If you’re looking for quick and easy dinner ideas, pork chops are always a great choice. They cook fast and can take on so many amazing flavors. I think you’ll be happy with these simple recipes.
Today, I’m sharing two of my absolute favorite pork chop recipes that are perfect for any weeknight meal: a sweet Brown Sugar version and a zesty Chipotle one. I designed these so you can get a delicious meal on your table without a lot of fuss.
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Sweet Brown Sugar Pork Chops Recipe
These brown sugar pork chops are glazed with a sticky, sweet sauce that everyone will adore. It’s a classic flavor that’s super easy to make for your family dinner.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Brown Sugar Chops
- Brown Sugar Amount: Don’t reduce the brown sugar! It creates the perfect glaze and helps the chops get a lovely caramelized coating.
- Pork Chop Thickness: Using chops that are at least 1-inch thick helps them stay juicy and prevents them from drying out during cooking.
- Baking Dish: Make sure your skillet is oven-safe if you plan to transfer it directly, otherwise use a baking dish.
What You Need for Brown Sugar Pork Chops
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
⏱️ Time: 25 minutes🍽️ Yields: 4 servings
How to Make Brown Sugar Pork Chops
Step 1: Make the Glaze
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder until it’s smooth. This creates your wonderful sweet glaze.
Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops
Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the pork chops in the hot skillet and sear them for 2-3 minutes per side until they have a nice golden-brown crust.
Step 3: Bake with Glaze
Pour the prepared brown sugar glaze evenly over the seared pork chops in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
📝 Final Note
Always let your pork chops rest for about 5 minutes after cooking. This keeps them juicy and tender.
Zesty Chipotle Pork Chops Recipe
If you like a little heat, these chipotle pork chops bring a wonderful smoky kick to your plate. They’re seasoned just right for a bold and flavorful meal that’s still easy to make.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Chipotle Chops
- Chipotle Powder: This is what gives your chops that signature smoky heat. You can adjust the amount based on how much spice you like.
- Fresh Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving really brightens the flavors and adds a zesty finish.
- Marinating Time: Even a quick 30-minute marinade will help the flavors sink into the pork. If you have more time, let them sit longer!
What You Need for Chipotle Pork Chops
- 4 boneless pork chops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chipotle powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh lime wedges for serving
⏱️ Time: 30 minutes (plus marinade)🍽️ Yields: 4 servings
How to Make Chipotle Pork Chops
Step 1: Prep the Marinade
In a shallow dish or a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, chipotle powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the pork chops to the marinade and turn them to coat completely. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator, or up to 4 hours.
Step 2: Cook the Chops
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork chops from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place them in the hot skillet and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, depending on their thickness, until they are golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 3: Serve Hot
Once cooked, take the chipotle pork chops out of the pan and let them rest for a few minutes. If you like, serve them with a squeeze of fresh lime juice to add extra brightness.
📝 Final Note
These zesty pork chops pair wonderfully with a simple rice pilaf or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
