These garlic butter pork chops are juicy and full of flavor. Cooking them in a skillet makes for easy clean-up and a quick meal that everyone will love!
Honestly, the buttery garlic sauce makes my mouth water just thinking about it. It’s so easy to whip up and perfect for busy nights. I like to serve mine with simple mashed potatoes on the side!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend using bone-in chops for extra flavor, but boneless can work too. If you don’t have pork chops, chicken breasts or thighs can be a great substitute. Just cook them the same way!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but in a pinch, you can use garlic powder. Just remember, 1 clove equals about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary add a lovely aroma. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried versions are fine! Just use about a third of the amount since they are more concentrated in flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal to control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you might use olive oil entirely instead of butter, though it won’t have the same rich taste.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Pork Chops in a Skillet?
The skillet method ensures juicy pork chops with a nice crust. Start with a hot skillet to get that golden-brown color. Here are some tips:
- Make sure the pork chops are dry before seasoning; this helps them sear better.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet! If it’s too crowded, they’ll steam instead of sear.
- Keep an eye on the temperature. Overcooking makes them dry, so aim for 145°F internal temperature.
- Letting them rest after cooking is crucial! It allows the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
With these tips, your pork chops will be flavorful and perfectly cooked every time!
Garlic Butter Pork Chops in a Skillet
Ingredients you’ll need:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a bit of time seasoning the pork chops and waiting for them to finish cooking, but overall, it’s a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This is important because it helps get a nice sear! Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika if you’d like to add some extra flavor.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot (but not smoking), it’s time to add your pork chops.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Let them sear on one side for about 3-4 minutes until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust. Then, flip them over and sear the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
After both sides are nicely browned, reduce the heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter, minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet. Let them cook for a minute, allowing the butter to melt and the garlic to become fragrant.
5. Baste the Chops:
Using a spoon, baste the pork chops with the melted garlic butter as they continue to cook for an additional 3-5 minutes. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This step infuses the chops with flavor while keeping them moist!
6. Rest the Pork Chops:
Once done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy! While resting, spoon some of that delicious remaining garlic butter sauce over the chops.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your pork chops with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a refreshing touch, if you like. Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Pork Chops!
These pork chops are sure to be a hit at your dinner table! Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Instead of Pork Chops?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts or thighs can be substituted for pork chops in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as chicken may take a bit longer to cook through. Look for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for chicken.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No problem! You can use dried herbs instead of fresh. Just remember to use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. For instance, if the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme, use about 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat to keep them juicy, or you can microwave them briefly.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
For the best flavor and texture, it’s best to cook the pork chops fresh. However, you can prep the garlic butter sauce and season the pork chops the night before. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook!
