These pan-seared brown sugar pork chops are the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, featuring a flavorful rub made with brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, and a hint of Cajun seasoning. This quick and easy recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, ready in just 30 minutes. Serve with mashed potatoes for a comforting and satisfying meal everyone will love!
⭐️ Why This Recipe Works
- Sweet & Spicy Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and spices creates a rich, balanced flavor that caramelizes beautifully on the pork chops.
- Fast & Easy: The pork chops cook in just 8-10 minutes, making this an ideal choice for a fast weeknight dinner.
- Perfect Crust: The brown sugar helps form a gorgeous caramelized crust on the pork chops.
- Flexible Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer skillet, grill, or oven-baked, this recipe adapts to your preferred cooking style.
🧾 Ingredients Overview
- Pork Chops: Choose boneless, 1-inch thick pork chops for juiciness and tenderness.
- Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create the caramelized crust.
- Chili Powder: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.
- Dried Oregano & Cajun Seasoning: These spices enhance the savory profile and offer extra complexity.
- Paprika & Garlic Powder: Paprika lends a smoky richness, while garlic powder adds a savory punch.
- Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper: Essential for cooking and seasoning the pork chops.
For detailed measurements, refer to the recipe card at the bottom of the page.
👩🏻🍳 How to Make 30-Minute Brown Sugar Pork Chops
- Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, chili powder, dried oregano, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until well mixed.
- Season the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry. Season both sides with salt and pepper, then rub the spice mixture evenly over each chop.
- Cook the Pork Chops: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the pork chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and have a beautifully caramelized crust.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
📖 Variations
- Spice Level: For a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili powder or add some cayenne pepper to the spice mix.
- Herb Variation: Swap the Cajun seasoning for Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
- Cooking Method: While this recipe uses a skillet, you can also grill or bake the pork chops for a slightly different texture.
💡 Chef’s Tips for Success
- Brining the Pork: To ensure your pork chops stay juicy, brine them in a saltwater solution for about 30 minutes before cooking.
- Butter Basting: For an extra layer of richness, add a pat of butter to the pan during the last minute of cooking and baste the pork chops with the melted butter.
🍯 Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Fridge: Store cooked pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pork chops in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: To reheat, place the pork chops in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them on medium heat for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
❓ Recipe FAQ
Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
What can I serve with brown sugar pork chops?
These pork chops pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Related Recipes You Might Love:
- Honey Garlic Pork Belly
- Indian Pork Curry
- Sticky Asian Pork Meatballs
- Pork Lettuce Wraps
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