Hearty Slow-Cooked Pork Chops

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 7 hours
🍽 Serves: 4
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Nothing says comfort quite like a plate of tender, slow-cooked pork chops. This recipe brings together savory and sweet flavors that meld beautifully over hours of gentle cooking. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special weekend treat.

Ingredients for Hearty Slow-Cooked Pork Chops

Pork chops: Bone-in chops give the best flavor and tenderness. The bone helps retain moisture.

Olive oil: Used for searing, adding a touch of richness and helping to lock in flavors.

Salt and black pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance the natural flavor of the pork.

Chicken broth: Adds depth to the sauce, balancing the sweetness of the sugar.

Low-sodium soy sauce: Provides umami and saltiness without overpowering the dish.

Brown sugar: Lends a subtle sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the sauce.

Garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.

Onion: Adds a touch of sweetness and texture.

Dried thyme: A warm herb that complements the pork and enhances the sauce.

Tips & Tricks

  • Make sure to sear the chops well; this enhances flavor and texture.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid in the last hour of cooking to let some liquid evaporate.
  • For a touch of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mix.

Serving Suggestions

These pork chops are fabulous with creamy mashed potatoes or a simple side of steamed green beans. For a lighter option, serve with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the rich sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, but they may cook faster, so check for doneness around the 5-hour mark.
What if I don't have a slow cooker?
You can bake the chops covered in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 2-3 hours.

Hearty Slow-Cooked Pork Chops Recipe Walkthrough

Start by patting the pork chops dry with a paper towel, then rub them with salt and black pepper. This simple step ensures they sear nicely.

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned pork chops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust. This not only locks in flavor but also adds a lovely color to the dish. Transfer the chops to your slow cooker.

In the same skillet, toss in the garlic and onion. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they're fragrant and the onion softens slightly. Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, and dried thyme. Stir everything together, letting it come to a gentle simmer. This step allows the flavors to meld before they meet the pork chops.

Pour this aromatic mixture over the pork chops in the slow cooker. Cover and set to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours. Patience is key here; the slow cooking process breaks down the pork to tender perfection.

When the time is up, serve the pork chops warm, drizzling some of that savory sauce over the top for extra flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Minimal prep and maximum flavor.
  • Uses simple ingredients you probably already have.
  • Perfectly tender pork chops every time.
  • Rich, savory sauce that pairs well with many sides.

Ingredients

4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, sliced
1 teaspoon dried thyme

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Season the pork chops with salt and black pepper.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Transfer pork chops to the slow cooker.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and onion, and sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
4. Add chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, and dried thyme to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
5. Pour the mixture over the pork chops in the slow cooker.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the pork is tender and fully cooked.
7. Serve warm with the sauce drizzled over the top.

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