These quick and tasty brown sugar pork chops are a family favorite! They cook up in just 30 minutes, making dinner feel like a breeze on busy nights.
I love how the sweet and savory flavors come together, giving them a sticky glaze that’s hard to resist. Perfect with rice or veggies for a simple meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops offer great flavor and tenderness. If you’re in a pinch, boneless pork chops work fine, but watch the cooking time, as they may cook faster. Pork tenderloin could also be a leaner alternative.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds sweetness and depth. If you don’t have it, you can use white sugar with a bit of molasses. It won’t be exactly the same, but it can do the job. Agave syrup is another sweet alternative.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and depth to the marinade. If you’re avoiding soy, tamari or coconut aminos can work as a gluten-free substitute. You might also try liquid aminos for a similar taste profile.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This gives a nice tang. If you don’t have it, lemon juice is a fine substitute for a citrus kick. White vinegar could work too, but use it sparingly since it’s stronger.
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powder add flavor without the fuss of chopping. Fresh minced garlic and onion are great too, but adjust to taste since they’re more potent.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Cooked Properly?
Cooking pork chops correctly is key to keeping them juicy. Start by ensuring they are patted dry before marinating to help the marinade stick better. Medium-high heat is critical; too high could burn the outside, while too low might dry them out.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Let the chops rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps the juices redistribute for extra tenderness.
How to Make 30 Minute Brown Sugar Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend a little time mixing the marinade and letting the pork chops soak it up, with the cooking process taking around 15-20 minutes. Quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything together until well mixed to create your flavorful marinade.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better. Coat each chop evenly with the marinade, making sure to save some for later. Let them sit and marinate for at least 10 minutes while you heat the skillet.
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated pork chops to the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re well browned and have reached an internal temperature of 145°F.
4. Add the Sauce:
In the last minute of cooking, drizzle the reserved marinade over the pork chops in the skillet. Let it bubble and reduce slightly to form a lovely sauce.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the pork chops to a serving plate. Pour the sauce over the top and garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious brown sugar pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster than bone-in chops. Aim for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses—about 1 tablespoon of molasses for every cup of white sugar. Alternatively, coconut sugar can be used as a 1:1 substitute for brown sugar!
How to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli to the skillet while cooking the pork chops. Just add them for the last few minutes of cooking so they become tender but still colorful and crisp!
