If you are looking for a fast, flavorful weeknight dinner that comes together in a single pan, this Lemon Herb Pork Chop Skillet is exactly what you need. By cutting boneless pork chops into bite-sized pieces, they cook incredibly fast while locking in all those delicious juices.
In this recipe, I pair tender pork with juicy cherry tomatoes, garlic, and a splash of fresh lemon juice. It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients can completely transform a dish, creating a vibrant, restaurant-quality eating experience right at home.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Meal
- Fast & Fresh: Ready from prep to table in just 25 minutes.
- Bright Flavors: High-heat sautéed pork gets a gorgeous, glossy finish from fresh lemon juice, garlic, and savory herbs.
- Minimal Cleanup: A true skillet meal means fewer dishes to wash after dinner.
How To Prepare This Lemon Herb Pork Chop Skillet
Step 1: Sear the Pork
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Turn the heat up to high and add the bite-sized pork pieces. Season immediately with the salt and black pepper.
- Sauté the pork, stirring occasionally, until it is golden brown on all sides (about 7 minutes).
Step 2: Build the Flavor
- Keeping the heat on high, toss in the sliced garlic, halved cherry tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano.
- Sauté for 5 minutes, mixing occasionally so the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.
Step 3: The Citrus Finish
- Pour in the fresh lemon juice.
- Sauté for a final 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the citrus combine with the melted garlic butter into a bright, glossy pan sauce.
- Remove your Lemon Herb Pork Chop Skillet from the heat and serve hot over rice, pasta, or alongside your favorite green veggies!
How to Serve Your Lemon Herb Pork Chop Skillet
This dish makes a fantastic main entrée. To turn it into a complete, balanced meal, try pairing it with:
- Your Favorite Grains: Serve it over a bed of fluffy brown rice, quinoa, or garlic-herb couscous to soak up every drop of the lemon-butter sauce.
- Green Veggies: A side of sweet green peas, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad balances the rich flavors perfectly.
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Invent Your Recipe: Customization Tips
The best part of cooking is making a dish your own! Here are a few ways you can adapt this recipe to suit your taste:
- Tomato Alternatives: If you don’t have cherry tomatoes on hand, chopped plum (Roma) tomatoes or a well-drained can of diced tomatoes work great. Not a fan of tomatoes? Try roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes instead.
- Switch the Protein: This exact flavor profile works beautifully with chicken breast, sirloin beef tips, shrimp, or scallops. (Note: Cooking times will vary depending on the meat you use, so keep an eye on your skillet so you don’t overcook seafood or poultry!)
- Add Some Heat & Extra Veggies: Want a spicy kick? Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder with the herbs. You can also sauté sliced bell peppers and onions alongside the pork for extra crunch and color. Use the ingredients you have on hand and really enjoy!
The Recipe
Lemon Herb Pork Chop Skillet
This easy Lemon Herb Pork Chop Skillet features tender, bite-sized pork sautéed in a rich garlic-butter sauce with blistered cherry tomatoes. Ready in just 25 minutes!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
- 4 tbsp. butter
- 2 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- 1 tsp. salt
- ½ tsp. ground black pepper
- ¼ tsp. dried oregano
- ¼ tsp. dried basil
- Juice of 1 fresh lemon
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Pork
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Turn the heat up to high and add the bite-sized pork pieces. Season immediately with the salt and black pepper.
- Sauté the pork, stirring occasionally, until it is golden brown on all sides (about 7 minutes).
Step 2: Build the Flavor
- Keeping the heat on high, toss in the sliced garlic, halved cherry tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano.
- Sauté for 5 minutes, mixing occasionally so the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.
Step 3: The Citrus Finish
- Pour in the fresh lemon juice.
- Sauté for a final 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the citrus combine with the melted garlic butter into a bright, glossy pan sauce.
- Remove your Lemon Herb Pork Chop Skillet from the heat and serve hot over rice, pasta, or alongside your favorite green veggies!
Invent Your Recipe
The best part of cooking is making a dish your own! Here are a few ways you can adapt this recipe based on what you have in your fridge:
- Tomato Swaps: If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, chopped plum (Roma) tomatoes or a well-drained can of diced tomatoes work great. Not a fan of tomatoes? Try roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes instead.
- Switch the Protein: This exact flavor profile works beautifully with chicken breast, sirloin beef tips, shrimp, or scallops. (Note: Adjust cooking times accordingly so you don’t overcook seafood or poultry!)
- Add Some Heat & Veggies: Want a spicy kick? Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder with the herbs. You can also sauté sliced bell peppers and onions alongside the pork for extra crunch and nutrition.
Nutrition
Calories: 400kcal
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
