These Instant Pot pork chops are juicy and tender, cooked with ease in your handy gadget. Perfect for a quick dinner, they’re packed with flavor and save you time!
I love that I can have a delicious meal ready so fast! Plus, who can resist a one-pot dish? Less mess means more time for me to relax. Bring on the easy cooking! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops are great for this dish, but you can also use bone-in chops for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using pork loin or tenderloin instead.
Olive Oil: This is perfect for searing. If you’re out, feel free to use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even butter for a richer taste.
Chicken Broth: You can swap in vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist, or even a homemade broth for added flavor. Just watch the sodium if you’re using store-bought options!
Seasonings: The thyme and paprika can be adjusted based on your taste. Rosemary or Italian seasoning also works if that’s what you have on hand.
Cornstarch: If you need a substitute, arrowroot powder is a great option to thicken the sauce. Just mix it similarly with water.
How Do I Get Perfectly Sear My Pork Chops?
Searing your pork chops is key to a lovely crispy outer layer and enhancing their flavor. Here’s how to get it right:
- Make sure your Instant Pot is hot before adding the oil and pork. This helps create a nice browning effect.
- Don’t crowd the pot. If your chops are large, sear them in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side. Avoid flipping them too soon for the best results!
With these tips, your pork chops will turn out tender and full of flavor every time!
How to Make Instant Pot Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and then 20 minutes in the Instant Pot. It’s a quick and easy way to get a hearty dinner on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better. Then, generously season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme. This adds great flavor right from the start!
2. Searing the Chops:
Turn on the Instant Pot and set it to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add the olive oil and let it heat up for a minute. Once hot, add the seasoned pork chops and sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until they’re nicely browned. This step locks in the juices. After browning, remove the pork chops and set them aside on a plate.
3. Making the Flavorful Base:
Add the minced garlic to the same pot and sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell that lovely garlic aroma. Then, pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to deglaze it, loosening any browned bits. This adds fantastic flavor to your sauce!
4. Pressure Cooking:
Return the seared pork chops to the Instant Pot, nestling them into the liquid. Cancel the ‘Sauté’ mode, secure the lid, and set the Instant Pot to ‘Pressure Cook’ (or Manual) on high for 8 minutes.
5. Quick Release and Rest:
When the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure—be cautious of the steam! Once it’s safe to do so, remove the pork chops and place them on a plate. Cover them loosely with foil to keep warm while you finish the sauce.
6. Thickening the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water together to create a slurry. Then, set the Instant Pot back to ‘Sauté’ mode and stir in the cornstarch slurry to the cooking liquid. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens up nicely.
7. Final Touches:
Pour the thickened sauce over the pork chops and garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your juicy Instant Pot pork chops hot with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Using frozen pork chops is definitely possible, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Instead of 8 minutes, set the Instant Pot to cook for 12 minutes and ensure they have a proper internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) after cooking.
Can I Substitute the Soy Sauce?
Yes! If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can use tamari or coconut aminos. For a different flavor profile, try using teriyaki sauce or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or warm on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork chops and sauce in advance, then just reheat everything together when you’re ready to serve. This saves time and makes for an easy weeknight meal!
