Crockpot pork chops are tender, juicy, and easy to make! Just pop them in the slow cooker with some flavorful seasonings and a bit of broth.
It’s like cooking in your magic pot while you relax! I love how they turn out so soft, you can practically cut them with a fork. Perfect with rice or veggies!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops provide the best flavor and moisture. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless pork chops work just fine. Just adjust the cooking time since they are usually thinner.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use vegetable broth or even water with a splash of soy sauce for flavor.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika are key to a great taste. If you want a twist, try adding some chili powder for a bit of heat or Italian herbs for a different flavor profile.
Fresh Thyme: Fresh is great for garnishing, but dried thyme works too. Just use about a third of what you’d use for fresh, since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Get Perfectly Tender Pork Chops?
The secret to tender pork chops in the crockpot is low and slow cooking. Start by searing them briefly in a skillet to lock in juices and flavor, then transfer them directly to the crockpot.
- Season both sides of your pork chops well.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Place them in the crockpot and add broth, butter, and herbs.
- Cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours for soft, juicy pork.
Checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer is key. Once they hit 145°F, they’re perfectly safe to eat and should be tender!
How to Make Crockpot Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (plus extra fresh sprigs for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for preparation and seasoning, plus 6-7 hours to cook on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH in the crockpot. So it’s perfect for a day when you want a delicious meal without fussing around in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning your pork chops generously on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. This will give them a great flavor base!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they have a lovely golden-brown crust. This step not only adds flavor but also helps keep the juices inside!
3. Place Chops in the Crockpot:
After searing, put the pork chops into the crockpot in a single layer. It’s okay if they overlap a little, but try to keep them as flat as possible for even cooking.
4. Add the Broth:
Pour the chicken broth over the pork chops. This will keep everything moist and flavorful as they cook!
5. Add Butter and Thyme:
Dot the top of the pork chops with butter and sprinkle some fresh thyme sprigs on top. This will add even more flavor to the dish.
6. Cook Your Pork Chops:
Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. You want to make sure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety and best taste!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re cooked, carefully remove the pork chops from the crockpot. If you’d like to make a gravy, you can thicken the cooking liquid in a small pan with a slurry of cornstarch and water. Otherwise, serve the pork chops hot, spooning some of the cooking juices over the top, and garnish with fresh thyme if desired.
Enjoy your flavorful, tender crockpot pork chops! They’re bound to be a hit at your dinner table!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, but keep in mind that they may cook faster due to their thinner cut. Check them for doneness around the 2-3 hour mark on HIGH or about 4-5 hours on LOW.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can substitute it with regular paprika, or a mix of sweet paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a slight kick. It’ll still taste delicious!
Can I Prep This Recipe the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can season the pork chops and place them in the crockpot with the broth and butter, then refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just plug in your crockpot and let it cook throughout the day!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent dryness.
