Delicious Brown Sugar Chops

Sweet, savory, and perfectly caramelized—these brown sugar pork chops are quick enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests.

Ingredients

4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp brown sugar (light or dark)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika (smoked or regular)
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp dried thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tbsp butter (for finishing)

Instructions

1. Season the Chops

Pat pork chops dry with paper towels.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and thyme.
Rub brown sugar evenly over both sides of each chop.

2. Sear

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Place chops in the hot pan and cook 4–5 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until nicely caramelized.

3. Finish

Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter to the pan and spoon melted butter over the chops for 1–2 minutes.
Cook until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

4. Rest & Serve

Remove from heat and let rest 5 minutes before serving to keep them juicy.

Optional Add-Ons

Add sliced apples to the skillet for a sweet-savory combo
Splash in a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar for balance
Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving

If you’d like, I can also provide an oven-baked or air fryer version.