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Delicious Brown Sugar Chops

Delicious Brown Sugar Chops

Delicious Brown Sugar Chops feature tender, juicy pork chops glazed with a sweet and savory caramelized brown sugar sauce. This quick and easy recipe delivers a perfect balance of flavors, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With simple ingredients and optional variations, these chops are versatile, flavorful, and sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice

Optional Spices

  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a perfect sear. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to build a foundational flavor.
  2. Make the Brown Sugar Glaze: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar with butter or olive oil and add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for brightness. Stir in any optional spices like cinnamon or smoked paprika if desired.
  3. Sear the Chops: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Sear the pork chops for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust, which locks in moisture and flavor.
  4. Apply the Glaze and Cook Through: Reduce heat to medium. Brush the brown sugar glaze over the chops, then continue cooking for 3 to 5 minutes more. Flip the chops once during this time and brush on additional glaze. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chops from the heat and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy meat. Serve warm with your choice of sides and garnishes.

Notes

  • Use fresh, thick-cut pork chops for the best texture and flavor.
  • Rest pork chops after cooking to retain juiciness.
  • Maintain medium heat to avoid burning the sugar glaze.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check doneness accurately.
  • Apply multiple coats of glaze for a shiny, flavorful finish.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork chops, brown sugar glaze, sweet and savory pork, quick pork dinner, caramelized pork chops, easy dinner recipe