These Instant Pot Pork Chops are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. In no time, you can have a delicious dinner ready, making weeknight meals a breeze!
I love how the Instant Pot makes cooking so easy! Just season the chops, pop them in, and let it do the magic while I relax—dinner couldn’t get any simpler!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops give great flavor and moisture. If you prefer boneless, they’ll cook faster but may be less juicy. Alternatively, you can use chicken breasts or thighs for a different protein.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a nice smoky flavor, but regular paprika works too. Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano if you want a different aroma!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is ideal for brightness. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled juice works, but fresh is always better. You can also replace lemon with lime for a tangy twist.
Chicken Broth: I recommend low-sodium broth to control saltiness. You can substitute with vegetable broth or even water, but broth enhances the overall flavor.
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Tender and Juicy?
To achieve tender and juicy pork chops, it’s essential to sear them first and cook them properly in the Instant Pot. Here’s how:
- Ensure pork chops are at room temperature before seasoning; it helps with even cooking.
- Pat them dry with paper towels. The drier the surface, the better the sear you’ll achieve.
- Don’t rush the Sauté step—browning adds flavor! Get the oil hot enough, but watch closely to prevent burning.
- After pressure cooking, allow for natural pressure release for 5 minutes; this keeps them juicy.
Following these tips will ensure your pork chops turn out delicious and moist every time!
Instant Pot Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lemon slices
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook. After that, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes. In total, you’ll be enjoying your delicious pork chops in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season both sides of the pork chops evenly with this tasty seasoning mix.
2. Sear the Chops:
Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and add the olive oil. When the oil is hot (you’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers), add the pork chops. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are beautifully browned. Once done, remove the chops and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. This step adds great flavor!
4. Add Broth and Lemon Juice:
Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Take a wooden spoon and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot—this is called deglazing, and it packs in flavor!
5. Arrange the Pork Chops:
Put the seared pork chops back into the pot, laying them on top of the liquid. Add the lemon slices around the chops for extra flavor during cooking.
6. Pressure Cook:
Close the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to ‘Sealing’. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
7. Release the Pressure:
When the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully do a quick release to let out any remaining pressure. Watch out for steam!
8. Serve the Pork Chops:
Open the lid and take the pork chops out, placing them on a serving plate. Spoon some of the delicious cooking liquid over the chops.
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh rosemary and chopped parsley for a lovely touch. Serve these tasty pork chops immediately with your favorite sides!
This recipe yields tender, flavorful pork chops infused with a subtle lemon and herb aroma. The quick browning and pressure cooking ensure a delightful meal that’s easy to prepare. Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Pork Chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Keep in mind that they will cook faster, so reduce the cooking time to about 6-7 minutes under high pressure to prevent them from drying out.
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth is a great substitute. You can also use water, but keep in mind the flavor will be less rich.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep them moist.
Can I Adjust the Seasoning?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste or add your favorite herbs and spices. For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or using a spicy seasoning blend.