Go Back
A macro shot of four baked Brown Sugar Pork Chops on a rustic ceramic platter, showcasing their juicy texture and rich, glossy glaze.

Brown Sugar Pork Chops: A Juicy, Caramelized Masterpiece

This easy recipe for Brown Sugar Pork Chops delivers a show-stopping meal with a rich, caramelized glaze. Learn the secret to perfectly juicy, thick-cut baked pork chops that are perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Print Recipe Pin for Later
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 410
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 thick-cut, bone-in pork chops (about 1.5 inches thick)
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) avocado oil or other high-smoke-point oil
  • 1 tsp (6g) kosher salt to taste
  • 1/2 tsp (1g) black pepper freshly ground, to taste
  • 1/2 cup (110g) dark brown sugar packed
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp (3g) garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp (1.5g) onion powder
  • 2 tbsp (8g) fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 Large Oven-Safe Skillet 12-inch cast iron or stainless steel recommended
  • 1 Instant-Read Thermometer For checking doneness
  • 1 Tongs
  • 1 Basting Brush

Method
 

Recipe Steps
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat pork chops dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chops for 3-4 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms.
  2. While chops sear, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl until combined.
  3. Remove skillet from heat. Brush half of the glaze over the tops of the pork chops. Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 6 minutes.
  4. Brush the remaining glaze over the chops. Continue to bake for another 6-8 minutes, until an instant-read thermometer reads 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part.
  5. Transfer the pork chops to a platter and let them rest for 5-7 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Don't Crowd the Pan: Sear in batches if necessary to ensure a proper crust.
Temper Your Meat: Let pork chops sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before cooking for a more even result.
Trust the Thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your pork is cooked to a safe and juicy 145°F (63°C).
Resting is Required: Do not skip the resting step, as it's crucial for juicy pork chops.