Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these Spicy Brown Sugar Glazed Pork Chops! This mouthwatering dish combines the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it an irresistible choice for dinner any night of the week. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, you can impress your family and friends with a gourmet meal that looks and tastes like it came from a five-star restaurant. Don’t miss out on the secret to achieving that perfect caramelized glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a spice rub. Mix thoroughly until ingredients are well blended.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the spice rub adhere better to the meat.
- Generously coat each pork chop on both sides with the prepared spice and brown sugar mixture, pressing gently to ensure the seasoning sticks to the meat.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering and hot.
- Carefully place the seasoned pork chops into the hot skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Flip the pork chops and continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness.
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest on a clean plate for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Optional: While resting, the brown sugar will create a delicious caramelized glaze on the pork chops.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired.
Tips
- Bring to Room Temperature: Allow your pork chops to sit out for about 30 minutes before cooking. This step helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Make a Flavorful Rub: Mix the brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper thoroughly to create a spice rub that enhances the flavor of the pork chops.
- Dry the Meat: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels before applying the spice rub. This helps the seasoning stick better and promotes a nice crust when cooked.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When placing the pork chops in the skillet, make sure they have enough space. Overcrowding can cause them to steam instead of sear, preventing that delicious golden-brown crust.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your pork chops are perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Let Them Rest: After cooking, let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme not only adds color but also enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 290kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 85mg
