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Juicy Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Pork Chops

Two thick, juicy pork chops seared golden brown and topped with a glistening garlic herb butter sauce.

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Cook tender, juicy pork chops quickly using a simple pan-sear method with a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for a fast weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops completely dry with paper towels. Mix salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder together. Season both sides of the pork chops evenly with the spice mix.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron works well) over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Carefully place the seasoned pork chops in the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side until a deep golden-brown crust forms.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter and minced garlic to the pan. Add the thyme sprigs.
  5. As the butter melts, tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to continuously baste the melted garlic butter over the top of the pork chops for 1 to 2 minutes.
  6. Remove the pork chops from the pan immediately and place them on a clean plate. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  7. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce from the pan over the rested chops and garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • For thicker chops (over 1.5 inches), you may need to finish them in a 375°F oven for 5-8 minutes after searing to reach the correct internal temperature.
  • Use a meat thermometer; pork is safe when it reaches 145°F internally.
  • Do not skip resting the meat; this keeps the juices inside the chop.

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