Description
This Easy 30 Minute Brown Sugar Pork Chops recipe features tender boneless pork chops coated in a flavorful blend of brown sugar and spices, pan-seared to a caramelized perfection. It’s a quick and delicious meal that balances sweet and savory flavors with a hint of Cajun spice, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Spice Mix
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (granules)
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, chili powder, dried oregano, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix everything thoroughly to create an even spice blend.
- Season the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry using a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Season both sides with salt and pepper, then rub the prepared spice mix evenly over each pork chop, ensuring good coverage.
- Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Heat the oil until it becomes hot and slightly shimmering to ensure a good sear.
- Cook the Pork Chops: Place the pork chops in the hot skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side. Cook until the chops are nicely caramelized on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), ensuring they are cooked through but still juicy.
- Rest the Pork Chops: Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping the pork chops tender and flavorful before serving.
Notes
- Using a meat thermometer helps achieve perfect doneness without overcooking.
- Letting the pork chops rest improves juiciness and tenderness.
- You can adjust the spice mix according to your heat preference by adding more or less chili powder or Cajun seasoning.
- If you prefer a slightly sweeter profile, increase the brown sugar to 3 tablespoons.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: brown sugar pork chops, easy pork chops recipe, quick pork chops, pan-seared pork chops, Cajun pork chops, sweet and spicy pork chops
