Greek Lemon Oregano Pork Chops
Juicy pork chops kissed with zesty lemon and fragrant oregano, served with a squeeze of fresh citrus.
Total: 30 minPrep: 10 minCook: 20 min4 servingsDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.8 (235+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Optional: Lemon wedges for serving
Steps
- 1 Preheat oven to 400°F.
- 2 Pat pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- 3 In a small bowl, mix olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, and lemon zest. Rub this mixture over the pork chops.
- 4 Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- 5 Transfer skillet to the oven and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- 6 Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
- 7 Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh oregano before serving.
Equipment
- Oven-safe skillet
- Meat thermometer
- Tongs
Variations
- Substitute chicken breasts for pork chops for a lighter option.
- Add a squeeze of orange juice to the marinade for a citrus twist.
Substitutions
- If fresh oregano isn't available, use an additional teaspoon of dried oregano.
- Substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a tangier flavor.
Pairings
- Serve with tzatziki sauce and warm pita bread.
- A side of orzo pasta with feta cheese complements this dish nicely.
Nutrition
Calories:
350 kcal
Fat:
22g fat
Carbs:
3g carbohydrates
Protein:
30g protein
Fiber:
1g fiber
Sugar:
1g sugar
Sodium:
400mg sodium
Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the pork chops in the olive oil mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Check the thickness of your pork chops to adjust cooking time accordingly.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven to preserve texture.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh Greek salad and roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
- Pair with a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc.
FAQ
Can I use boneless pork chops instead?
Yes, adjust the cooking time accordingly, usually reducing by 2-3 minutes.
How do I know if the pork chops are cooked properly?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F.