough to make anyone hungry! 🍋 I love serving them with a side of veggies to keep things fresh and colorful on the table. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops work best for flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, boneless chops can be used; just adjust cooking time as they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a nice depth to the flavor and helps with searing. If you’re looking for a different taste, avocado oil or vegetable oil are good alternatives.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for the best taste. In a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but use less—around ¼ teaspoon for each clove.
Lemon: The fresh zest and juice brighten the dish. If lemons are out of season, try using limes or even a splash of white vinegar for acidity.
Thyme: Dried thyme is convenient, but fresh herbs add more flavor. If thyme isn’t available, try rosemary or oregano.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Seared Pork Chops?
Properly searing pork chops is key to getting a nice flavor and texture. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Start with pork chops at room temperature. Pat them dry beforehand; moisture will inhibit browning.
- Use a hot skillet. This helps create a good sear quickly, locking in juices.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. This lets each chop sear instead of steam.
- Cook on medium-high heat, flipping only once for that golden crust.
- Use a meat thermometer. Check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to avoid overcooking.
Taking the time to properly sear pays off in flavor and texture, making your Lemon Garlic Pork Chops truly shine!
How to Make Lemon Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For the Flavoring:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- For Garnishing:
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a quick meal option that’s ready in around 30 minutes total! Perfect for busy evenings.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and half of the lemon zest you’ve set aside for extra flavor.
2. Sear the Chops:
In a large cast-iron skillet or any heavy skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be at least 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Allow it to melt. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant (be careful not to let it brown!). Stir in the lemon juice, remaining lemon zest, and thyme. Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes to blend all the flavors.
4. Combine and Heat Through:
Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, and make sure to spoon the lemon garlic sauce over them. Let them cook for another minute to absorb all the delicious flavors.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your delectable pork chops with fresh lemon slices and sprigs of parsley or thyme if you like. Serve warm and don’t forget to spoon some extra sauce over the chops for added flavor.
Enjoy your delicious, golden brown Lemon Garlic Pork Chops! They’re sure to impress!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used, but be aware that they may cook faster. Check their internal temperature to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C).
How Can I Ensure the Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
To keep the pork chops juicy, avoid overcooking them. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Additionally, letting them rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute.
What Can I Serve with Lemon Garlic Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with vegetables like roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli, or you can serve them over rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious lemon garlic sauce!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying them out, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
