Juicy Pan-Seared Pork Chops with Herbed Butter

Today we're diving into the realm of irresistible flavors with our juicy pan-seared pork chops. This recipe is a game-changer, bringing together the rich, tender goodness of pork with the aromatic essence of herbs and zesty lemon. Get ready to savor every bite of these succulent pork chops!

When it comes to cooking pork chops, achieving a perfect sear while keeping the meat juicy is key. That's why we start by patting the pork chops dry and seasoning them generously with salt and black pepper. This simple step ensures a flavorful crust and helps lock in the pork's natural juices.

Once seasoned, it's time to bring the skillet to life. Heat some olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers, indicating it's ready for action. Carefully place the pork chops in the skillet and let them sizzle away for a few minutes on each side. You'll witness a beautiful browning, creating a delightful crust that adds texture and depth to the dish.

But we're not stopping there—enter the star of our show: herbed butter. In the same skillet, we'll melt some unsalted butter and infuse it with minced garlic, fragrant thyme, rosemary, and a burst of citrus from lemon zest. The kitchen will soon be filled with an irresistible aroma, teasing your taste buds with anticipation.

Once the herbed butter is ready, we'll reintroduce our seared pork chops to the skillet, allowing them to luxuriate in the flavorful bath. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let the pork chops continue to cook, all the while absorbing the herb-infused butter, resulting in a dish that sings with every bite.

Resting the pork chops is a crucial step. Allowing them to relax under a foil tent for a few minutes ensures the juices redistribute, resulting in tender, moist meat. We don't want all that deliciousness to escape before it reaches your plate!

Now comes the moment you've been waiting for—the grand finale. Place these succulent pan-seared pork chops on your favorite platter, spoon over some of that luscious herbed butter, and get ready to experience an explosion of flavors. The juicy, tender pork combined with the aromatic herbs and tangy lemon zest will make your taste buds dance with delight.

Ingredients:

4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions:

Preparing the Pork Chops:
- Start by patting the pork chops dry with a paper towel. This will help them sear evenly.
- Season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and black pepper.
Searing the Pork Chops:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until nicely browned.
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Cover with foil to keep warm.
Making the Herbed Butter:
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and lemon zest to the melted butter.
- Stir the ingredients together and cook for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Finishing the Pork Chops:
- Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the herbed butter.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Spoon the herbed butter over the pork chops as they cook to infuse them with flavor.
Resting and Serving:
- Once cooked, transfer the pork chops to a clean plate and tent them with foil.
- Allow the pork chops to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps retain the juiciness and tenderness.
Garnishing and Enjoying:
- Serve the pork chops with a drizzle of the remaining herbed butter from the skillet.
- You can garnish with additional fresh herbs and lemon wedges, if desired.
- Pair the juicy pan-seared pork chops with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad.

Conclusion: With this recipe for juicy pan-seared pork chops with herbed butter, you have all the tools to create a memorable dining experience right in your own kitchen. The simplicity of the ingredients and the harmony of flavors will leave you longing for more. So, fire up that skillet, grab some pork chops, and get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this irresistible dish!