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
- Bring chops to room temperature by setting them out for 15–20 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides of the pork or lamb chops generously with salt and pepper.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, adding the olive oil to prevent burning.
- Add the chops to the hot skillet and sear for 3½ to 4 minutes per side, until deeply golden and a meat thermometer reads 140°F in the center.
- Transfer the chops to a platter or cutting board and let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes. The carryover heat will bring the internal temperature to a safe 145°F.
- Serve warm, spooning some of that buttery pan sauce over the top if desired.
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