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Quick 20-Minute Pan-Seared Pork Chops Recipe Easy Dinner with Green Beans

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A simple, fast, and delicious pan-seared pork chops recipe served with sautéed green beans, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick, roughly 6 oz or 170 g each)
  • 12 ounces (340 g) fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Trim the green beans by snapping or cutting off the tough ends. Rinse under cold water and set aside.
  3. Heat a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Wait until it shimmers but does not smoke.
  4. Add the pork chops to the hot skillet without overcrowding. Sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Flip the pork chops and add 1 tablespoon butter. Cook another 3-4 minutes, basting with melted butter. Pork is done when internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  6. Transfer pork chops to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Let rest for 5 minutes.
  7. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Toss in green beans and sauté, stirring often, for 4-5 minutes until bright green with slight char.
  8. Season green beans with salt and pepper, then finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
  9. Arrange pork chops and green beans on plates, garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

Pat pork chops dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear. Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain high heat and a golden crust. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Rest pork chops for 5 minutes after cooking to lock in juices. Sauté green beans until tender-crisp and finish with lemon juice for brightness. For dairy-free, replace butter with coconut oil or extra olive oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork chops, pan-seared pork chops, quick dinner, green beans, easy pork recipe, weeknight meal