🥩 Delicious Brown Sugar Chops

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that combines sweet and savory perfection, these Delicious Brown Sugar Chops are a must-try! Juicy, tender pork chops caramelized in a rich brown sugar glaze with hints of garlic, butter, and a touch of spice — this easy recipe will turn an ordinary dinner into something truly mouthwatering.

Whether you cook them on the stovetop, in the oven, or on the grill, these chops deliver a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a deep, sweet-savory flavor everyone will love.


🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & fast — Ready in under 30 minutes!
Perfect flavor balance — Sweet brown sugar meets savory garlic and pepper.
Family favorite — A hit with kids and adults alike.
Versatile — Works with bone-in or boneless pork chops.


🥣 Ingredients

You’ll only need a few pantry staples to make this dish shine:

  • 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about ¾ to 1 inch thick)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • ½ cup brown sugar, packed (light or dark both work)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a subtle heat)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for a savory umami kick)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (for balance)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels — this helps them sear beautifully.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.


Step 2: Sear the Chops

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the pork chops and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Remove them from the skillet and set aside.


Step 3: Make the Brown Sugar Glaze

Reduce heat to medium-low and add butter to the skillet.
Once melted, stir in garlic, cooking just until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Add brown sugar, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar.
Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to bubble and thicken slightly (about 1–2 minutes).


Step 4: Return the Chops & Coat Them

Return the seared pork chops to the skillet.
Spoon the brown sugar glaze over them generously.
Continue cooking for another 4–6 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chops are fully cooked and the glaze has thickened into a sticky, glossy sauce.

🕒 Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly juicy pork.


Step 5: Rest & Serve

Remove from heat and let the chops rest for 5 minutes before serving — this locks in the juices and lets the glaze set beautifully.


🍽️ Serving Ideas

These brown sugar pork chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides:

  • Garlic mashed potatoes or buttery rice pilaf
  • Roasted sweet potatoes or caramelized carrots
  • Steamed green beans, broccoli, or asparagus
  • Garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut the sweetness

For a Southern-style twist, serve with buttery cornbread and collard greens.


🧊 Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water or butter to keep the glaze smooth.
  • Freeze: You can freeze cooked chops for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

💡 Tips & Variations

For a smoky flavor: Add a dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.
To make it spicier: Increase cayenne or stir in a little hot sauce.
Use chicken: This same brown sugar glaze works perfectly on chicken breasts or thighs.
Add herbs: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary makes the glaze extra aromatic.


❤️ Final Thoughts

These Delicious Brown Sugar Chops are everything you want in a weeknight dinner — simple, flavorful, and satisfying. The caramelized brown sugar glaze adds a rich sweetness that perfectly complements the savory, juicy pork.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family meal or a special dinner, this recipe never disappoints. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds! 🍴💛

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

🥩 Delicious Brown Sugar Chops


  • Author: WAFA LI

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for cooking)

For the brown sugar glaze:
• ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp mustard powder (optional)


Instructions

  1. Season pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm olive oil. Sear chops 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, add all glaze ingredients. Whisk together and simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Return pork chops to the skillet, spooning sauce over them.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 6–8 minutes (or bake at 375°F for 15 mins) until chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  6. Flip halfway and baste often with the glaze for a sticky, caramelized finish.
  7. Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Spoon extra sauce on top!

Serve with:
• Mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the sauce
• Roasted vegetables or green beans
• A crisp apple salad

💡 Make it ahead: Glaze can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 1 week. Reheat before using.

PREP TIME & NUTRITION :
Prep Time : 10 mins , Cook Time : 20 mins , Total Time : 30 mins , Servings : 4 , Calories : 320 per chop , Net Carbs: 20g , Fats: 14g , Protein: 26g

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating

Videos