These brown sugar pork chops are a sweet and savory delight! The sugary glaze caramelizes perfectly while the pork stays juicy and tender.
Honestly, who knew pork chops could taste this good? I like to serve them with some mashed potatoes, and trust me, the plate will be empty in no time! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend using bone-in pork chops for better flavor and moisture. If you prefer boneless or thin chops, reduce cooking time to avoid drying them out.
Brown Sugar: This sweetener gives the pork a lovely caramelized crust. If you need a substitute, you can use honey or maple syrup, but adjust the amount since they’re sweeter.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds great depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can work. Garlic and onion powders are great for flavor but feel free to use fresh minced garlic or onions if you have them on hand.
Oil: Olive oil gives a nice flavor, but vegetable oil is just fine. You can even use butter for an extra rich taste, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Perfectly Seared?
Getting that perfect caramelization on pork chops is all about technique. Here’s how I achieve it:
- Start with a hot skillet to create a nice sear. Let the oil shimmer before adding the chops.
- Don’t crowd the pan. If needed, cook in two batches to maintain temperature.
- Once placed in the pan, let them cook for 3-4 minutes without moving them. This helps build a crust.
- Flip and repeat! The key is patience; don’t rush it for the best texture.
Letting the chops rest after cooking helps keep them juicy. Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Brown Sugar Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and an additional 10 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and tasty meal within 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This blend will give the pork chops a wonderful sweet and savory flavor.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, pat each pork chop dry to remove excess moisture. This helps them sear better. Rub the spice mixture all over both sides of the pork chops, making sure to press it in a bit so it sticks well.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil (or vegetable oil) over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot, but not smoking. You want it shimmering to ensure a good sear.
4. Sear the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in the skillet carefully, making sure not to overcrowd. Let them cook without moving for about 3-4 minutes until they’re nicely caramelized on the bottom.
5. Flip and Cook Through:
Turn the pork chops over with tongs and cook for another 3-4 minutes until browned and they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Juicy and perfectly cooked!
6. Rest the Chops:
Remove the pork chops from the pan and set them on a plate to rest while you make the glaze.
7. Deglaze the Pan:
Carefully add the chicken broth (or water) to the hot skillet. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom. This will add flavor to your glaze!
8. Reduce the Sauce:
Let the broth simmer and reduce for about 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly. The glaze should coat the back of a spoon nicely.
9. Pour the Glaze:
Take the glaze off the heat and pour it over the pork chops on your plate, making sure to drizzle it evenly over each chop.
10. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for added flavor and a beautiful presentation. Serve hot and enjoy this delightful dish!
These juicy, sweet-savory brown sugar pork chops are perfect with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-in?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Just be sure to reduce the cooking time slightly, about 2-3 minutes per side, to avoid drying them out.
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’d like a kick of heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the spice mixture. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste preference.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to maintain their tenderness.
What Can I Serve with Brown Sugar Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of roasted vegetables. A fresh salad is also a great option for a lighter side!