This Easy Pork Piccata is juicy and full of flavor! The lemon butter sauce adds a zesty kick that makes every bite more exciting. Plus, it’s quick to whip up!
I love how the buttery sauce pairs perfectly with the pork. It’s fancy enough for guests but simple enough for a weeknight meal. You’ll feel like a chef in no time! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops work great here! For a leaner option, use pork tenderloin medallions. If you don’t have pork, chicken breasts or turkey cutlets can be good substitutes.
Capers: These add a nice salty and tangy flavor. If you’re not a fan or can’t find them, olives or pickles can substitute them, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.
White Wine: A dry white wine enhances the sauce flavor. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, use chicken broth or a mix of lemon juice and water instead.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is key for brightness. In a pinch, bottled lemon juice will do, but fresh is always better for flavor!
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Perfectly Cooked?
The trick to perfectly cooked pork chops is all in the timing and heat. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet to get a nice golden crust. Make sure your pork chops are dry before seasoning and dredging in flour for better browning.
- Cook the chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side—don’t rush it! If they’re thick, you might need a little extra time.
- Use a meat thermometer! Pork should reach an internal temp of 145°F (63°C). Always let them rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep them juicy.
These steps will ensure your pork is tender and flavorful every time! Enjoy cooking!
Easy Pork Piccata with Lemon Butter Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 4 boneless pork chops or pork tenderloin medallions (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
For the Cooking:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
For the Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time, for a total of about 25 minutes. You’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper for great flavor.
2. Dredge the Pork:
Next, place the flour on a shallow plate. Dredge each pork chop in the flour, making sure to shake off any excess. This will give your pork a lovely crispy crust when cooked!
3. Sear the Pork:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat until hot. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove the pork from the skillet and keep it warm.
4. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium, and in the same skillet, add the white wine or chicken broth along with the fresh lemon juice. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan as these add amazing flavor to your sauce. Stir in the capers and let the sauce simmer for about 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Finish the Sauce:
Remove the skillet from the heat and whisk in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until the sauce is smooth and glossy. This will create a silky lemon butter sauce that’s bursting with flavor!
6. Combine Pork and Sauce:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the delightful sauce over the top. Let them warm through for just 1-2 minutes.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your pork piccata with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices if you’d like. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious dish!
Enjoy your delicious, tender pork piccata with bright and buttery lemon sauce! It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion.
FAQ for Easy Pork Piccata with Lemon Butter Sauce
Can I Use Chicken Instead of Pork?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless chicken breasts or thighs for the pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as chicken may cook a bit faster. Make sure to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Capers?
If you’re not a fan of capers, you can use green olives or chopped dill pickles as a substitute. While they won’t replicate the exact flavor, they’ll still add a nice salty bite to the dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the pork moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While the pork is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stove while you cook the pork, and pour it over when ready to serve.
