This Easy Pork Piccata is a tasty treat! Tender pork chops cooked in a bright lemon butter sauce make every bite feel special. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up!
I love how the lemon really shines and adds zing to the dish. Serve it over pasta or rice, and you’ve got a meal that feels fancy without the fuss. Enjoy your cooking! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend using boneless pork chops for this dish. They cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, thinly sliced turkey cutlets can work too!
Capers: These tiny, tangy buds add a punch of flavor. If you can’t find capers, chopped green olives can be a tasty substitute, giving you a similar briny taste.
Chicken Broth: I like using low-sodium chicken broth, so I can control the saltiness. Vegetable broth is a great alternative for a lighter touch or for those avoiding meat.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is essential for that bright flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh is always best. You can also try lime juice for a twist!
How Do You Get Perfectly Brown Pork Chops?
Getting a nice brown on pork chops is key for flavor. Here’s how you can achieve that:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding oil and butter. This helps sear the meat.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the chops.
- Let the pork chops cook undisturbed for a few minutes per side. This allows a crust to form.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F for perfect doneness.
Easy Pork Piccata with Lemon Butter Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops, pounded thin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
For the Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup capers, drained
For Garnishing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Cooked pasta or angel hair noodles, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pork piccata will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops on both sides with salt and pepper. Then, dredge each chop in flour, making sure to shake off any extra flour so you don’t have a thick coating.
2. Searing the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and allow it to melt. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the pork chops in it. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through. When done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Making the Lemon Butter Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the fresh lemon juice, chicken broth, and capers. Use a wooden spoon to stir and scrape together all the tasty browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This will add so much flavor to your sauce! Let this simmer for about 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Finishing Touches:
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter into the sauce until it melts and becomes smooth. Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning some sauce over them. Cook for another minute until the pork chops are warm.
5. Serving the Dish:
To serve, sprinkle the pork piccata with chopped parsley and garnish each plate with lemon slices. Serve it over cooked pasta or angel hair noodles, drizzling with extra lemon butter sauce for added flavor!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy pork piccata with lemon butter sauce! Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Pork Piccata with Lemon Butter Sauce
Can I Use Chicken Instead of Pork Chops?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken breast or thighs. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as chicken may need a few extra minutes to cook through compared to pork.
What Can I Substitute for Capers?
If you don’t have capers on hand, you can use chopped green olives for a similar briny flavor. Just be sure to rinse them to reduce the saltiness if needed.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of broth can help revive the sauce’s consistency.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. You can dredge the pork chops in the gluten-free option before cooking as usual.
