These brown sugar garlic pork chops are sweet, savory, and super easy to make! They’re juicy with a tasty glaze that makes every bite a treat for your taste buds.
Your kitchen will smell amazing while they’re cooking! I love serving them with mashed potatoes, as they soak up that yummy glaze. You’ll want to make this again and again! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend bone-in pork chops for added flavor and juiciness. You can also use boneless chops, or swap them with chicken breasts if you prefer poultry.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar is great for this recipe, but you can use dark brown sugar for a richer taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, feel free to substitute with coconut sugar or honey, adjusting the quantity as honey is sweeter.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative. For a different flavor, consider using teriyaki sauce.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for that strong aroma. In a pinch, garlic powder works, but use it sparingly since it’s more concentrated. Also, feel free to add more if you’re a garlic lover!
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: This is optional, but I love a little kick! If you don’t have them, you can use cayenne pepper or even black pepper for a milder flavor.
How Do You Ensure the Pork Chops Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking pork chops just right can be tricky. Here’s how you can nail it:
- First, make sure your skillet is hot before you add the pork chops. This ensures a nice sear.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them. Flip them only once to keep them juicy.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; look for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe eating.
- Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices and keeps your chops moist.
Try not to overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed for the best results. Happy cooking!
How to Make Brown Sugar Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Steamed broccoli and cauliflower for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 10-15 minutes for cooking. Plus, you’ll want to marinate the pork chops for at least 30 minutes, so plan for about 40-45 minutes total if you want a quick meal, or up to 2 hours if you have time to let the flavors soak in.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Stir until everything is well combined. This mixture will be the delicious marinade for your pork chops!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, making sure they are fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and pop it in the refrigerator. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you want even more flavor.
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Take the pork chops out of the fridge and remove them from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade. Place the pork chops in the hot skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until they are golden brown. Flip them over and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side until the pork chops are fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
4. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, take the pork chops off the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Serve your pork chops garnished with fresh parsley, alongside some steamed broccoli and cauliflower for a delicious meal. Enjoy!
Can I Substitute the Brown Sugar?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use coconut sugar or honey as a substitute for brown sugar. If using honey, reduce the amount slightly (about 3 tablespoons) and remember it will change the texture a bit since it’s liquid.
How to Marinate Pork Chops If Short on Time?
If you’re short on time, even a 15-minute marinade can enhance the flavor! Just ensure to coat the pork chops thoroughly and let them marinate at room temperature while you prepare the skillet.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave them or warm them gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
What Can I Serve with Brown Sugar Garlic Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides! Along with the steamed broccoli and cauliflower, you could serve them over a bed of rice or alongside roasted sweet potatoes for a balanced meal. A simple side salad also works well!
