Season the chops: Pat the pork dry. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
This helps the crust form and adds flavor.
Heat the pan: Set a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter. When the butter foams, the pan is ready.
Sear the pork: Add the pork chops in a single layer.
Sear 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove to a plate; they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.
Soften the aromatics: Lower heat to medium. Add the shallot and cook 1–2 minutes, stirring.
Add the garlic and cook 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Deglaze: Pour in the wine or chicken broth. Scrape up browned bits with a wooden spoon. Simmer 1–2 minutes to reduce by about half.
Build the sauce: Whisk in Dijon, then pour in the heavy cream.
Add thyme and a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle simmer; don’t let it boil hard.
Finish the pork: Return the chops and any juices to the pan. Simmer 3–6 minutes, turning once, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Adjust heat to avoid over-reducing the sauce.
Balance and rest: Stir in lemon juice if using. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Let the chops rest off heat for 3 minutes so the juices settle.
Serve: Spoon the Dijon cream sauce over the chops.
Garnish with parsley. Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or buttered noodles.