Zesty Citrus Pan-Fried Pork Chops

Name: Zesty Citrus Pan-Fried Pork Chops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lime; 1 tablespoon honey; 1/4 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley for garnish

🕒 Prep: 10 min

🔥 Cook: 15 min

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

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If you’re looking for a bright and flavorful twist on your usual pork chops, this Zesty Citrus Pan-Fried Pork Chops recipe is the answer. Featuring a delightful blend of lemon and lime, it brings a refreshing zing that pairs perfectly with the savory richness of the pork.

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Ingredients for Zesty Citrus Pan-Fried Pork Chops

Pork chops are the star of the show here. Opt for bone-in chops for a juicier result, as the bone helps retain moisture. Olive oil is used for frying, adding a light richness to the meat. A simple seasoning of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder enhances the natural flavors. The lemon zest and lime juice bring a bright citrusy note, while honey adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tang. Chicken broth helps create a flavorful sauce, and butter adds a silky finish. Garlic and fresh thyme leaves provide aromatic depth, and a sprinkle of parsley at the end adds a pop of color and freshness.

Tips & Tricks

Ensure your pork chops are at room temperature before cooking; it helps them cook evenly.
Don’t rush the searing process; a good sear locks in juices and adds flavor.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer before adding the chops back.

Serving Suggestions

These citrus pork chops pair wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. For a more hearty meal, serve them alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a quinoa salad. The fresh, zesty flavors also complement a crisp white wine or a light, fruity rosé.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless pork chops?: Yes, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster than bone-in chops.
What if I don’t have fresh thyme?: Dried thyme can be used in a pinch. Start with half the amount since dried herbs are more potent.
How do I know when the pork chops are done?: They should reach an internal temperature of 145°F. They’ll still be slightly pink inside, which is perfectly safe.

Zesty Citrus Pan-Fried Pork Chops Recipe Walkthrough

Start by patting your pork chops dry with a paper towel. This ensures a good sear. Season them generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. These are your base flavors, and they set the stage for everything else.

Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully lay your pork chops in the pan. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. They should have a nice crust. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Stir it around until fragrant—this only takes about 30 seconds. It’s crucial not to burn it.

Add in the lemon zest, lime juice, honey, and chicken broth. Stir these together, scraping up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. This is where a lot of the flavor lives.

Now, drop in the butter and let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly. This creates a lovely, glossy sauce.

Return the pork chops to the skillet, spoon the sauce over them, and sprinkle in the fresh thyme leaves. Let them cook together for another 2 minutes. This melds all the flavors beautifully.

Finally, remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish. Serve immediately while hot.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
The citrus flavors offer a fresh and modern take on classic pork chops.
Uses simple ingredients you likely have in your kitchen.
Delivers a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients

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

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lime

1 tablespoon honey

1/4 cup chicken broth

1 tablespoon butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

1 tablespoon chopped parsley for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Pat pork chops dry with a paper towel and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork chops and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add garlic, stirring until fragrant.

4. Stir in lemon zest, lime juice, honey, and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

5. Add the butter and allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

6. Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat. Add fresh thyme leaves.