These brown sugar pork chops are a real treat! The sweet brown sugar caramelizes in the pan, making each bite juicy and delicious. It’s a simple recipe that’s perfect for any night.
Who doesn’t love a little sweetness with their meat? Sometimes, I can’t help but sneak a taste right off the pan! Pair these chops with some veggies for a complete meal that’s easy and yummy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops add flavor and tenderness. If you prefer, boneless chops or even thick-cut loin chops can work well.
Brown Sugar: This is the star of the dish! You can substitute with coconut sugar or even maple syrup in a pinch, but adjust the quantity to taste.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or cayenne for a kick can replace it. Garlic and onion powders are essential for flavor; fresh garlic can also be used.
Butter: Unsalted butter is used here, but feel free to swap in ghee or olive oil if you want a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get a Perfectly Seared Chops?
Getting a good sear on your pork chops makes a big difference in taste. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet. Preheat your skillet to medium-high before adding oil.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. A dry surface helps achieve that golden-brown crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If your skillet is too full, the chops will steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if needed.
- Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes. Resist the urge to move them around, which can prevent that beautiful crust from forming.
- Use a meat thermometer. Cook until the internal temp reaches 145°F (63°C) for juicy, tender chops.
Following these tips will ensure your brown sugar pork chops are a hit every time!
Delicious Brown Sugar Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for deglazing)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to cook, making it a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This will create a sweet and savory rub for your pork chops.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, pat the pork chops dry. This is important to achieve a nice sear. Rub the brown sugar spice mixture evenly over both sides of each pork chop to ensure they’re packed with flavor.
3. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot. This will help give the pork chops a great sear.
4. Sear the Pork Chops:
Add the pork chops to the hot skillet and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want to achieve a beautiful browned crust, and the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked chops.
5. Add Butter and Garlic:
In the last minute of cooking, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the unsalted butter and minced garlic to the skillet. As the butter melts, spoon it over the chops. This adds wonderful flavor and helps glaze the meat!
6. Optional Deglazing:
If you like, you can remove the pork chops to a plate and let them rest. Then add the chicken broth to the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom. Pour this tasty sauce over the chops before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs if you’d like, and serve the pork chops warm. They pair wonderfully with veggies, rice, or a simple salad. Enjoy your sweet and savory meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe, but keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster than bone-in chops. Aim for that same internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use coconut sugar or a mix of granulated sugar with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of sugar). Maple syrup can also work, just adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! If you enjoy some heat, you can add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice mix. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to your taste. Enjoy the wonderful balance of sweet and spicy!
