Make incredibly juicy and tender pork chops in under 20 minutes using this simple pan-searing method with rich garlic butter. This is the perfect easy pork chop recipe for a fast weeknight dinner.
Author:jesscarter
Prep Time:5 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:20 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Dinner
Method:Pan-Seared
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 sprigs fresh thyme (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps create a good crust.
In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Season both sides of the pork chops evenly with this mixture.
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil. When the oil shimmers, carefully place the seasoned pork chops in the hot skillet. Do not overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
Sear the pork chops for 3 to 4 minutes per side until they develop a deep golden-brown crust.
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter, minced garlic, and thyme sprigs (if using) to the skillet. The butter should melt and foam.
Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to continuously baste the melted garlic butter over the top of the pork chops for about 1 to 2 minutes. This keeps the pork juicy.
Remove the pork chops from the skillet immediately when they reach an internal temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare or 145 degrees Fahrenheit for medium.
Let the pork chops rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon any remaining garlic butter sauce from the pan over the top and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
For thicker chops (over 1.5 inches), you may need to finish them in a 400 degree Fahrenheit oven for 5-7 minutes after searing to reach the correct internal temperature without burning the outside.
If you prefer a quick pan sauce, remove the chops to rest, then add 1/4 cup of chicken broth to the hot pan and scrape up any browned bits (fond) from the bottom. Let it reduce slightly, then pour over the resting meat.
This method works well for both thick-cut boneless pork chops and bone-in chops. Adjust cooking time slightly for bone-in cuts.