Looking for a quick, flavorful, and juicy pork chop recipe? These Brown Sugar Pork Chops are pan-seared to perfection, coated in a sweet and savory brown sugar glaze, and ready in just 30 minutes! The combination of garlic, butter, and brown sugar creates a caramelized crust that enhances the natural flavors of the pork.
This is the perfect weeknight dinner—simple to make, yet restaurant-quality in taste. Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Pork Chops
- 4 boneless or bone-in pork chops (about 200 g each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
For the Brown Sugar Glaze
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 50 g (¼ cup) brown sugar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Season & Sear the Pork Chops
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Rub this seasoning mix evenly over the pork chops.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Brown Sugar Glaze
- Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the same pan, and let it melt.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir and let the glaze simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 3: Coat & Serve
- Return the pork chops to the pan, spooning the glaze over the top.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F).
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve with your favorite sides and drizzle extra glaze over the top.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 18g
- Sodium: 450mg
Tips & Tricks for Juicy Pork Chops
✔ Use thick-cut pork chops (at least 2.5 cm / 1 inch thick) to prevent drying out.
✔ For extra tenderness, brine the pork chops in saltwater for 30 minutes before cooking.
✔ Deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth if the glaze gets too thick.
✔ Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
✔ For a smoky twist, use maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
???? Super quick – ready in 30 minutes!
???? Sweet, savory, and perfectly glazed
???? Pan-seared for a crispy, caramelized crust
???? Pairs well with rice, potatoes, or roasted veggies
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