Slow Cooker Pork Chops: Tender, Juicy, and Effortless

Are you looking for a delicious and hassle-free dinner option? Look no further than slow cooker pork chops! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep time and the magic of slow cooking, you can enjoy tender, juicy pork chops that are bursting with flavor. In this article, we’ll guide you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, and more to ensure your slow cooker pork chops turn out perfectly every time.

Slow Cooker Pork Chops Ingredients

To make the best slow cooker pork chops, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Optional Vegetables:

• 2 cups sliced carrots
• 1 cup sliced onions
• 2 cups chopped potatoes

Slow Cooker Pork Chops: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 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, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Sear the Pork Chops: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step adds flavor and helps to lock in moisture.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

3. Combine the Sauce Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, thyme, and rosemary. This savory sauce will infuse the pork chops with incredible flavor as they cook.

Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

4. Layer the Ingredients: If using vegetables, place them at the bottom of the slow cooker. Then, add the seared pork chops on top.
5. Pour the Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture over the pork chops, ensuring they are well-coated.

Step 4: Slow Cook

6. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork chops should be tender and easily pull apart with a fork.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

7. Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the pork chops once cooked and set them aside. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce in the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until thickened.

Step 6: Serve

8. Serve: Return the pork chops to the slow cooker to coat them in the sauce. Serve hot with the vegetables and sauce drizzled over the top.

Slow Cooker Pork Chops: Cooking Tips

• Choosing the Right Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops tend to be juicier and more flavorful than boneless. However, both options work well in this recipe.
• Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the pork chops before slow cooking adds depth of flavor and a nice texture.
• Adjusting Cooking Time: If your pork chops are thicker than 1 inch, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
• Using Frozen Pork Chops: If you’re using frozen pork chops, you can still cook them in the slow cooker. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time.

Slow Cooker Pork Chops: Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Storage Advice

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked pork chops in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Slow Cooker Pork Chops Variations

• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil for a unique flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for some heat.
• Different Sauces: Try using barbecue sauce or a creamy mushroom sauce instead of the soy sauce mixture for a different taste.

Slow Cooker Pork Chops FAQ

Can I use other cuts of meat?

Yes! This recipe can also be adapted for chicken thighs or beef chuck roast. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What can I serve with slow cooker pork chops?

These pork chops pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with steamed vegetables or cornbread.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Now that you have the ultimate guide to making slow cooker pork chops, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This recipe is not only simple but also delivers a comforting and satisfying meal that your family will love. Don’t forget to share your results and variations in the comments below!