Main Dishes for Dinner: Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops

Looking for main dishes for dinner that are quick, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress? These Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops are juicy, tender, and bursting with buttery, garlicky goodness—all ready in just 20 minutes! Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting guests, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and restaurant-quality flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: From start to finish, it takes less than 20 minutes.
Packed with flavor: A combination of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs elevates the taste.
Perfect for any occasion: Works for a weeknight meal or a special dinner.
Versatile: Pairs beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a crisp salad.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops

To create this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:

4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (1-inch thick, about 6–8 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves (minced or crushed)
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky touch)
1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (or 2 teaspoons fresh herbs)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a hint of brightness)
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe is simple and doesn’t require fancy equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan – for even searing.
Tongs – to easily flip the pork chops.
Meat thermometer – to check for perfect doneness.
Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the garlic butter.
Cutting board and sharp knife – for prepping the ingredients.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1: Prepare the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry using paper towels. This ensures a perfect golden-brown sear.
Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Let the pork chops sit for 5 minutes at room temperature while you prepare the skillet.

2: Heat the Skillet

Place a cast-iron or heavy-bottom skillet over medium-high heat.
Add olive oil and let it heat until it shimmers. A hot skillet ensures a crisp, flavorful crust on the pork chops.

3: Sear the Pork Chops

Carefully place the pork chops in the skillet (away from you to avoid splatters).
Cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes per side until a golden crust forms.
Use tongs to flip the pork chops once. Avoid flipping multiple times to keep them juicy.

4: Add Garlic Butter and Herbs

Lower the heat to medium. Add the butter, minced garlic, and thyme (or rosemary) to the pan.
As the butter melts, tilt the skillet slightly and use a spoon to baste the pork chops with the garlic butter. This step adds incredible richness.

5: Check Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
If the pork chops are thick, you can cover the skillet with a lid and cook for an extra 2–3 minutes.

6: Rest and Serve

Transfer the pork chops to a plate and let them rest for 3–5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Pork Chops

Choose the right pork chops: Bone-in chops tend to stay juicier, while boneless ones cook faster.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook in batches if needed to ensure a proper sear.
Use a cast-iron skillet: It holds heat well, resulting in a beautiful golden crust.
Baste frequently: Spoon the garlic butter over the pork chops as they cook for extra flavor.
Pair with the right sides: Mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, sautéed mushrooms, or a fresh garden salad complement this dish perfectly.
Add extra flavor twists: Try a splash of white wine in the skillet for a light pan sauce, or sprinkle parmesan cheese over the finished chops for an indulgent touch.

Serving Ideas – Complete Main Dishes for Dinner

This recipe works wonderfully as the centerpiece for your dinner table. Here are some pairing ideas to create complete main dishes for dinner:

Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Classic and comforting.
Serve with a Mediterranean quinoa salad – For a lighter, balanced option.
Pair with roasted vegetables – Such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers.
Add a garlic bread side – Perfect for soaking up the buttery sauce.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 380–420 kcal
Protein: 34 g
Fat: 28 g (with butter and olive oil)
Carbohydrates: 2 g
Sodium: 450 mg

(Values are approximate and may vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients.)

Why Garlic Butter Pork Chops Are a Dinner Game-Changer

When you think of main dishes for dinner, pork chops often get overlooked. But when cooked correctly, they’re just as satisfying as steak or chicken. The garlic butter not only adds depth and richness but also keeps the meat moist and flavorful. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients, you can create a gourmet-level meal that requires minimal effort.

Make It Ahead and Store

Meal prep: Season the pork chops in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or extra butter to keep them juicy.
Freezing: Cooked pork chops can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken breasts or thighs work well with the same garlic butter searing technique.

2. What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning can be used as substitutes.

3. Do I need to brine the pork chops?
Not necessary for this recipe, but you can brine them in salt water for 30 minutes for extra tenderness.

Conclusion

If you’re tired of the same old weeknight meals, these Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops will quickly become one of your favorite main dishes for dinner. Juicy, flavorful, and ready in just 20 minutes, they prove that fast cooking doesn’t mean compromising on taste. Serve them with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a meal that feels both comforting and gourmet.