These Instant Pot pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a tasty meal in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.
Cooking in the Instant Pot makes everything easier, plus it keeps the chops so tender. I love pairing them with mashed potatoes—it’s comfort food that everyone enjoys! 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are great because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re short on time, you could use thin pork cutlets for a faster cook, or bone-in chops for extra flavor.
Olive Oil: Essential for searing, olive oil gives a nice richness. You can substitute with canola or vegetable oil if that’s what you have, but don’t skip this step – it adds lots of flavor!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must; it brings a beautiful aroma and taste. If you’re out, garlic powder can work in a pinch—use about 1/4 teaspoon for every clove.
Chicken Broth: It’s key for building flavor. You can use low-sodium broth or even vegetable broth if you want a lighter taste. If you’re in a hurry, water can work, but it won’t be as rich.
Soy Sauce: For depth of flavor, regular soy sauce is perfect. If you want to reduce sodium, try low-sodium soy sauce, or even coconut aminos for a different taste.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary add great flavor. If fresh herbs are available, use them! They give a brighter taste. Oregano or Italian seasoning are also good substitutes.
How Do I Get Those Pork Chops Perfectly Tender?
Pressure cooking can be tricky, but here’s how to get tender and juicy pork chops every time. First, searing before cooking helps lock in moisture and flavor. Just don’t skip it!
- Use medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering. A good sear takes just 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Always allow for a natural pressure release (5 minutes) before venting. It’s crucial to keep the meat tender.
- If you’re unsure about cooking times, remember that thin chops need less time (about 6 minutes), while thicker ones may need longer.
Instant Pot Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening sauce)
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 15 minutes for cooking in the Instant Pot. Plus, you’ll need an extra 5 minutes for the natural pressure release. In just 35 minutes, you can enjoy delicious, tender pork chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by generously seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. This will add flavor right from the start!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Turn the Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ setting and heat the olive oil. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are nice and golden brown. This helps seal in the juices. After searing, remove the pork chops and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. This will infuse your dish with a lovely garlic aroma!
4. Add the Liquid Ingredients:
Now, pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, and rosemary. Stir everything well, making sure to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.
5. Cook the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the Instant Pot, making sure they’re submerged in the sauce. Close the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing,’ and pressure cook on High for 8 minutes.
6. Release the Pressure:
When the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes. Then, carefully turn the valve to ‘Venting’ to release any remaining pressure.
7. Optional – Thicken the Sauce:
Remove the pork chops from the pot and cover them to keep warm. If you want to thicken the sauce, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to make a slurry, then stir it into the sauce in the pot. Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened to your liking.
8. Serve:
Pour the sauce over the pork chops and serve warm. Enjoy your flavorful, tender Instant Pot pork chops!
With these steps, you’re sure to impress everyone at the dinner table. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can absolutely use bone-in pork chops! Just be aware that they might need an additional minute or two of cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.
What Should I Serve with These Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve them with a fresh salad for a lighter option!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the microwave or on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Soy Sauce?
Yes, you can substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos for a gluten-free option, or use Worcestershire sauce for a different flavor profile. If you’re avoiding all soy products, adjusting the seasoning with additional herbs can help maintain the taste.