Juicy and Tender Pork Chops in Your Instant Pot

When it comes to cooking pork chops, I've discovered a secret weapon: the Instant Pot. This versatile kitchen appliance has revolutionized the way I prepare meals, and I'm excited to share my go-to recipe for juicy and tender pork chops that will have your family asking for seconds.

Why the Instant Pot is a Game-Changer

Before I dive into the recipe, let me tell you why I love using the Instant Pot for cooking pork chops:

1. It's fast: The Instant Pot cuts down on cooking time, so you can have a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
2. It's convenient: With the Instant Pot, you can sear the pork chops and cook them in the same pot, which means less cleanup and fewer dishes to wash.
3. It locks in moisture: The pressurized environment of the Instant Pot helps to keep the pork chops moist and tender, so you don't have to worry about them drying out.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make these juicy and tender pork chops, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the pork chops on both sides with garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
2. Turn on the Instant Pot and select the "Sauté" function. Add the olive oil and wait for it to heat up.
3. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the pot and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they're golden brown.
4. Remove the pork chops from the pot and set them aside on a plate.
5. Pour the chicken broth into the pot and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This will help to prevent the "Burn" message from appearing during cooking.
6. Place the trivet that comes with your Instant Pot into the pot, and arrange the pork chops on top of the trivet.
7. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to "Sealing."
8. Cancel the "Sauté" function and select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" function. Set the timer for 7 minutes at high pressure.
9. When the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes, then carefully turn the valve to "Venting" to release any remaining pressure.
10. Open the lid and use tongs to transfer the pork chops to a serving plate.
11. Press the "Cancel" button, then select the "Sauté" function again. Add the butter to the pot and stir until it's melted and well combined with the cooking liquid.
12. Spoon the buttery sauce over the pork chops and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to ensure your pork chops turn out perfectly every time:

• Choose thick-cut, bone-in pork chops for the best flavor and texture.
• Don't skip the searing step! Browning the pork chops before pressure cooking helps to develop a flavorful crust and seals in the juices.
• Use a digital meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops. They should reach 145°F (63°C) to be safe to eat.
• Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Serving Suggestions

These Instant Pot pork chops pair well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans)
• Rice pilaf
• Fresh salad greens with a tangy vinaigrette

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in? Yes, you can use boneless pork chops, but keep in mind that they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Reduce the pressure cooking time to 5-6 minutes for boneless chops.

2. Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot? While this recipe is specifically designed for the Instant Pot, you can achieve similar results using a stovetop pressure cooker or by braising the pork chops in a covered skillet on the stove. However, cooking times and methods will vary.

3. How can I store leftovers? Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or in a skillet on the stove with a splash of broth to keep them moist.

Conclusion

With this simple and flavorful Instant Pot recipe, you can say goodbye to dry, overcooked pork chops and hello to juicy, tender perfection. The Instant Pot takes the guesswork out of cooking pork chops, and the result is a meal that's sure to impress your family and friends. Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out for you!