Description
Enjoy a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors with these 30-minute brown sugar pork chops. This quick and easy pan-seared recipe creates a caramelized crust while keeping the pork juicy and flavorful—perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless pork chops, approximately 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Rub:
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, chili powder, dried oregano, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly.
- Season the Pork Chops:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.
- Lightly season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Evenly coat each pork chop with the prepared spice rub, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat the Skillet:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Cook the Pork Chops:
- Place the seasoned pork chops in the skillet.
- Sear for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until a caramelized crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Rest the Pork Chops:
- Transfer the cooked pork chops to a plate.
- Let them rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Notes
- Herb Substitution: Replace dried oregano with dried thyme or rosemary.
- Spice Level: Adjust chili powder or add cayenne pepper for more heat.
- Cooking Methods: Grill the pork chops over medium heat for a smoky flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-seared
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Brown sugar pork chops, quick pork chop recipe, pan-seared pork, 30-minute dinner, sweet and spicy pork chops