Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This brown sugar chop recipe is a wonderful balance of sweet and savory, with a glaze that caramelizes perfectly on the meat. The pork chops are juicy and flavorful, and the sauce brings a deep, rich sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the saltiness of soy sauce. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that will impress your family or guests. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means minimal cleanup!

Brown Sugar Chops

Ingredients

4 bone-in pork chops
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Salt to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Pour the brown sugar mixture over the pork chops, making sure they’re evenly coated.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C).
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: For a one-pan meal, add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans to the skillet along with the pork chops and bake them together.
Use Boneless Pork Chops: You can swap bone-in pork chops for boneless if you prefer. Adjust cooking time slightly, as boneless chops cook faster.
Sweet and Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick to balance out the sweetness.
Different Cuts of Meat: If you prefer chicken, this recipe works great with chicken thighs or breasts as well. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the meat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the pork chops in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the oven helps maintain their juiciness and crispness.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?

Yes, you can use boneless pork chops. Just reduce the cooking time slightly since boneless chops cook faster.

2. How do I know when the pork chops are done?

The pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for the most accurate results.

3. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the glaze up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it up slightly before using it.

4. What should I serve with brown sugar chops?

These pork chops pair well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad.

5. Can I use a different type of sugar?

You can use white sugar or maple syrup as an alternative, though it may slightly change the flavor profile.

6. Can I cook the pork chops on the stovetop instead of in the oven?

Yes, you can cook them entirely on the stovetop. After searing, reduce the heat and cover the skillet, cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chops.

7. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just make sure your skillet is large enough to accommodate the extra pork chops, or cook them in batches.

8. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork chops for up to 2-3 months. Let them cool completely before wrapping in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag.

9. What type of pork chops work best for this recipe?

Bone-in pork chops are ideal for this recipe because they tend to stay juicier during cooking. However, you can use boneless chops if preferred.

10. Can I make this recipe with chicken instead of pork?

Yes, chicken breasts or thighs work well in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the chicken.

Conclusion

Brown sugar chops are an easy, flavorful dish that combines sweetness and savory elements, making them a hit for any occasion. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, this recipe guarantees a juicy, tender meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this dish is a winner!