Have you ever had one of those days where you just crave something rich and comforting, like a warm hug in food form? That’s where these Instant Pot boneless pork chops come in. They’re smothered in a creamy gravy that brings back memories of Sunday dinners at grandma’s, yet they’re ready in a fraction of the time—perfect for when life feels like it’s speeding by faster than a TikTok trend.
Steps
- Combine the spices with brown sugar and apply the mixture evenly to both sides of the pork chops.
- Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function on high and melt butter in the pot. Once the butter is hot, place the pork chops in the pot and sear each side for 1-2 minutes until browned. Remove the pork chops and cancel the sauté setting.
- Pour in chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape and deglaze the pot’s bottom. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and Liquid Smoke, then place the pork chops back in the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the vent to the sealing position. Select the pressure cook (manual) function and cook for 7 minutes. Once completed, let the pressure release naturally for 12 minutes before opening the lid.
- Take out the pork chops and allow them to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless pork chops, 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Liquid Smoke
FAQ
- What thickness should the pork chops be for optimal results in the Instant Pot?
- The pork chops should be one inch thick for the best results when using an Instant Pot. This thickness is easy to find at grocery stores and is ideal for pressure cooking.
- What is the purpose of deglazing the Instant Pot after browning the pork chops?
- Deglazing involves adding liquid, such as chicken broth, to the pot and scraping off the browned bits from the bottom. This enhances the flavor of the dish and prevents the Instant Pot from displaying a burn warning.
- How long should the pork chops be pressure cooked in the Instant Pot?
- The pork chops should be pressure cooked for 7 minutes, followed by a natural release for 12 minutes. This ensures that the pork chops remain juicy and tender.
- Is it necessary to brine the pork chops before cooking them in the Instant Pot?
- While not mandatory, it is recommended to use brined pork chops for the best results. If the pork chops are not pre-brined, you can use a simple brine solution to enhance moisture and tenderness.
- What should be done immediately after pressure cooking the pork chops in the Instant Pot?
- After pressure cooking, allow the pork chops to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps to redistribute the juices within the meat, ensuring maximum tenderness.
Tips
- Choose the Right Thickness: Opt for pork chops that are about one inch thick. This thickness is ideal for pressure cooking and ensures the meat remains tender and juicy.
- Brown for Flavor: Before pressure cooking, take the time to brown the pork chops on both sides using the sauté function of your Instant Pot. This step enhances the flavor and adds a beautiful golden crust.
- Deglaze the Pot: After browning, deglaze the pot with chicken broth by scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon. This helps incorporate all the flavorful bits into the cooking liquid.
- Consider Brining: If your pork chops aren’t pre-brined, consider a quick brine using ¼ cup salt to 1 quart of water for at least 30 minutes. This step can significantly enhance the moisture and tenderness of the meat.
Equipment
- Instant Pot (or a similar electric pressure cooker)
- Wooden Spoon (for deglazing the pot)
