Sarah Jessica Parker’s 3-Ingredient Pork (or Lamb) Chop Copycat Dinner

When it comes to effortless elegance, Sarah Jessica Parker knows what she’s doing—and her go-to weeknight dinner is proof. With just three ingredients—butter, olive oil, and pork or lamb chops—SJP has inspired a simple yet incredibly flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy nights. If you’re craving something quick, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying, this minimalist dish is your new best friend.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Only three ingredients! It doesn’t get easier than this.
• Fast and foolproof: From skillet to table in under 20 minutes.
• Deliciously juicy: A buttery sear locks in all the flavor.
• Flexible protein: Choose pork or lamb, depending on your cravings.
• SJP-approved: Inspired by Sarah Jessica Parker’s personal go-to meal.

What Is the Dish?

This 3-ingredient dinner, made famous by actress Sarah Jessica Parker, is a minimalist’s dream. Just salt, pepper, chops, and a mix of butter and olive oil—no fancy tools or obscure spices required. Searing the meat in Kerrygold salted butter (with a touch of olive oil to prevent burning) creates a golden-brown crust while keeping the inside tender and flavorful. It’s a timeless, back-to-basics dish that proves less really is more.

Cooking Tips

• Use bone-in, center-cut chops for the juiciest results.
• Let the meat rest before cooking—about 20 minutes out of the fridge ensures even cooking.
• Kerrygold butter adds rich flavor, but any high-quality salted butter works.
• Don’t skip the olive oil: It prevents butter from burning at high heat.
• Always use a meat thermometer to avoid guesswork and ensure safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Boneless Chops?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time—boneless chops cook faster and may dry out if overdone. Aim for about 3 minutes per side.

Is This Really All You Need?

Surprisingly, yes! But feel free to serve it with a salad, roasted veggies, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

What Kind of Skillet Should I Use?

A cast iron skillet works best for achieving a good sear, but stainless steel is also a solid choice.

Can I Make This With Chicken?

Absolutely. Use boneless thighs or drumsticks and adjust cook time accordingly. Make sure the internal temp hits 165°F.

How Do I Keep the Butter from Burning?

Add just a drizzle of olive oil before the butter. It raises the smoke point and keeps everything golden—not blackened.

What Sides Pair Well with This?

Try sautéed greens, a crusty piece of bread to mop up the juices, or buttery mashed potatoes. Even a simple arugula salad works beautifully.

How to Store

Store any leftover chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat with a dab of butter to bring back the moisture.

How to Freeze

To freeze, let the chops cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently in a skillet or oven.

Ingredients

• 4 (¾-inch thick) bone-in center-cut pork chops or lamb chops
• 2 tablespoons Kerrygold salted butter (or other high-quality salted butter)
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make SJP’s 3-Ingredient Pork (or Lamb) Chops