Growing up, our family had a tradition. Every Sunday, we’d all come together for a hearty dinner, laughing and sharing stories from our week. This creamy lemon thyme pork chop dish is reminiscent of one particular Sunday. Grandma Elsie, with her signature apron and gleaming smile, whipped it up as a surprise. It was a hit! That zesty, creamy taste became an instant family favorite, and now, it’s an honor to share Grandma Elsie’s secret with you.
Creamy Lemon Thyme Pork Chops: The Ultimate Dinner Delight!
Say goodbye to boring chicken dinners… this recipe is a game-changer!
Pork chops are a timeless classic, but this recipe takes it up a notch! Creamy, tangy, and rich with a delightful hint of lemon and thyme – these pork chops are the ultimate treat for your taste buds. Gone are the days of dry, bland meat. Welcome to the world of juicy, flavorful, and absolutely scrumptious pork chops. Let’s dive right into this delectable dish!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops (rib or sirloin)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon creole seasoning
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prep the Chops: Begin by seasoning the pork chops with creole seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and freshly ground pepper. Ensure that both sides are well coated.
- Dredge Away: Place the flour in a shallow dish. Dredge each pork chop in the flour, making sure they’re thoroughly coated. Shake off the excess flour.
- Get Sizzling: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted and slightly foamy, add the pork chops. Cook until golden brown on both sides, roughly 4-5 minutes per side. Once done, transfer to a plate and keep them warm.
- Saucy Goodness: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Sauté until the garlic is aromatic. Pour in the dry white wine and lemon juice, scraping the skillet to lift the browned bits (hello, flavor!). Allow the mixture to simmer and reduce by half.
- Creamy Finish: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, lemon zest, and thyme. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine and Serve: Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy lemon-thyme sauce over the top. Let them simmer in the sauce for a couple of minutes to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
- Garnish and Feast: Plate the pork chops, drizzle with a bit more sauce if desired, and garnish with green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips:
- Wine Choice: If you don’t have dry white wine on hand, chicken broth makes an excellent substitute, although the wine does add a deeper richness to the sauce.
- Thickness Matters: If your pork chops are particularly thick, you might need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through.
- Serving Suggestions: These creamy lemon thyme pork chops pair beautifully with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a light salad.
The Secrets Behind Perfect Recipe:
- Pork Temperature: For the juiciest pork, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F, followed by a 3-minute rest.
- Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon zest and thyme make a world of difference. They elevate the flavor profile tremendously.
- Cream Consistency: Simmer the cream on low heat. It ensures the sauce thickens just right without curdling.
Serving Suggestions:
- Starchy Delight: Garlic mashed potatoes or herbed rice complement the creamy sauce wonderfully.
- Veggies: Steamed asparagus or green beans tossed in garlic butter.
- Beverage: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or sparkling lemonade for a non-alcoholic pairing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Absolutely, just adjust your cooking time as bone-in might take a tad longer. - Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes, half and half can be used, but it might be less creamy. - What if I don’t have creole seasoning?
A mix of paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne can work as a substitute.
If you’re tired of the same old dinner routines and looking for something that promises a burst of flavors and textures, this creamy lemon thyme pork chop recipe is your answer. It’s the perfect combination of tangy, creamy, and savory. A sure shot way to impress your family and guests. Happy cooking!
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Recipe adapted from Creole Contessa
