Garlic Butter Pork Chops: 7 Easy Steps

Name: Garlic Butter Pork Chops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1.5 lbs total (1-inch thick); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick); 4-5 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp dried thyme or 1 sprig fresh; 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Michelle

December 12, 2025

Garlic Butter Pork Chops are a weeknight culinary triumph, delivering an explosion of savory flavor with minimal effort. This dish transforms simple pork chops into a tender, juicy delight, bathed in an aromatic sauce of rich butter, pungent garlic, and fresh herbs. Perfect for busy evenings, it promises a gourmet experience without the fuss, making it a go-to for home cooks seeking both speed and satisfaction. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can achieve restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. It’s a versatile meal that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, ensuring a well-rounded and delightful dinner every time you prepare it.

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My journey to perfecting these Garlic Butter Pork Chops began with countless attempts to avoid the dreaded dry pork chop. Like many home cooks, I’d often overcooked them, resulting in tough, unappetizing meat. But through experimentation, I discovered the magic of a hot skillet, a quick sear, and a rich, flavorful sauce to finish. This recipe captures that essence, ensuring every bite of Garlic Butter Pork Chops is tender, succulent, and infused with incredible flavor. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when handled with a little care, can create something truly extraordinary and become a cherished family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This

These Garlic Butter Pork Chops are incredibly juicy and flavorful.
It’s a quick and easy recipe, perfect for weeknight dinners.
The rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce is utterly addictive.

What Makes Garlic Butter Pork Chops Special

The secret to exceptional Garlic Butter Pork Chops lies in balancing high-heat searing with a flavorful finishing technique. Many home cooks wonder, “How do I keep pork chops from drying out?” The answer is simple: don’t overcook them! A quick sear locks in juices, creating a beautiful crust, while a short finish in the oven or gentle simmering in the rich butter sauce ensures they cook through without losing moisture. The combination of garlic, butter, herbs, and a touch of broth creates an irresistible pan sauce that infuses the pork with deep, aromatic flavors. This method guarantees a juicy, tender chop every single time, making this dish truly special and incredibly satisfying.

Key Ingredients for Garlic Butter Pork Chops

Pork Chops: Opt for bone-in, 1-inch thick chops for best results; they tend to stay juicier.
Olive Oil: Essential for searing the pork chops and achieving that golden-brown crust.
Unsalted Butter: The base for our rich, flavorful garlic butter sauce.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is crucial for that potent, aromatic kick.
Thyme: Adds an earthy, herbaceous note that complements the pork beautifully.
Chicken Broth: Helps deglaze the pan and creates a luscious sauce.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Brightens the sauce and cuts through the richness of the butter.
Fresh Parsley: A fresh garnish that adds color and a final touch of flavor.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural taste of the pork.

How to Make Garlic Butter Pork Chops: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prep the Pork Chops:: Pat the pork chops completely dry and season generously with salt and pepper. This is a crucial step to achieve a good sear. When selecting your chops, remember to consider, “What cut of pork chop is best for pan-searing?” Thick-cut, bone-in chops generally offer the best balance of flavor and juiciness for searing.
Step 2: Sear the Chops:: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chops for 3-4 minutes per side until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce:: Reduce heat to medium-low, then add butter, minced garlic, and thyme to the skillet. Allow the butter to melt and the garlic to become fragrant, basting the chops with the melting butter.
Step 4: Deglaze and Finish:: Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice. Continue to baste the chops, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly. If your chops are very thick, or you want to ensure they reach the perfect internal temperature, a quick transfer to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 5-7 minutes can be beneficial.
Step 5: Rest and Serve:: Remove chops from heat, transfer to a cutting board, tent with foil, and let rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period is vital for juicy results. Spoon the remaining garlic butter sauce over the chops and garnish with fresh parsley.

Storing Your Garlic Butter Pork Chops

Proper storage is key to enjoying your Garlic Butter Pork Chops beyond the initial meal. Once cooked, allow the pork chops to cool completely to room temperature (this usually takes about 20-30 minutes, but no longer than 2 hours). Transfer the cooled chops and any remaining garlic butter sauce to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly, where they will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Place the cooked chops in a freezer-safe bag or container, with or without the sauce, and they will keep well for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Garlic Butter Pork Chops Variations & Substitutions

While the classic Garlic Butter Pork Chops are fantastic, there are many ways to customize the dish to your preference. For different herb profiles, try adding fresh rosemary or sage along with the thyme. A touch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat. If you’re out of chicken broth, vegetable broth or even a splash of white wine can be used to deglaze the pan. Many home cooks ponder, “How long should you cook pork chops?” While our recipe gives specific times, remember that actual cooking time can vary based on thickness and your stove, so always rely on an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.

Experiment with different finishing touches like a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Pork Chops

Garlic Butter Pork Chops are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. For a classic, comforting meal, serve them alongside creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice, allowing the delicious garlic butter sauce to soak into every bite. Roasted asparagus or green beans with a squeeze of lemon are excellent choices for a lighter, more vibrant accompaniment. Many often ask, “What can I serve with garlic butter pork chops?” A simple garden salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast, while a side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that incredible sauce. For a heartier option, consider polenta or roasted root vegetables.

The History of Garlic Butter Pork Chops

The combination of pork and butter, often infused with garlic and herbs, has roots in European culinary traditions, particularly French and Italian cuisines, where rich sauces are king. Pork chops themselves became a staple in American households in the early to mid-20th century as refrigeration made fresh meat more accessible. The specific preparation of pan-seared Garlic Butter Pork Chops, with its emphasis on creating a flavorful pan sauce, reflects a convergence of these influences. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, high-quality ingredients coming together to create a comforting and universally loved meal that has gracefully found its place on dinner tables worldwide.

These Garlic Butter Pork Chops offer a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication, proving that a delicious, restaurant-quality meal is well within reach for any home cook. The rich, savory flavors of the garlic-herb butter combined with perfectly seared, juicy pork chops create an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Don’t be shy about drenching each chop in that luscious pan sauce! We hope this recipe becomes a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire, bringing warmth and flavor to your table time and time again.

Pro Tips

Don’t Skip the Rest: Allowing the pork chops to rest after cooking is crucial for redistributing the juices, ensuring they remain tender and moist.
Monitor Garlic: Add garlic towards the end of the butter-basting step to prevent it from burning and turning bitter.

FAQs

Why did my garlic butter burn?

Garlic butter can burn quickly if the heat is too high or the garlic is added too early. To prevent this, add minced garlic towards the end of the cooking process, after the pork chops are seared, and keep the heat on medium-low. This allows the garlic to soften and release its aroma without scorching, ensuring a golden, fragrant sauce instead of a bitter, burnt one.

Do I need to brine pork chops?

While not strictly necessary for this Garlic Butter Pork Chops recipe, brining can significantly enhance the juiciness and flavor of pork chops, especially leaner cuts. A simple saltwater brine for 30 minutes to an hour can prevent them from drying out during cooking and seasons them from the inside. If you have time, it’s a worthwhile extra step for exceptionally tender results.

Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use boneless pork chops for Garlic Butter Pork Chops. Boneless chops tend to cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly to prevent them from drying out. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Keep in mind that bone-in chops often retain more moisture and flavor, but boneless cuts are convenient and cook quicker.

How do you know when pork chops are done?

The best way to tell if your pork chops are done is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chop, avoiding the bone. Pork is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. At this temperature, the center might still be slightly pink, which is perfectly safe and indicates a juicy, tender chop.

Can I reheat leftover pork chops?

Yes, you can reheat leftover Garlic Butter Pork Chops, though they are best enjoyed fresh. To retain moisture, gently reheat them in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water, covered, until just warmed through. Alternatively, microwave on a low setting in short bursts. Avoid high heat, which can make them tough and dry.