Looking for a unique and mouthwatering way to enjoy pork chops? This delicious brown sugar chops recipe blends the perfect balance of sweetness and savory flavors, creating a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. The pork chops are seared to perfection and then baked with a rich brown sugar glaze, resulting in tender, juicy meat with a delightful caramelized crust. This recipe is simple to make, yet full of flavor, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, cinnamon, salt, and ginger to form the glaze. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
- Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. This will help lock in the flavors and keep the pork chops juicy.
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside. Lower the heat to medium and pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Stir the glaze mixture into the broth, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the skillet. Bring it to a simmer for about 2 minutes to allow the flavors to combine and thicken slightly.
- Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning some of the glaze over each chop. Ensure the chops are well-coated.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and are fully cooked through.
- Once done, remove the skillet from the oven. Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender meat.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve the brown sugar chops with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Conclusion: These brown sugar chops are a perfect example of how a little creativity can elevate a simple pork chop into an unforgettable dish. The sweet and savory glaze caramelizes in the oven, giving each chop a beautifully rich flavor and an irresistible aroma. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or just a weeknight meal, these brown sugar chops will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.