These pork chops are incredibly tender and flavorful, with a sticky-sweet brown sugar glaze that caramelizes beautifully. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
- 1 tablespoon water or chicken broth.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork Chops:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better.
- Season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and black pepper.
- Make the Brown Sugar Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Sear the Pork Chops:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Glaze and Cook:
- Reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Pour the brown sugar glaze over the pork chops.
- Add the tablespoon of water or broth to the pan.
- If you would like, add the tablespoon of butter now.
- Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the glaze has thickened slightly, spooning the glaze over the chops frequently. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is recommended for pork.
- Rest and Serve:
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Spoon the remaining glaze from the skillet over the pork chops.
- Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Tips and Variations:
- For thicker pork chops, you may need to increase the cooking time.
- You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the level of spiciness.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
- If your glaze becomes to thick, add a little more water or broth.
- For a smokier flavor, a 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika can be added to the glaze.