Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Glaze:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Garnish: Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sugar-Spice Crust
Pat pork chops dry. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub evenly over both sides of each chop.
2. Sear the Chops
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tbsp oil. Sear pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side without moving them, until golden and caramelized. Remove chops and set aside.
3. Make the Glaze
Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chicken broth, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly syrupy.
4. Finish and Serve
Return pork chops to the skillet, spoon glaze over them. Cook for 1 more minute to coat chops in the sticky sauce. Remove from heat and let rest 5 minutes.
Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary and serve.
Pro Tips
- Use thick-cut boneless chops if you prefer (reduce cooking time by 1 minute per side).
- Double the glaze for extra sauciness—your taste buds will thank you!
- Let chops rest before slicing to keep them juicy and tender.
Perfect Pairings
Serve these brown sugar pork chops alongside garlic mashed potatoes and roasted Brussels sprouts for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal.
