Crockpot pork chops are the easiest way to enjoy juicy and tender meat. You just pop them in the slow cooker with your favorite seasonings and let the magic happen!
What’s even better? You can set it and forget it! While it cooks, you can relax or even binge-watch your favorite show. It’s a win-win! 😄
I love serving these pork chops with mashed potatoes or rice so they can soak up all the yummy juices. It’s a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug! 💛
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless pork chops will work too, just adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Chicken Broth: You can use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake. Homemade broth adds extra love!
Soy Sauce: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, tamari is an excellent substitute. Coconut aminos are another alternative for a sweeter taste.
Worcestershire Sauce: For a similar flavor without the anchovies, opt for soy sauce mixed with a bit of vinegar or lemon juice.
Thyme: If you don’t have thyme, rosemary or oregano can make a good replacement. Fresh herbs add a wonderful aroma!
How Do I Get My Pork Chops to be Tender?
The secret to tender pork chops lies in cooking them low and slow! Here’s how to achieve that perfect tenderness:
- Start by seasoning the chops well to enhance their flavor.
- Searing them in a hot skillet creates a nice crust and locks in moisture, and it only takes a couple of minutes on each side.
- Cook in the crockpot on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. Low heat breaks down the fibers beautifully.
- Remember to let them rest before serving, which helps keep them juicy!
With these tips, you’ll have deliciously tender pork chops that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking! 🍽️
How to Make Crockpot Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus a slow cooking time of 6-7 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH in the crockpot. Just set it and forget it while you let those flavors meld together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops on both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Make sure to give them a good rub of seasoning for maximum flavor!
2. Searing the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they have a lovely golden-brown crust. Once done, remove the chops and set them aside.
3. Sautéing Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onions become soft and the garlic is fragrant. This will add a wonderful base flavor to your dish!
4. Setting Up the Crockpot:
Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to your crockpot. Then, layer the seared pork chops on top of the onions.
5. Mixing in the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Whisk it all together until well mixed, then pour this delicious mixture over the pork chops in the crockpot.
6. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook. If you’re cooking on LOW, let it cook for 6-7 hours. For HIGH, let it go for 3-4 hours. The pork chops are done when they are tender and fully cooked through.
7. Thickening the Sauce:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, carefully remove the pork chops and set them aside. In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the crockpot liquid, then switch the crockpot to HIGH. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, or until the sauce thickens nicely.
8. Serving the Dish:
Pour that thickened sauce over the pork chops and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs, if you like. This adds a lovely touch of freshness!
9. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve the delicious pork chops hot, preferably with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up all the flavorful gravy. Enjoy your tender and juicy crockpot meal!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops in This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed pork chops for this recipe to ensure even cooking. If you only have frozen chops, be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before starting. This helps the meat cook evenly and stay tender.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Searing the Pork Chops First?
While searing adds a delicious crust and flavor to the meat, you can skip this step if you’re short on time. Just place the seasoned chops directly in the crockpot, but keep in mind they may lack that extra depth of flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you need a gluten-free option, tamari is a great choice. You can also use coconut aminos for a sweeter flavor or make your own substitute by mixing equal parts balsamic vinegar and beef broth for a similar taste profile.