These Brown Sugar Pork Chops are a tasty treat! The sweet and savory combo of brown sugar and soy sauce makes for a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully.
Who knew dinner could be so easy and yummy? Just grill them up and enjoy! I love pairing these chops with mashed potatoes—heavenly comfort food! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are best for flavor and moisture. If you’re in a pinch, boneless chops can work too, but might need less cooking time.
Brown Sugar: This gives a lovely sweetness. If you want a healthier option, coconut sugar or maple sugar can be good substitutes.
Spices: Paprika adds color and flavor. You can replace it with chili powder for a kick or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. Feel free to adjust the cayenne to suit your spice preference!
Chicken Broth: Using broth adds depth to the sauce. If you don’t have it, water works fine, but you could also try vegetable broth for a different twist.
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and thyme are perfect here. If you don’t have fresh, dried herbs can work, but use less since they are more concentrated in flavor.
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky, but here’s how to nail it every time:
- Start with room-temperature chops; this helps them cook evenly.
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chops, as this creates a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If it’s too crowded, the chops won’t brown correctly.
- Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; 145°F (63°C) is safe for pork.
- Rest the chops after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, making them tender.
Following these tips will help you enjoy juicy and flavorful pork chops every time!
How to Make Brown Sugar Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as rosemary or thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 10 minutes for prep and roughly 15 minutes for cooking, making the total time around 25 minutes. Easy and quick, right? This means you can have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. This mix will add a delicious flavor to your pork chops!
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely. Rub both sides of each pork chop evenly with the brown sugar spice mixture you made. Make sure to coat them well for maximum flavor!
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet and sear them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they have a rich golden-brown crust. This step is key to locking in flavor!
4. Cook Through:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the chicken broth (or water) to the pan. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, or until the pork chops are fully cooked (the internal temperature should read 145°F or 63°C).
5. Rest the Chops:
Once done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and cover them loosely with foil to keep warm while you finish the sauce.
6. Make the Sauce:
Stir the butter into the pan sauce, allowing it to melt and thicken slightly. This adds richness to the sauce that will go over the chops!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Spoon the delicious sauce over the pork chops and garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for a lovely touch. Serve warm, ideally with mashed potatoes or your favorite vegetable side for a complete meal.
These Brown Sugar Pork Chops are sure to be a hit at your dinner table! Enjoy the sweet, savory goodness!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Boneless pork chops will work, but they may cook faster than bone-in ones, so adjust the cooking time accordingly. Start checking for doneness after about 4-5 minutes per side.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can use coconut sugar or a mixture of white sugar with a bit of molasses. For a low-calorie option, consider using a sugar substitute that can withstand cooking.
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 a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
Can I Freeze Cooked Pork Chops?
Absolutely! Cool the pork chops completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
