These brown sugar pork chops are sweet, juicy, and oh-so-easy to make! A lovely mix of tender pork and a caramelized glaze will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Honestly, who knew such delicious flavor could come from just a sprinkle of brown sugar? I love serving them with some rice or veggies—perfect for a quick, tasty dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are fantastic for flavor and moisture, but you can also use boneless chops. Just adjust cooking time since boneless cooks a bit faster.
Brown Sugar: This is the star ingredient, giving sweetness and caramelization. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use white sugar with a little molasses added for flavor, if available!
Paprika: It adds color and a mild smokiness. You can swap it for smoked paprika for a deeper flavor or even cayenne if you like a bit of heat.
Thyme: Fresh thyme brings a lovely herbal note. If you only have dried thyme, use half the amount, as dried spices are more potent!
How Can I Achieve a Perfect Crust on My Pork Chops?
Getting a nice golden-brown crust on pork chops is all about the searing technique. Here’s how to do it right!
- First, make sure the pork chops are dry—this helps in getting that sear.
- Heat your skillet until it’s really hot; this is key! Add oil and wait until it shimmers before adding the chops.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; it can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if needed.
- Let them be until they naturally lift off the pan—resist the urge to flip them too soon!
With these simple tips, you’ll get those beautifully caramelized, mouth-watering chops that everyone will love!
How to Make Brown Sugar Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you should expect to spend around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until it’s thoroughly blended. This spice mixture will give the pork chops a nice sweet and savory flavor!
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to help them sear better. Then, generously rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of each pork chop, ensuring they’re well coated.
3. Heat the Skillet:
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Heat until the oil shimmers but does not smoke—this means it’s hot enough for searing!
4. Sear the Pork Chops:
Add the seasoned pork chops to the hot skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, allowing them to develop that beautiful golden-brown crust. Don’t flip them too soon; let them get that nice caramelization!
5. Add Butter and Thyme:
Once the chops are browned, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and fresh thyme leaves to the pan. As the butter melts, spoon it over the chops for added flavor and moisture. Cook for about 2 more minutes.
6. Simmer in Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the pork chops simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Rest Before Serving:
Carefully remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for juicy chops!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Spoon the delicious pan sauce over the chops before serving. These sweet and savory pork chops pair wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
Enjoy your meal—these brown sugar pork chops are bound to be a hit!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they will cook faster, so check for doneness a couple of minutes earlier than the recipe suggests.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Cooled leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Substitute the Chicken Broth?
Absolutely! You can use water if you’re in a pinch, or even vegetable broth for a different flavor profile. Just be aware that it may alter the overall taste slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
What Should I Serve With Brown Sugar Pork Chops?
These chops go wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh vegetable stir-fry. You can also serve them with a simple salad for a lighter option!
