Get ready to fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of garlic and herbs thanks to these Savory Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Pork Chops. This recipe is perfect for those busy days when you crave a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Just set it and forget it!
Pork chops are the star of the show, providing a juicy and tender base. A good sear locks in the flavors. Olive oil is used to develop a rich, golden crust on the pork chops. The garlic adds a bold, aromatic depth, while the trio of rosemary, thyme, and oregano bring an earthy, savory balance. A pinch of salt and black pepper enhances all these flavors. The chicken broth acts as a cooking liquid, keeping the meat moist and flavorful. Finally, a cornstarch slurry thickens the juices into a luscious sauce.
These savory pork chops pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or steamed rice to soak up that delicious sauce. A side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad will complement the richness perfectly.
First, let's get those pork chops ready. Sprinkle them generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. You want them well-seasoned to bring out all their natural flavors. Next, heat up a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear them until they're beautifully browned on both sides. This usually takes about 3 minutes per side, but keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.
Transfer the seared pork chops to your slow cooker. Don’t clean that skillet just yet! You'll want to use all those delicious brown bits left behind. Toss the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and oregano into the skillet. Stir them around for about a minute, just until they become fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Scrape up every bit of flavor stuck to the bottom.
Once the broth is bubbling and all those flavors are combined, pour it over the pork chops in the slow cooker. Now, cover the slow cooker and set it on low. Let it work its magic for 6 to 7 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the pork chops are tender and practically falling apart.
Before serving, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this into the juices in the slow cooker to thicken the sauce. This will only take a few minutes, and then you’re ready to serve.