Description
Easy 30-Minute Brown Sugar Pork Chops are juicy, tender, and coated in a caramelized brown sugar glaze with hints of garlic, paprika, and butter. Ready in under 30 minutes, this sweet and savory dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that tastes like comfort food perfection.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or chicken broth (for deglazing)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 145°F / 63°C). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet, then stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add brown sugar and apple cider vinegar (or broth), stirring until the mixture melts into a smooth glaze.
- Return pork chops to the skillet and spoon the glaze over them. Simmer for 1–2 minutes to coat well.
- Remove from heat, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Use bone-in pork chops for extra juiciness — just increase cook time slightly.
- For a deeper flavor, replace apple cider vinegar with a splash of bourbon or balsamic vinegar.
- Be careful not to overcook the pork chops; they should remain juicy and tender.
- This glaze also pairs beautifully with chicken or salmon.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American