– **Title**: Instant Pot Pork Chops
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– **Instructions**:
1. Season both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Set the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode and add olive oil. Once hot, brown the pork chops on both sides, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze it.
4. Place the browned pork chops back into the Instant Pot, ensuring they lie in the liquid.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. After cooking, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
7. Carefully open the lid and verify the pork chops are cooked through (internal temperature should be 145°F/63°C).
8. Remove the pork chops and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
9. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with your choice of sides. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are juicy and flavorful, but boneless chops work too. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out easily.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is great for searing, but you can use vegetable oil or avocado oil if you prefer. They have higher smoke points.
Spices: Garlic and onion powders add depth. If you’re out of either, use fresh garlic or onion. Just chop them finely and use less, as they have more potency!
Chicken Broth: This gives a rich base. If you have vegetable broth or even water, those can work too in a pinch. Just remember, you might lose some flavor.
Potatoes: I like using medium potatoes, but feel free to substitute with sweet potatoes or other varieties. They all cook well and can be prepared the same way.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds a nice color and crunch. Cauliflower or green beans can also be delicious substitutes!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Searing on Pork Chops?
Searing gives pork chops a lovely crust and locks in juices. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by patting the pork chops dry; moisture will prevent browning.
- Heat your Instant Pot on sauté until it’s hot, but not smoking. Test by flicking water on it; if it dances, you’re ready!
- Add the olive oil and then gently place the pork chops in the pot, ensuring not to crowd them.
- Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Don’t rush this; good things take time!
This simple step enhances flavor, making every bite delightful. Enjoy your cooking!
Instant Pot Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
For Serving:
- 4 medium potatoes, scrubbed
- Fresh broccoli (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes seasoning and searing, followed by 8 minutes under pressure in the Instant Pot, plus a little extra time for prepping the potatoes and broccoli. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This will help them get a nice brown color later. Generously season both sides of the chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This step adds a lot of flavor!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Turn on the Instant Pot and set it to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, carefully add the pork chops and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until they’re nicely browned. Once done, take them out and set them aside for a moment.
3. Deglaze the Pot:
Now, pour the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce into the pot. This will help deglaze, or clean, the bottom of the pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom—these add tons of delicious flavor!
4. Pressure Cook:
Return the seared pork chops back to the Instant Pot. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. After the timer goes off, allow for a natural release of pressure for about 5 minutes, then carefully do a quick release for any remaining steam.
5. Make the Sauce:
Take out the pork chops and set them aside on a plate. Switch the Instant Pot back to sauté mode. Add the butter and stir it into the cooking liquid to create a simple sauce. Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary—it should be tasty!
6. Prepare the Potatoes:
While the pork chops are cooking, prep your potatoes. Using a fork, poke several holes in each potato to let steam escape. You can either microwave them for about 8-10 minutes or bake them in the oven until they’re tender. Once cooked, top them with butter, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve:
It’s time to serve your meal! Place the pork chops on plates and drizzle some of the sauce over them. Serve alongside your baked potatoes and some fresh steamed or sautéed broccoli. Enjoy your delicious and hearty meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-in?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless pork chops! Just reduce the cooking time to about 6 minutes on high pressure, as boneless chops cook faster than bone-in. Be sure to check for doneness with a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, you can use vegetable broth or beef broth for a different flavor. You could also use water, but consider adding extra seasonings like herbs or a bouillon cube for more depth.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the pork chops and any sides cool to room temperature, then transfer them into airtight containers. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the pork moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Instant Pot?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables, like carrots or green beans, to the pot along with the pork chops. Just chop them into uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly. If you prefer them a bit crisper, consider adding them during the last few minutes of cooking or steaming them on the side.
