These Easy Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor! With a buttery garlic sauce, they make a fantastic dinner that everyone will love.
Cooking these pork chops is a breeze! I love how the garlic makes my kitchen smell amazing. Serve them with some veggies, and you have a quick meal that feels special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for flavor and moisture. If you have boneless chops, those will work too, but watch the cooking time as they may cook faster!
Butter: Unsalted butter keeps control over the salt levels. If you prefer a healthier option, you can use olive oil instead of all butter, but it won’t have the same rich flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a nice punch. If you’re out of fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder (about 1/4 teaspoon per clove) or garlic paste.
Thyme: Fresh thyme is lovely, but dried thyme is a good substitute if fresh isn’t available. Use about half the amount if you’re using dried herbs.
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Sear?
Searing pork chops properly is key for that nice crust and flavor. Start with dry, well-seasoned pork chops. This helps achieve a good browning. Here’s how to get it right:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot. A drop of water should sizzle upon contact.
- Add the oil and then the pork chops. Do not overcrowd the pan; give them space to sear!
- Let them sit without moving for 3-4 minutes. Only flip once they’re golden brown.
This technique locks in juice and builds flavor, making those chops irresistible!
Easy Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook. In just 20 minutes, you can have a tasty meal ready to enjoy!
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 golden crust when cooked. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it really adds to the flavor!
2. Heat Your Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. You want it hot enough to sear the pork chops but not so hot that it smokes. A good indicator is when a drop of water sizzles when it hits the pan.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Let them sear without moving them for about 3-4 minutes, or until a lovely golden crust forms. Resist the urge to peek or flip them too soon!
4. Add Garlic and Butter:
Carefully flip the pork chops to the other side. Now, add the butter, minced garlic, and thyme to the skillet. As the butter melts, tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to continuously baste the pork chops with the melted garlic butter. Do this for another 3-4 minutes or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps them nice and tender. You can optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a colorful touch before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful, tender garlic butter pork chops! They’re perfect served alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or veggies for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just as well. Just keep an eye on the cooking time; they may cook a bit faster than bone-in chops—around 2-3 minutes per side should be sufficient.
What Can I Substitute for Garlic?
If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can skip it entirely or use garlic powder. About 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder will provide some garlic flavor without the intensity of fresh garlic. Alternatively, you could infuse the butter with herbs like rosemary or parsley instead.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or butter to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe With Other Proteins?
Definitely! This garlic butter method works beautifully with chicken breasts or steaks. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the thickness of the meat to ensure it’s cooked through.
