Discover how to make the best Lemon Pepper Pork Chops with this easy, step-by-step guide. This classic homemade dish is popular for its incredible flavor and simplicity which makes it a perfect choice for any occasion! Craving something special for dinner? Our Lemon Pepper Pork Chops are sure to impress with their tangy zest and juicy tenderness.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Pepper Pork Chops Recipe
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- Best way to make Lemon Pepper Pork Chops at home: This recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser with a zesty twist!
- Easy Lemon Pepper Pork Chops for beginners: Simple ingredients and quick prep make this the perfect recipe to enhance your culinary skills.
- Only 35 minutes to make!: Fast prep time but packed with delicious flavors that taste like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen.
- Perfect for meal prep: These pork chops are great for preparing ahead and saving for lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Ingredients for Lemon Pepper Pork Chops
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
Essential ingredients for Lemon Pepper Pork Chops include bone-in pork chops and fresh lemon zest. For a gluten-free option, feel free to incorporate almond flour instead of regular flour if you wish to coat the chops.
How to Make Lemon Pepper Pork Chops – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepping the Pork Chops
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Searing the Pork Chops
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Step 3: Baking the Chops
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the lemon zest evenly over the pork chops.
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Tip: For extra crispy texture, add a couple of minutes to the baking time!
Best Lemon Pepper Pork Chops Recipe – Easy and Flavorful Pro Tips for Making the Best Lemon Pepper Pork Chops
- Can I make Lemon Pepper Pork Chops ahead of time? Yes, these can be prepped and seared in advance. Store them in the fridge and bake just before serving.
- What is the secret to the best Lemon Pepper Pork Chops? Ensure the pork chops are seared properly to lock in all the juices and flavor, while the lemon zest adds a refreshing kick.
Best Ways to Serve Lemon Pepper Pork Chops
The best way to serve Lemon Pepper Pork Chops is with some side dishes that complement their savory citrus flavor. Here are a few ideas: - Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Try our Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe for a creamy and delicious side.
- Steamed Vegetables: Brighten up your plate with seasonal steamed vegetables.
- Crispy Air Fryer French Fries: Pair with our Air Fryer French Fries Recipe for a crispy, low-oil side dish.
Nutritional Information for Lemon Pepper Pork Chops
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Protein: 26g
- Carbs: 2g
- Fat: 21g
Optimize for health-conscious readers by using fresh lemon zest rather than store-bought lemon seasoning, reducing sodium intake.
Storage & Leftovers
- How long does Lemon Pepper Pork Chops last in the fridge? Pork chops can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Freezing guidelines: Wrap them individually in aluminum foil and store in freezer bags for up to 2 months.
- Reheating method: Reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until heated through.
FAQs for Lemon Pepper Pork Chops
1. Can I freeze Lemon Pepper Pork Chops?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap each chop securely with foil and place in sealed plastic bags for freezing.
2. What can I use instead of olive oil in Lemon Pepper Pork Chops?
Try vegetable oil or avocado oil as a substitute.
3. Can I use boneless pork chops in this recipe?
Absolutely, boneless pork chops are also an excellent choice but might require less cooking time.
4. How to store leftover Lemon Pepper Pork Chops?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for about three days.Related Recipes for Lemon Pepper Pork Chops
Lemon Pepper Pork Chops
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 4 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Lemon Pepper Pork Chops are a perfect savory dish that delivers flavor and satisfaction.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the lemon zest evenly over the pork chops.
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.
- Letting the pork chops rest allows juices to redistribute for a juicier bite.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking and Searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Lemon Pepper, Pork Chops, Dinner Recipe, Savory Delights