If you’re looking for an easy yet flavor-packed meal, these Brown Sugar Pineapple Pork Chops are a must-try. The perfect balance of sweet and savory, this dish brings together the richness of pork chops with the caramelized goodness of brown sugar and pineapple. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – Ready in under 30 minutes, this is a fantastic meal for busy weeknights.
• Minimal Ingredients – Uses pantry staples and simple ingredients.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavor – The sweetness of brown sugar and pineapple pairs beautifully with the savory pork chops.
• Versatile – Works with bone-in or boneless pork chops.

Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices, juice reserved
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Tongs
• Small mixing bowl
• Spoon for basting
• Meat thermometer

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork Chops

1. Season the pork chops – Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Heat the oil – In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the pork chops – Add the pork chops to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.

2. Make the Pineapple Sauce

1. Melt the butter – Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet.
2. Add the brown sugar – Stir until dissolved.
3. Caramelize the pineapple – Add the pineapple slices and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side.
4. Create the sauce – Stir in the reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

3. Cook the Pork Chops

1. Return the pork chops – Nestle them between the pineapple slices in the skillet.
2. Simmer – Spoon some sauce over the pork chops. Cover and let simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
3. Rest and Serve – Let rest for 5 minutes. Serve topped with caramelized pineapple slices and drizzled with sauce.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

• Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Honey Instead of Brown Sugar: Swap brown sugar for 3 tablespoons of honey for a different sweetness profile.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Grilled Version: Instead of using a skillet, grill the pork chops and pineapple slices separately, then glaze them with the sauce.

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: Place cooked pork chops in a freezer-safe container with sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or pineapple juice to keep the meat moist.

What to Serve with Brown Sugar Pineapple Pork Chops

Pair this dish with sides that complement its sweet and savory flavors:

• Rice: White or brown rice absorbs the sauce beautifully.
• Mashed Potatoes: A creamy and comforting option.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots work well.
• Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.

FAQ

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? Yes! Just slice fresh pineapple and substitute it for the canned version. Use 1/2 cup of pineapple juice instead of the reserved canned juice.

Q: How do I prevent pork chops from drying out? Don’t overcook them! Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), then let them rest before serving.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? Yes! Sear the pork chops first, then place them in a slow cooker with the sauce and cook on low for 4-5 hours.

Q: Can I use chicken instead of pork? Absolutely! Boneless chicken breasts or thighs work well with the same method and flavors.

Final Thoughts

These Brown Sugar Pineapple Pork Chops are an effortless way to bring a restaurant-quality dish to your home kitchen. With a simple ingredient list and quick preparation, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

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