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Smoky Brown Sugar Bourbon Pork Chops – Easy 30-Minute Dinner

Smoky brown sugar bourbon pork chops - featured image
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These smoky brown sugar bourbon pork chops are a quick and easy 30-minute dinner that tastes like it took hours. With a caramelized crust and a sticky-sweet glaze, they’re perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
  • 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (avocado or canola)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup bourbon (mid-range, like Buffalo Trace or Maker’s Mark)
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Mix the dry rub in a small bowl: brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne (if using). Stir until combined.
  3. Sprinkle the rub evenly over both sides of the pork chops. Pat it in gently. Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  4. Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and just starting to smoke.
  5. Carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Do not crowd them. Sear undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until a crust forms.
  6. Flip the chops using tongs. Sear the other side for 3-4 minutes. Internal temperature should be around 135-140°F (57-60°C).
  7. Remove the chops to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
  8. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, pour in 1/4 cup bourbon and 1/4 cup chicken broth. Stir, scraping up browned bits. Let bubble and reduce for 2-3 minutes until syrupy.
  9. Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning glaze over the top. Warm through for 1 minute until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  10. Serve immediately with extra glaze spooned on top. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

Don’t skip resting the chops after seasoning. The pan must be hot for a good sear. Watch the sugar to prevent burning. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. Deglaze immediately after removing chops. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute bourbon with apple juice or broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork chops, bourbon, brown sugar, smoked paprika, 30-minute dinner, weeknight dinner, cast iron skillet

Find it online: https://fizzlefork.com/smoky-brown-sugar-bourbon-pork-chops-easy-30-minute-dinner/