– **Title**: 30 Minute Brown Sugar Pork Chops
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– **Instructions**:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Rub the brown sugar mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F).
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and apple cider vinegar.
6. Once the pork chops are cooked, pour the soy sauce mixture over them in the skillet and let it simmer for an additional minute, allowing the sauce to glaze the chops.
7. Remove the skillet from the heat. Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving.
8. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve. Enjoy your delicious brown sugar pork chops!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless, 1-inch thick chops work great for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use bone-in chops for extra flavor, but adjust cooking time accordingly. Chicken breasts also make a good lean substitute.
Brown Sugar: This is key for sweetness and caramelization. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try coconut sugar or maple syrup as substitutes. Both can give a unique flavor twist!
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika contribute to the dish’s overall warmth. For a kick, you can add cayenne pepper instead of paprika or use Italian seasoning for a different herb blend.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness. You can swap it with avocado oil or canola oil if you prefer a lower flavor profile or are cooking at higher temperatures.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth to the sauce. Vegetable broth is an excellent alternative if you’re looking for a meat-free option. You can also use water with a pinch of salt in a pinch.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops perfectly can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right:
- Start with seasoning: Generously season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and spices on both sides for great flavor.
- Heat the skillet: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chops. This helps to get that beautiful brown crust.
- Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C). Overcooking will dry them out, so keep an eye on the time.
- Resting time: Allow the chops to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps them juicy.
How to Make 30 Minute Brown Sugar Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- Fresh rosemary or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Mashed potatoes (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare! This includes seasoning and cooking the pork chops, making the sauce, and serving it all up with creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Make sure they are well coated so you get lots of flavor in every bite!
2. Cook the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, carefully add the seasoned pork chops. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. They should be browned and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) when done. Use a meat thermometer if you have one to check!
3. Make the Sauce:
Once the pork chops are cooked, take them out of the skillet and set them aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the brown sugar. Stir it around until it starts to melt. Then, pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce, stirring everything together to dissolve the sugar. Let this simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens a bit.
4. Coat the Pork Chops:
Now it’s time to bring back the pork chops! Pop them back into the skillet and coat them in the sweet brown sugar sauce. Let them cook for one more minute to warm up. It’s smelling good, isn’t it?
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Time to enjoy your creation! Serve the pork chops over a bed of mashed potatoes, drizzling the brown sugar sauce on top. If you like, sprinkle some fresh rosemary or parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your quick and flavorful meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Yes, you can! Bone-in pork chops will take a little longer to cook, around 6-7 minutes on each side. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
What if I Don’t Have Brown Sugar?
No worries! You can substitute brown sugar with either granulated sugar and a small amount of molasses (about 1 tsp molasses mixed with 1 tbsp white sugar) or honey, though honey will create a slightly different texture and flavor in the sauce.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Skillet?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking can enhance the dish. Just toss them in when you return the pork chops to the skillet to heat them through in the sauce!
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep them moist!
