These garlic brown sugar pork chops are sweet, savory, and oh-so-tender! Cooked in a herb wine sauce, they bring a burst of flavor to your dinner table.
I love how the sugar gives the pork a nice caramelized finish. Pair it with some veggies and you have a meal that feels fancy without the fuss! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops add flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, boneless chops work too, but they might cook a bit faster, so watch the time!
Brown Sugar: This gives a sweet glaze. You can replace it with honey or maple syrup if that’s what you have, just adjust the amounts since they are sweeter.
White Wine: Use a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. If you don’t want to use alcohol, chicken broth is a great alternative. Just skip the wine and use an extra half-cup of broth!
Herbs: I really enjoy using fresh herbs when possible. If you have fresh rosemary or thyme, they can replace dried versions for a stronger flavor. Just use about three times the amount of fresh herbs.
How Do I Properly Sear Pork Chops for Maximum Flavor?
Searing pork chops is key for building a rich flavor. Start with a hot skillet for that nice golden crust! Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to pat the pork chops dry. This gets rid of extra moisture so they sear well.
- Season them generously on both sides. A little salt and pepper work wonders!
- Use medium-high heat, adding olive oil until it shimmers before placing the chops in the pan.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed. This helps them brown evenly.
- Sear for 3-4 minutes per side without moving them around. Letting them sit is crucial for that crust!
By following these tips, your pork chops will have an incredible texture and flavor that makes every bite enjoyable!
Easy Garlic Brown Sugar Pork Chops in Herb Wine Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 20 minutes to cook, so you’ll be enjoying your meal in about 35 minutes total. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear! Generously season both sides with salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and oregano—make sure to cover them well so every bite is flavorful!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the pork chops carefully, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
Now, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant (be careful not to burn it!). Then, sprinkle in the brown sugar and stir it into the garlic and pork drippings, letting it caramelize slightly.
4. Add the Liquids:
Carefully pour the white wine and chicken broth into the skillet, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any delicious browned bits. This adds great depth to your sauce!
5. Simmer the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let them simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This step will keep the chops juicy!
6. Finish the Sauce:
Once the chops are done, remove them to a plate and cover them with foil to keep warm. Increase the heat to medium and stir in the butter. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for a few minutes to thicken up a bit.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, spoon the delicious herb wine sauce over the pork chops, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately. Enjoy your tender pork chops with the sweet-savory sauce—a perfect treat for any night!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Brown Sugar Pork Chops in Herb Wine Sauce
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, boneless pork chops will work fine! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time down a bit, as they’ll cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for about 6-8 minutes of simmering time instead of 8-10 minutes.
What If I Don’t Have White Wine?
No worries! If you prefer not to use wine, simply replace it with an extra half-cup of chicken broth. This will still create a deliciously rich sauce for the pork chops!
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep them moist, or microwave them covered for a minute or two.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like green beans or broccoli during the last few minutes of simmering will not only enhance the meal’s flavor but also create a complete dish. Just be sure to cut them into smaller pieces to ensure they cook through in time.
