These Whole30 Instant Pot Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor! Cooking them in the Instant Pot helps keep them tender and quick to make—perfect for a busy night.
I love how these pork chops come together in no time, and they fit right into my healthy eating plan. Throw in your favorite veggies, and dinner’s set! Who knew healthy could taste this good? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and moisture, but boneless are great for quicker cooking. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a different protein.
Olive Oil or Avocado Oil: Both are excellent choices for cooking. If you want a different taste, try coconut oil for a tropical hint, but keep in mind it may affect the flavor profile slightly.
Onion: Yellow onions are perfect for sweetness. You can substitute with shallots for a milder taste or green onions for a fresher flavor.
Chicken Broth: Always check for sugar or preservatives in your broth. You can use vegetable broth if you’re avoiding animal products altogether.
Dried Thyme: Fresh thyme shines in this dish. If you don’t have it, try oregano or basil as a substitute, just adjust the quantity since dried herbs are more potent.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Tender?
To keep pork chops juicy, avoid overcooking. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Season well before cooking for flavor.
- Sear in the Instant Pot, but only for 2-3 minutes on each side for browning.
- Watch the pressure cooking time closely, 7 minutes is enough for 1-inch thick chops.
- Let the pressure release naturally for a few minutes before quick release, allowing the meat to rest.
Following these steps will help you serve up delicious, tender pork chops every time!
Whole30 Instant Pot Pork Chops
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 teaspoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (make sure Whole30 compliant, no sugar added)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of Whole30 compliant hot sauce for mild heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and sautéing, followed by 7 minutes of cooking time in the Instant Pot. You’ll also want to allow about 5 minutes for natural pressure release. In total, plan for around 30-35 minutes to have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika. This helps to infuse flavor into the meat.
2. Searing the Pork Chops:
Turn on the Instant Pot and set it to “Sauté” mode. Add the oil, and when it’s hot, carefully add the pork chops. Brown them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they achieve a nice golden color. Once browned, remove the pork chops and set them aside.
3. Cooking the Onions and Garlic:
In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
4. Adding the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze it, ensuring all the flavorful bits are mixed in.
5. Incorporating Herbs and Spices:
Add the thyme and any optional red pepper flakes or hot sauce for extra flavor. Stir to combine.
6. Pressure Cooking the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the pot, gently placing them on top of the onions and broth mixture.
7. Cooking in the Instant Pot:
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 7 minutes. Once cooking is complete, allow the pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes before quickly releasing any remaining pressure.
8. Finishing Touches:
Carefully take the pork chops out of the pot. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can press “Sauté” again and let the liquid simmer for a few minutes until it reduces to your liking.
9. Serving:
Serve the juicy pork chops warm, topped with the flavorful onion sauce. You can also garnish them with fresh thyme if desired for an added touch.
Enjoy this juicy, tender, Whole30-approved pork chop dish made quickly in your Instant Pot! It’s a delightful and healthy meal perfect for any night of the week!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops! Just make sure to add an extra 3-5 minutes to the cooking time, as they will need longer to reach the appropriate temperature. It’s best to cook them straight from frozen rather than thawing first for food safety.
What Should I Serve with Whole30 Instant Pot Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You can also enjoy them with sweet potato mash for a delicious, Whole30-friendly meal.
How Can I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave or skillet, adding a little broth to keep them moist. Avoid overheating to maintain their tenderness!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots to the sauté step for extra flavor and nutrition. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as necessary depending on the vegetables you choose.