Juicy Garlic Butter Pork Chops: A Weeknight Dinner Hero

There’s nothing quite like a perfectly cooked pork chop—tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. This easy pan-seared version with a rich garlic butter sauce is a weeknight hero, delivering restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.

Why This Recipe Works

• Perfect sear every time: A hot skillet locks in juices for pork chops that stay moist inside.

• Simple but flavorful: Garlic, butter, and fresh herbs elevate the dish without complicated steps.

• Fast and foolproof: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.

• Versatile sides: Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a crisp salad.

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet (cast iron or stainless steel works best)

• Tongs

• Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)

• Small bowl (for mixing garlic butter)

• Paper towels (for patting chops dry)

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)

• 1 tsp kosher salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)

• ½ cup chicken broth (or water)

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels—this helps them sear instead of steam. In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Rub the seasoning evenly over both sides of each chop. Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes while you prep the garlic butter. This brief rest helps them cook more evenly.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

In the same small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, and thyme. Mash them together with a fork until fully blended. Set aside—this will be added later for maximum flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and add the ingredients separately to the pan, but mixing them first ensures even distribution.

Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the pork chops (don’t overcrowd—cook in batches if needed). Sear undisturbed for 3–4 minutes per side, until a deep golden crust forms. If the chops stick, they’re not ready to flip—wait another 30 seconds before trying again.

Step 4: Baste with Garlic Butter

Reduce heat to medium and add the garlic butter mixture to the pan. As it melts, tilt the skillet slightly and spoon the bubbling butter over the chops repeatedly for 1–2 minutes. This infuses them with rich flavor while keeping them juicy. If the butter starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly.

Step 5: Deglaze and Rest

Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits (they’re packed with flavor!). Let the chops simmer in the sauce for another 1–2 minutes, then transfer them to a plate. Tent loosely with foil and let rest for 5 minutes—this ensures the juices redistribute. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips and Tricks

• Avoid overcooking: Pork chops are best at 145°F (slightly pink inside). Use a meat thermometer to check.

• Thicker chops? Sear as directed, then finish in a 375°F oven for 5–7 minutes.

• Make ahead: Season chops up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate for deeper flavor.

• Substitutions: Swap thyme for rosemary, or use ghee instead of butter for a nuttier taste.

• Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet with a splash of broth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, but reduce cook time by 1–2 minutes per side—they dry out faster than bone-in.

Why did my pork chops turn out tough?
Overcooking is the usual culprit. Pull them at 145°F and let them rest—they’ll continue cooking slightly off the heat.

Can I make this without butter?
Absolutely! Use all olive oil, or try avocado oil for high-heat searing. The garlic and herbs will still add great flavor.

Summary

These pan-seared pork chops are juicy, flavorful, and ready in 30 minutes. A golden crust, garlic butter baste, and simple pan sauce make them a surefire hit. Serve with your favorite sides for a meal that feels special without the fuss.

Recipe Card

Juicy Pan-Seared Pork Chops with Garlic Butter
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick)

• 1 tsp kosher salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)

• ½ cup chicken broth

• 1 tbsp chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. Pat chops dry, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Rest 10 minutes.

2. Mix butter, garlic, and thyme in a bowl.

3. Sear chops in hot oil 3–4 minutes per side.

4. Reduce heat, add garlic butter, and baste 1–2 minutes.

5. Deglaze with broth, simmer 1–2 minutes, then rest 5 minutes before serving.