These brown sugar pork chops are sweet, juicy, and super easy to make! A sprinkle of brown sugar gives them a delightful glaze that’s hard to resist.
Cooking these chops feels like magic as they caramelize in the pan. I love serving them with rice or veggies for a complete meal that everyone enjoys. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for this recipe as they add more flavor and stay juicy. If you prefer boneless or thinner cuts, adjust cooking times to ensure they don’t dry out.
Brown Sugar: This gives the chops their sweet glaze. If you’re out, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses or honey to mimic that sweetness!
Spices: Paprika adds a nice smoky flavor; don’t hesitate to swap in smoked paprika for an extra kick. Garlic and onion powders are easy to replace with fresh garlic or onions if you’d prefer a bolder taste.
Chicken Broth: If you need a substitute, white wine or vegetable broth works well, adding a different layer of flavor. Just make sure it’s something you enjoy!
Apple Cider Vinegar: This is optional but adds a lovely tang. You can swap it with lemon juice or skip it entirely if you prefer a sweeter sauce.
How Do You Get the Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
A good sear locks in flavor and creates that mouth-watering crust. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Start with pork chops at room temperature; let them sit out for 20-30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Pat the chops dry before seasoning. The drier they are, the better they’ll sear.
- Heat your skillet on medium-high heat and let it get hot before adding oil. You should see shimmering oil.
- Place the pork chops in the skillet without crowding them, so they don’t steam. Leave them undisturbed for the first few minutes.
- Flip them once they’re nicely browned and have reached that perfect caramelization (about 4-5 mins per side).
These tips help you achieve that gorgeous golden-brown crust, sealing in the juices for juicy, delicious pork chops!
Brown Sugar Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, adds a little tang)
- For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme)
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10-15 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This will create a flavorful rub for the pork chops!
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel. This helps to get that nice sear later. Rub the spice mixture evenly on both sides of each pork chop, ensuring they are well-coated.
3. Sear the Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it is shimmering. Carefully add the pork chops to the hot skillet. Sear the chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side, cooking until they develop a nice caramelized crust and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
4. Keep the Chops Warm:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Cover them loosely with foil to keep them warm while you make the sauce.
5. Make the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once it’s melted, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar if you’re using it, scraping up any lovely browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
6. Simmer the Sauce:
Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. This will concentrate the flavors and thicken it just a bit.
7. Combine and Serve:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, coating them well in the sauce for about 1-2 minutes. This allows them to soak up all that delicious flavor!
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Plate the pork chops and spoon the sauce over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy this sweet and savory dish!
This recipe yields juicy, flavorful pork chops with a deliciously sweet and savory brown sugar glaze that’s perfect for a comforting dinner. Enjoy!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops will work! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as they generally cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until they reach the target internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I Prepare the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove before combining with the cooked pork chops. This allows the flavors to meld even more!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent them from drying out.
What Can I Serve with Brown Sugar Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. A light salad or roasted veggies are also great options for a well-rounded meal!
