These sweet and sour pork chops are a tasty mix of flavors! They’re marinated in a delightful sauce that brings out the best in the juicy pork chops. Yum!
I love how quick this dish is to make—perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it with rice or veggies, and you’ve got a meal that makes everyone smile! 😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are a great choice for this recipe because they’re juicy and tender. If you prefer a healthier option, you can use boneless chicken breasts instead. Just reduce the cooking time slightly.
Vegetable Oil: I use vegetable oil for frying, but you can substitute with canola or olive oil. Olive oil has a different flavor but works well for sautéing too.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds a bright taste, but canned is just as good! Make sure it’s well-drained. If you want a different twist, try using mango chunks for a tropical vibe.
Chicken Broth: Homemade chicken broth can elevate the dish. If you’re vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead; it still brings great flavor to the sauce!
Cornstarch: This is key for thickening the sauce. If you don’t have any, all-purpose flour can work, but it may take longer to achieve the right thickness.
How Do I Get the Pork Chops Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pork chops may seem tricky, but it’s simple with the right approach! Start by seasoning them with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. Dredging in flour creates a nice crust that helps seal in juices.
- Heat oil over medium-high heat. This ensures a good sear, giving a crispy exterior.
- Cook each chop for about 4-5 minutes per side, but check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety.
- Rest the pork chops for a couple of minutes after cooking. This keeps them juicy!
Keep an eye on them while they cook to avoid overcooking, which can made them tough. Enjoy those tender bites with the sweet and sour sauce!
How to Make Sweet and Sour Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons white vinegar
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
For Serving:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, set aside about 30 minutes to create this sweet and sour dish that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides. Next, dredge each chop in flour, gently shaking off any excess flour. This coating helps create a nice crispy crust when they’re cooked!
2. Cooking the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked. When done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Sauté them for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. The flavors will soak into the skillet, enhancing the dish!
4. Adding Pineapple:
Stir in the pineapple chunks into the pan with the onions and peppers, mixing well to combine. This will add a delicious sweetness to the dish.
5. Making the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, ketchup, white vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables and pineapple. Let it simmer for a few minutes to marry all those great flavors!
6. Thickening the Sauce:
Once simmering, add the cornstarch slurry while stirring continuously. This will help thicken the sauce beautifully. Cook for 1-2 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
7. Combining Everything:
Return the cooked pork chops to the skillet, spooning some of that delicious sauce over them. Allow everything to warm through for another 2-3 minutes.
8. Serving it Up:
Serve the sweet and sour pork chops over a bed of fluffy white rice for a perfect meal. Don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions for an added pop of flavor and color!
Enjoy your sweet and sour pork chops with that rich, tangy sauce and tender pork! It’s a delightful dish that’s sure to please any crowd!
Can I Use Bone-in Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time since they may take a bit longer to cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), and consider adding an extra 2-3 minutes of cooking time per side.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! To make it gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch for dredging the pork chops, and use a gluten-free soy sauce for the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition and color. Just make sure to sauté them long enough for them to become tender before adding the sauce.
