Description
These Lemon Garlic Pork Chops are a perfect blend of zesty citrus and rich, savory flavor. Quick to prepare yet packed with depth, this dish combines tender pork with a bright garlic-lemon marinade that caramelizes beautifully as it cooks. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests, these pork chops are an easy, crowd-pleasing main course that brings gourmet flavor to your table with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for finishing)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for added heat)
Instructions
- Prep the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Rub with olive oil and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Marinate: In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops. Let sit at room temperature for 15–30 minutes.
- Sear the Chops: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the pork chops in the pan without overcrowding. Sear for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Rest: Remove the chops from the pan and let them rest on a plate, loosely covered with foil, for 5 minutes to lock in juices.
- Finish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley. Optionally, add a pat of butter while the chops rest for extra richness. Serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the pork chops in the lemon-garlic mixture for up to 1 hour in the fridge.
- Boneless pork chops can be used but may cook faster—watch closely to avoid overcooking.
- Fresh lemon and garlic are recommended for the best flavor.
- Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 410 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: lemon garlic pork chops, easy pork chop recipe, garlic pork, seared pork, weeknight dinner pork, juicy pork chops