Juicy and Tender Crock Pot Pork Chops: A Simple Recipe for Weeknight Dinners
Are you looking for a simple yet delicious weeknight dinner recipe? Look no further! This crock pot pork chop recipe is easy to follow and produces incredibly juicy and tender pork chops every time. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal prep time and cleanup. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops: About 1 inch thick. Bone-in chops retain moisture better.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the pork chops (optional, but recommended).
- 1 teaspoon salt: To season the pork chops.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: To season the pork chops.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Provides moisture and flavor in the crock pot.
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar: Adds a delightful tanginess.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances the acidity of the vinegar and adds a touch of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth to the flavor profile.
- Optional additions: Consider adding things like chopped onions, garlic cloves, or your favorite herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor complexity.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sear the Pork Chops (Optional): For extra flavor and a nice crust, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for about 1-2 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it significantly enhances the final product.
- Place in Crock Pot: Place the seared (or unseared) pork chops in your crock pot.
- Combine the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour Over Pork Chops: Pour the sauce over the pork chops in the crock pot.
- Cook on Low: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are cooked through and easily shred with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Serve: Serve the pork chops with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. The sauce from the crock pot makes an excellent gravy!
Tips for Extra Flavor and Tenderness:
- Don't overcrowd the crock pot: Ensure there's enough space between the pork chops to allow for even cooking.
- Use bone-in pork chops: Bone-in chops tend to stay more moist during the slow cooking process.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and other seasonings to suit your preferences.
- Thicker chops require longer cooking time: Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of your pork chops.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use boneless pork chops?
A: Yes, you can use boneless pork chops, but they may dry out more easily than bone-in chops. Reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking.
Q: Can I freeze leftover pork chops?
A: Yes, leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Q: What are some other ways to serve these crock pot pork chops?
A: These pork chops are incredibly versatile! Try them in sandwiches, tacos, or salads.
This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The slow cooking method results in incredibly tender and flavorful pork chops that are perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Enjoy!
