Pan fried pork chops with sweet BBQ sauce are a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dining table. This recipe combines the succulent tenderness of pork chops with the rich, tangy sweetness of BBQ sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making this delicious recipe, provide tips and variations, and share nutritional information.
Ingredients
To prepare pan fried pork chops with sweet BBQ sauce, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce (or your favorite BBQ sauce)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
- Marinate the Pork Chops: In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well. Add the pork chops to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
Step 2: Cook the Pork Chops
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Pan Fry the Pork Chops: Remove the pork chops from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the pork chops in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F).
- Add BBQ Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Brush the remaining BBQ sauce over the pork chops, covering them generously. Let the pork chops cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, turning them once, until the BBQ sauce is caramelized and sticky.
Step 3: Serve
- Serve the Pork Chops: Transfer the pork chops to a serving platter. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables.
Tips and Variations
Cooking Tips
- Avoid Overcooking: Pork chops can become dry if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the correct internal temperature of 145°F.
- Marinating Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the pork chops overnight. If short on time, marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Even Cooking: Make sure the pork chops are of even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
Variations
- Oven-Baked: If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 375°F. After marinating, place the pork chops on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, brushing with BBQ sauce halfway through cooking.
- Air Fryer: For a healthier version, cook the marinated pork chops in an air fryer at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway and brushing with additional BBQ sauce.
- Grilled: Grill the pork chops over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of grilling.
Substitutions
- Sweeteners: Substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
- BBQ Sauce: Use homemade BBQ sauce or different brands like Sweet Baby Ray’s for varied flavors.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 15g
Conclusion
Pan fried pork chops with sweet BBQ sauce are a delicious and versatile dish that can be prepared in various ways to suit your taste and cooking preferences. Whether you pan fry, bake, or use an air fryer, this recipe ensures tender and flavorful pork chops every time. The combination of juicy pork and sweet, tangy BBQ sauce is a match made in culinary heaven.