Golden-brown, seared pork chops drenched in a rich, garlicky butter sauce—this dish is a true comfort food favorite. The combination of aromatic herbs and the buttery glaze enhances the natural juiciness of the pork, making every bite incredibly flavorful.
Not only is this recipe quick and easy, but it also pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, these Garlic Butter Pork Chops are guaranteed to be a hit at the table.
Full Recipe:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add garlic, thyme, and rosemary, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the garlic butter sauce over them. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4
Garlic Butter Pork Chops – A Flavor-Packed Weeknight Dinner
If you’re looking for a dinner recipe that’s quick, easy, and full of rich flavors, Garlic Butter Pork Chops are the perfect choice. With a crispy golden-brown crust and a savory, garlicky butter sauce, these pork chops are juicy, tender, and incredibly satisfying. The best part? They come together in just about 20 minutes, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or a last-minute meal when you need something both delicious and effortless.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These pork chops are not just your average pan-seared dish. The key to their irresistible taste lies in the garlic butter sauce, which infuses each bite with deep, rich flavors. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your meal rotation:
- Quick & Easy: This meal is ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a fast and flavorful weeknight dinner.
- Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples like garlic, butter, and herbs, you can create an incredible meal without much effort.
- Juicy & Tender: Searing the pork chops locks in their natural juices, keeping them moist and flavorful.
- Versatile: You can pair them with almost anything—from mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables or a light salad.
- Gluten-Free & Low-Carb: This dish is naturally gluten-free and perfect for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet.
Choosing the Best Pork Chops for This Recipe
The type of pork chops you use can make a big difference in the final result. Here are a few things to keep in mind when selecting your chops:
- Bone-In vs. Boneless: Bone-in pork chops tend to have more flavor and stay juicier, but boneless chops cook faster and are easier to eat. Both work well in this recipe.
- Thickness Matters: Aim for pork chops that are about 1-inch thick. Thinner chops can overcook quickly, while thicker ones take longer to reach the perfect doneness.
- Marbling: Look for pork chops with some marbling (fat running through the meat). This helps keep them moist and enhances their flavor.
The Secret to Perfectly Juicy Pork Chops
Pork chops can sometimes turn out dry and tough if not cooked properly, but following a few key techniques will ensure they remain tender and juicy:
- Pat Them Dry: Before seasoning, use a paper towel to pat the pork chops dry. This helps them sear properly and develop that beautiful crust.
- Don’t Overcook: Pork is best when cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check doneness and avoid drying out the meat.
- Let Them Rest: After cooking, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them moist.
What Makes the Garlic Butter Sauce So Good?
The garlic butter sauce is the real star of this recipe. It’s rich, savory, and packed with flavor. Here’s why it works so well:
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a deep, aromatic element that enhances the overall taste of the pork chops.
- Butter: Using high-quality unsalted butter gives the sauce a creamy richness that balances the savory flavors.
- Herbs & Spices: A mix of thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper adds warmth and depth to the dish.
- Chicken Broth: A splash of broth helps to deglaze the pan, picking up all the flavorful bits left behind from searing the pork chops.
Side Dishes to Serve with Garlic Butter Pork Chops
One of the best things about this dish is how versatile it is when it comes to side dishes. Here are some great options to round out your meal:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce for a comforting meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus roasted with a touch of olive oil complement the richness of the pork chops.
- Steamed Rice or Quinoa: A simple grain side dish balances out the flavors and provides extra texture.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
- Garlic Bread: If you love garlic, why not add more? A slice of crusty garlic bread is perfect for sopping up extra sauce.
Variations and Customizations
Want to switch things up? Here are some ways you can customize the recipe to fit your preferences:
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms in the garlic butter sauce for extra depth and flavor.
- Use a Different Protein: Try this recipe with chicken breast, salmon, or even tofu for a delicious alternative.
- Lemon Butter Twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for a bright, citrusy finish.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers, don’t worry—this dish tastes just as good the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm the pork chops in a skillet over low heat with a little extra butter or broth to keep them moist. You can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overheat them, as they may dry out.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked pork chops for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Pork Chops are the ultimate combination of simplicity and flavor. They come together in minutes, require minimal ingredients, and deliver restaurant-quality results right at home. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
With a perfectly seared crust and a buttery, garlicky sauce, these pork chops are a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again. Pair them with your favorite side dishes, experiment with different seasonings, and enjoy a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
If you’re looking for a go-to pork chop recipe that’s quick, delicious, and foolproof, this is the one!