Irresistibly Juicy Stovetop BBQ Pork Chops: A Quick & Easy Skillet Recipe
Prepare to delight your taste buds with these incredibly simple yet profoundly flavorful stovetop BBQ pork chops. Crafted with succulent boneless pork chops and simmered in a rich, easy-to-make homemade barbecue sauce, this recipe promises a truly satisfying meal that comes together quickly in just one skillet. It’s the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you crave a hearty, comforting dish without the fuss of firing up the grill.
Barbecue pork chops are a timeless favorite, celebrated for their harmonious blend of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors. This particular rendition captures that classic BBQ taste beautifully, making it an ideal choice for a casual family dinner, an impromptu backyard gathering, or whenever that unmistakable craving for barbecue strikes. We utilize tender, half-inch thick boneless pork chops to ensure swift and even cooking, delivering a deliciously moist and flavorful result every time.
These delightful BBQ pork chops are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes, making meal planning a breeze. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or simply feeding a hungry family, consider serving them alongside classic comforts like creamy mashed potatoes, wholesome roasted vegetables, vibrant green beans, or a rich broccoli rice casserole. For a touch of indulgence, mac and cheese is always a hit, while baked beans or a refreshing crunchy slaw offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Each bite of these tender, sauce-coated chops will leave you wanting more!
If you’re a fan of succulent pork chop recipes, don’t miss out on my other favorites like the savory French Onion Pork Chops or the rich and creamy Creamy Garlic Pork Chops, both designed to bring maximum flavor to your table.
Recipe Highlights: Why You’ll Love These BBQ Pork Chops
- Quick and Easy Dinner Solution: This recipe is a true lifesaver for busy individuals and families. From the moment you start prepping to the instant it hits your plate, this meal is ready in just about 25 minutes. The use of boneless pork chops ensures fast, even cooking, allowing you to whip up something delicious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Delicious Homemade BBQ Sauce: Forget store-bought! The star of this dish is its unbelievably simple yet flavor-packed homemade barbecue sauce. It’s a harmonious blend of pantry staples: tangy ketchup, rich brown sugar, savory Worcestershire sauce, bright apple cider vinegar, and a thoughtful medley of seasonings. This sauce coats the pork chops beautifully, creating a sticky, caramelized glaze that’s utterly irresistible.
- Made with Simple, Accessible Ingredients: You’ll appreciate how convenient this recipe is. Most of the ingredients needed for these stovetop BBQ pork chops are likely already lurking in your pantry or fridge. This makes it a cost-effective and convenient meal option, proving that gourmet flavors don’t require obscure or expensive components.
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Essential Ingredients for Perfect BBQ Pork Chops
For the Pork Chops:
- Boneless pork chops: Opt for boneless chops that are approximately ½-inch thick. This uniform thickness is crucial for quick and even cooking, ensuring each chop is tender and juicy, not dry. Boneless cuts are also easier to eat and ideal for pan-searing.
- Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper: This blend of classic seasonings forms a simple yet effective dry rub. Garlic and onion powder provide a foundational savory base, paprika adds a touch of color and subtle sweetness, while salt and pepper enhance all the natural flavors of the pork.
- Olive oil: Used for searing the pork chops, olive oil helps create a beautiful golden-brown crust, locking in moisture and adding a rich flavor to the surface of the meat.
For the Barbecue Sauce:
- Ketchup: The backbone of any good BBQ sauce, ketchup provides a balanced sweet and tangy base. Its rich tomato flavor is essential for that classic barbecue taste.
- Brown sugar: This ingredient is key for imparting a deep sweetness and contributing to the sauce’s desirable sticky, caramelized texture. It also helps balance the acidity from the vinegar.
- Apple cider vinegar: A crucial component, apple cider vinegar introduces a bright, tangy acidity that cuts through the sweetness and fat, elevating the overall barbecue flavor profile.
- Worcestershire sauce: This dark, savory condiment adds a complex layer of umami, depth, and a subtle spice, making the barbecue sauce incredibly rich and well-rounded.
- Dijon mustard: Just a touch of Dijon mustard brings a subtle tanginess and a slight peppery kick, enhancing the sauce’s complexity without overpowering other flavors.
- Garlic powder: Reinforces the savory notes in the barbecue sauce, complementing the spices used on the pork chops for a cohesive flavor.
- Onion powder: Adds another layer of sweet, aromatic depth to the sauce, harmonizing with the other ingredients to create that signature BBQ taste.
- Cornstarch: This is our secret weapon for achieving a perfectly thick, smooth, and clingy sauce that coats the pork chops beautifully.
- Water (cold): Essential for dissolving the cornstarch to create a smooth slurry, preventing lumps when added to the simmering sauce. Cold water ensures the cornstarch activates properly for thickening.
Refer to the detailed recipe card below for exact quantities.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create delicious stovetop BBQ pork chops. The process shots below will guide you through each stage, ensuring a perfect result. (Note: Detailed process shots are kept separate from the concise recipe card for clarity.)
Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning Rub. In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This dry rub will infuse your pork chops with incredible flavor.
Step 2: Season the Pork Chops. Pat your boneless pork chops completely dry using paper towels. This crucial step helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes a superior sear. Generously rub the seasoning mixture over all sides of each pork chop, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the seasoned pork chops to the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust and are nearly cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for just shy of 145°F (62.8 °C) at this stage, as they will finish cooking in the sauce. If the chops are browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium.
Step 4: Prepare the Homemade BBQ Sauce. While the pork chops are searing, combine all the barbecue sauce ingredients (ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder) in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce. In a separate small bowl or mug, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a smooth slurry. Gradually whisk this slurry into the simmering barbecue sauce. Continue to stir gently over medium-low heat for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat.
Step 6: Coat and Finish Cooking. Once your pork chops are beautifully golden-brown on both sides, reduce the heat in the skillet to medium-low. Pour the luscious, thickened barbecue sauce evenly over the chops. Use a basting brush to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated in the sticky, flavorful glaze. Continue to simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the pork to absorb the sauce’s flavors and reach a safe internal temperature of 145°F (62.8 °C).
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and allow the pork chops to rest for 3-5 minutes. This resting period is essential as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each chop remains incredibly tender and juicy when served.
Serve these delectable BBQ pork chops hot with your favorite accompaniments like fluffy mashed potatoes, vibrant roasted asparagus, tender green beans, a rich mac and cheese, sweet corn on the cob, or a crisp, refreshing side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Easy Substitutions for Your Ingredients
Life happens, and sometimes you don’t have every ingredient on hand. Here are some simple substitutions you can make without compromising too much on flavor:
- Pork Chops: While boneless chops are fantastic for their quick cooking time, you can absolutely use bone-in pork chops for an even richer flavor. Just be aware that bone-in cuts typically require a slightly longer cooking time to reach the proper internal temperature. Always use a reliable meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked perfectly.
- Ketchup: If your ketchup bottle is unexpectedly empty, a mixture of tomato paste with a little water and a touch of sugar can mimic its flavor and consistency. Alternatively, for ultimate convenience, feel free to skip the homemade sauce entirely and use your favorite high-quality store-bought barbecue sauce.
- Brown Sugar: No brown sugar? No problem! Granulated white sugar can be used as a direct substitute, though it might offer a slightly less complex sweetness. Honey or maple syrup are also excellent alternatives that will lend a deeper, more nuanced sweetness and rich flavor to your sauce.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: White vinegar or red wine vinegar can step in for apple cider vinegar. Keep in mind that each will impart a slightly different tang and flavor profile to the sauce, so choose based on your preference.
- Worcestershire Sauce: For that signature savory, umami punch, if Worcestershire sauce isn’t available, soy sauce or tamari can be used. They will contribute a similar salty depth, though without the exact spice blend of Worcestershire.
Exciting Variations to Try
Get creative with your stovetop pork chops! These variations offer new flavor experiences while keeping the cooking process straightforward:
- Honey Garlic Pork Chops: Transform this dish by swapping the barbecue sauce for a sticky, sweet, and savory honey-garlic glaze. Combine honey, minced fresh garlic (or garlic powder), soy sauce, and a splash of rice vinegar. Simmer until thickened, then coat your seared pork chops. This variation is incredibly popular and complements pork beautifully.
- Spicy BBQ Pork Chops: If you love a little heat, easily turn up the spice factor. Simply add a generous dash of your favorite hot sauce, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a touch of smoked paprika with a kick to your homemade barbecue sauce. Adjust the amount to your preferred level of heat for a fiery twist that’s sure to awaken your palate.
Recommended Equipment for Success
Having the right tools can make all the difference in the kitchen, especially when striving for perfectly cooked pork chops. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large skillet: A spacious skillet, preferably cast iron or another heavy-bottomed pan with high sidewalls, is essential. It provides ample surface area for searing the pork chops evenly and contains the delicious BBQ sauce without spills.
- Small saucepan: Perfect for simmering and thickening the homemade barbecue sauce. Its smaller size allows for better control over the heat and consistency.
- Whisk: Indispensable for creating a smooth, lump-free cornstarch slurry and ensuring your barbecue sauce achieves a perfectly silky texture.
- Meat thermometer: While not explicitly linked, a good quality instant-read meat thermometer is vital for cooking pork to the safe and juicy internal temperature of 145°F (62.8 °C), preventing overcooking and dryness.
Storing and Reheating Your BBQ Pork Chops
Proper storage is essential to keep your delicious BBQ pork chops fresh and safe to enjoy later. Here’s how:
Refrigeration: Allow the cooked pork chops to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Stored this way, they will remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes them perfect for meal prepping!
Freezing: For longer storage, you can easily freeze these pork chops. Place them in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring as much air is removed as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the pork chops overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, the best methods will help retain moisture. You can gently warm them in an oven preheated to 300°F (150°C) until heated through, typically about 15-20 minutes, or reheat them on the stovetop in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or a little extra BBQ sauce to keep them moist and prevent drying out. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can quickly dry out the pork chops and affect their texture.
Expert Tips for the Best Stovetop BBQ Pork Chops
- Pat the Pork Chops Thoroughly Dry: This might seem like a small step, but it’s incredibly important. Before applying any seasoning, use paper towels to remove all excess moisture from the surface of your pork chops. A dry surface allows the seasoning rub to adhere better and, more importantly, facilitates a beautiful, flavorful sear (the Maillard reaction) rather than steaming the meat.
- Monitor Cooking Time with a Thermometer: Overcooked pork chops are notoriously dry and unappetizing. Since cooking times can vary based on chop thickness and stove heat, always use an instant-read meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (62.8 °C). Remove the chops from the heat as soon as they reach this temperature, as they will continue to cook slightly from residual heat. This ensures maximum juiciness and tenderness.
- Allow the Pork Chops to Rest: After cooking, patience is a virtue. Transfer the pork chops to a cutting board and let them rest for at least 3-5 minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the internal juices, which have moved to the center of the meat during cooking, to redistribute throughout the entire chop. The result is consistently tender, moist, and flavorful pork.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When searing, cook the pork chops in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the skillet will lower the pan’s temperature, leading to steaming rather than searing. This prevents the formation of that delicious crust and can result in less flavorful chops.
Delicious Side Dishes to Complete Your Meal
These Stovetop BBQ Pork Chops are a star on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can elevate your meal to perfection. Here are some fantastic options:
- No-Boil Mac and Cheese
- Crockpot Broccoli Rice Casserole
- Green Bean Casserole with Bacon
- Creamy Jalapeño Corn Casserole
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Stovetop BBQ Pork Chops
Equipment
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Large skillet
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Small saucepan
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Whisk
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops:
- 6 boneless pork chops about ½-inch thick
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Barbecue Sauce:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
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Mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season all sides with the dry rub.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until they are brown and nearly cooked through. Use a meat thermometer and cook the chops to just shy of 145°F (62.8 °C). If the pork chops brown too quickly, reduce to medium heat.
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Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine all barbecue sauce ingredients except cornstarch and water. Simmer over medium-low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Mix cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl or mug to make a slurry. Slowly whisk the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce until it thickens, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.
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Once the pork chops are golden on both sides, reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour the thickened barbecue sauce over the pork chops in the skillet, using a basting brush to evenly coat the chops. Simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (62.8 °C). Allow the pork chops to rest off the heat for 3-5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Important Food Safety Guidelines
Ensuring food safety is paramount when cooking any meat, and pork is no exception. Follow these guidelines to prepare and store your stovetop BBQ pork chops safely:
- Cook to the Correct Temperature: Always use a reliable meat thermometer to ensure your pork chops reach a minimum internal temperature of 145°F (62.8°C). This temperature is crucial for eliminating harmful bacteria and ensuring the pork is safe to consume. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chop, avoiding the bone.
- Prevent Cross-Contamination: Raw pork can carry bacteria that can contaminate other foods. Always use separate cutting boards, knives, and utensils for raw pork and other ingredients like vegetables or cooked foods. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water immediately after handling raw meat, and sanitize all surfaces and tools that came into contact with it.
- Properly Store Leftovers Promptly: To inhibit bacterial growth, any leftover pork chops should be refrigerated within 2 hours of cooking. Store them in shallow, airtight containers to cool quickly and consume them within 3-4 days. If you plan for longer storage, freeze them as described in the “Storage” section.
For more comprehensive food safety guidelines and temperature charts, please refer to USDA.gov.