These brown sugar pork chops are sweet, savory, and super easy to make! With a tasty glaze of brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic, they bring out the best flavors in the meat.
Honestly, who can resist that caramelized crust? I love serving these with some rice to soak up that yummy sauce—it’s a hit at my dinner table every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops give great flavor and stay juicy during cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops or even pork loin can work, but watch cooking time; they cook quicker.
Brown Sugar: This is the star for sweetness! If you need a substitute, coconut sugar can be a good alternative. It provides a similar sweetness with a slight caramel flavor.
Spices: Paprika adds a nice color and flavor, but if you want some heat, consider using smoked paprika or cayenne pepper. Garlic and onion powder can be swapped with fresh minced garlic and chopped onion if you have them on hand.
Oil: I prefer olive oil for its taste, but vegetable oil, canola oil, or even grapeseed oil can work just as well.
Chicken Broth: Homemade is great, but store-bought works perfectly too. If you want a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth. You could also substitute with water if needed!
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Perfectly Seared?
Getting that nice caramelization on your pork chops is key for flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your pork chops are dry. Patting them with paper towels helps them brown better.
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot, then add oil. A hot pan prevents sticking and ensures crisp, caramelized edges.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if you have more chops than space. This helps them brown instead of steam.
- Sear for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side without moving them too much. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they release easily from the pan.
This technique leads to that tasty crust while keeping the inside juicy. Enjoy your delicious brown sugar pork chops!
How to Make Delicious Brown Sugar Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
For The Seasoning:
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a hint of tang)
For Garnish:
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 15 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious dinner ready in just under 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Seasoning Mix:
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This mix will add a delicious sweet and savory flavor to your pork chops.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, gently pat the pork chops dry. This helps get a nice sear. Rub the brown sugar seasoning mixture all over both sides of each chop, making sure they’re well-coated.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Add the pork chops carefully to the hot skillet. Sear them for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until they develop a nice browned and caramelized crust. If your skillet is too crowded, cook in batches for better results.
4. Make the Sauce:
Once the chops are browned, reduce the heat to medium-low. Carefully pour in the chicken broth and add the apple cider vinegar (if using). Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
5. Simmer and Cook:
Allow the pork chops to simmer in the sauce for about 3-5 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Rest and Garnish:
Remove the pork chops from the pan and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Then, spoon the flavorful pan sauce over the pork chops and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs.
Enjoy your beautiful, caramelized pork chops with some mashed potatoes or rice to soak up that delicious sauce. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Just keep an eye on the cooking time as boneless pork chops typically cook faster than bone-in. Aim for about 2-3 minutes per side, checking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to prevent dryness.
Can I Substitute the Brown Sugar?
Absolutely! Coconut sugar is a great alternative that provides a similar sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor. You can also use honey or maple syrup for a different taste, but be cautious as they can add more liquid to the dish.
What Should I Serve with Brown Sugar Pork Chops?
These pork chops are delicious served with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. You can also pair them with a simple salad for a fresh touch!
