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Brown Sugar Garlic Pork Chops

These Brown Sugar Garlic Pork Chops are an easy and flavorful dish that brings together sweet caramelized brown sugar and savory garlic for a comforting family meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pork Chops

  • 4 pieces boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick) Choose center-cut for tenderness; loin chops are a healthy option.

Cooking Essentials

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Or avocado oil for higher smoke point.
  • 1 tablespoon butter For finishing richness; use olive oil for dairy-free.

Flavorings

  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar Light or dark both work; dark gives deeper molasses notes.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic for depth; jarred will work in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Optional, adds warmth and color.
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt Plus more to taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Acid and Broth

  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or lemon juice Brightens the sauce.
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth Swap for vegetable broth for a lighter option.

Garnish

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or thyme, chopped For garnish.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Pat the pork chops dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Cooking

  • Add pork chops and sear 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  • Remove chops to a plate and lower heat to medium.
  • Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
  • Stir in the brown sugar and watch it melt into the garlic, turning a glossy caramel.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  • Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning sauce over them. Simmer gently for 3–6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the sauce thickens slightly.
  • Remove the chops to a cutting board and let them rest for 5 minutes.
  • Finish the sauce with the butter for shine and richness, then spoon over the chops and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.

Notes

For a lower-sugar version, reduce the brown sugar to 1 tablespoon and add a teaspoon of maple syrup or a pinch of stevia.
Keyword brown sugar, Comfort Food, Garlic, Pork Chops, Quick Dinner