If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying meal, slow cooker pork chops are the answer. This dish combines tender pork with savory flavors, making it perfect for a comforting family dinner. Just toss the ingredients in your slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you enjoy your day. Your taste buds will thank you for this easy and delicious recipe!
Ingredients
4 bone-in pork chops
1 cup chicken broth
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high in the slow cooker.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 pork chop with sauce) contains approximately 320 calories, 22g of protein, 5g of carbs, and 20g of fat. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.
- Remove chops and place them in the slow cooker.
- Add sliced onion and minced garlic over the pork chops.
- Pour chicken broth into the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle thyme and rosemary on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Once cooked, check for tenderness and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute pork chops with pork loin or boneless chicken thighs for a different flavor. For a low-sodium option, use low-sodium chicken broth instead of regular broth.
Serving and Pairings
Slow cooker pork chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or rice. For a fresh touch, serve with a side salad or roasted root vegetables.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pork chops can lead to dryness.
- Not seasoning adequately may result in bland flavors.
- Skipping the searing step can reduce flavor depth.
- Using lean cuts without enough fat might dry out the dish.
- Not letting the dish rest before serving can affect juiciness.
Helpful Tips
- Choose bone-in chops for more flavor and moisture.
- Marinate overnight for enhanced taste.
- Use fresh herbs for a vibrant flavor profile.
- Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the chops.
FAQs
How can I make my pork chops more flavorful?
Marinating the pork chops overnight or using a spice rub can enhance flavor significantly. Adding ingredients like mustard or brown sugar can also create a delicious glaze as they cook.
Can I cook frozen pork chops in a slow cooker?
It’s recommended to thaw pork chops before cooking in a slow cooker to ensure they cook evenly. Cooking from frozen can lead to uneven cooking and safety issues.
What sides go well with slow cooker pork chops?
Popular sides include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or rice. For a lighter option, a fresh salad or steamed broccoli works well too.
How do I know when my pork chops are done?
Pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for an accurate reading.
Can I cook pork chops on high instead of low?
Yes, you can cook pork chops on high for about 3 hours. However, cooking on low for 6 hours yields more tender and flavorful results.
Conclusion
Slow cooker pork chops are a fantastic way to prepare a comforting meal with minimal effort. The combination of tender meat and savory flavors makes this dish a family favorite. Try this recipe for a hassle-free dinner that everyone will love!
Slow Cooker Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 onion sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.
- Remove chops and place them in the slow cooker.
- Add sliced onion and minced garlic over the pork chops.
- Pour chicken broth into the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle thyme and rosemary on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Once cooked, check for tenderness and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Nutrition
