Name: Easy 30 Minute Brown Sugar Pork Chops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless pork chops (1 inch thick); ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed; 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon water; Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

If you're craving a dinner that's big on flavor and requires barely any effort, these Easy 30 Minute Brown Sugar Pork Chops are absolutely dreamy! Each bite is juicy and tender, smothered in a glossy brown sugar glaze that's bursting with sweet, garlicky, and savory notes.

This recipe is a must-try for any busy cook. You'll only need one skillet, a handful of pantry ingredients, and half an hour of your time. The pork chops caramelize beautifully under the sticky glaze, making them a weeknight winner the whole family will beg for.

Whether you're rushing to get dinner on the table or simply want to impress with minimal fuss, these pork chops fit the bill. Sweet, satisfying, and so simple-once you try them, they'll earn a regular spot in your kitchen rotation!

Juicy, glazed pork chops on a white plate with fresh herbs

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Ready in 30 minutes with just one pan-perfect for busy nights
Delivers restaurant-worthy flavor with basic pantry staples
The brown sugar glaze creates an irresistibly sticky, savory-sweet coating
Pork chops turn out juicy, never dry or tough

Key Ingredients for Easy 30 Minute Brown Sugar Pork Chops

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Boneless Pork Chops

Boneless pork chops are the star of this dish, providing the perfect canvas for the sticky, sweet glaze. Look for pork chops that are about 1 inch thick so they stay juicy when seared and finished in the sauce. If you prefer bone-in chops, those work great too-just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time for best results.

Brown Sugar

Brown sugar is what gives the glaze its signature sweetness and caramelized crust. Light or dark brown sugar both work well (dark brown will add an extra molasses note). Make sure to pack it firmly into your measuring cup for the right amount, and if needed, white sugar with a dash of molasses is a good substitute.

Garlic

Fresh garlic adds warmth and depth to balance the sweetness of the brown sugar. Mince it finely so it melts seamlessly into the sauce. Don't have fresh garlic? Substitute with ¾ teaspoon garlic powder in a pinch.

Soy Sauce

A splash of soy sauce brings savory umami and a touch of saltiness to the glaze. Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the salt levels. If you're gluten-free, tamari works as a perfect swap.

Dijon Mustard

Dijon mustard blends into the glaze to add a subtle tang and complexity. It helps cut through the richness of the pork. You could also use yellow or spicy brown mustard if that's all you have on hand, though Dijon's mildness is best for balance.

Easy 30 Minute Brown Sugar Pork Chops cooking process

Instructions for Easy 30 Minute Brown Sugar Pork Chops

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Season and Prep the Pork Chops

Pat pork chops dry with paper towels, then season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This base seasoning enhances the flavor and helps create a beautiful crust when cooking.

Sear the Pork Chops

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add pork chops in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until the chops develop a golden brown crust. Remove chops from the pan and set aside-they'll finish cooking in the sauce.

Make the Brown Sugar Glaze

Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add garlic to the pan and cook for 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Stir in the brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and water. Cook for 1-2 minutes, letting the ingredients meld and the glaze begin to bubble.

Simmer Pork Chops in the Sauce

Return the seared pork chops (and any juices) to the skillet. Spoon the glaze over the top of each chop, then cover and simmer for 5-7 minutes, turning chops halfway through, until they're cooked through (internal temp of 145°F/63°C). The sauce will thicken and coat the chops beautifully.

Finish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat. Let the pork chops rest for 2-3 minutes in the pan to let juices redistribute. Spoon any extra glaze over the chops and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Recipe Variations

Give It a Kick

Add a half teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a squirt of Sriracha to the glaze for a sweet-and-spicy version that really wakes up your taste buds!

Make It Gluten-Free

Swap out regular soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to keep this recipe completely gluten-free. Always double-check your mustard label, too.

Try Bone-In Chops

Bone-in pork chops work beautifully for this recipe and offer even more flavor. Just increase the simmering time by 2-3 minutes to ensure they're cooked through.

Citrus Twist

Add a tablespoon of fresh orange or pineapple juice to the glaze for a bright, tangy finish that elevates the sweetness without overpowering the dish.

Add Veggies

Toss in some quick-cooking veggies like thinly sliced bell peppers or baby spinach after you make the glaze. They'll soak up all that saucy goodness and make your meal more complete.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these sweet and savory pork chops with fluffy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or buttery corn on the cob for a comforting, hearty meal. For an extra pop of freshness, sprinkle with chopped parsley or even a touch of finely sliced green onion before serving.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pork chops in a covered skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or extra glaze until heated through. You can also microwave in short bursts, but be careful not to overcook. These pork chops freeze well, too: let them cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Easy 30 Minute Brown Sugar Pork Chops (FAQ)

Q: Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?

A: Absolutely! Just add a couple more minutes to the simmering time to ensure they're fully cooked through.

Q: Will this work with other proteins, like chicken?

A: Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs swap in perfectly. Adjust cook time as needed based on thickness.

Q: How do I know when pork chops are done?

A: Pork chops are safe to eat when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Resting them for a few minutes helps stay juicy.

Craving a quick, crowd-pleasing dinner? These Easy 30 Minute Brown Sugar Pork Chops never disappoint! They're sweet, savory, tender, and packed with flavor. Try them tonight, and don't forget to leave a comment or rating to let me know how they turned out in your kitchen!