Pork Chops in a Pressure Cooker Recipe Made Easy

Pressure cooking is a game-changer when it comes to making juicy, tender pork chops in a fraction of the time it usually takes. If you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture, this pork chops in a pressure cooker recipe is exactly what you need.

Using a pressure cooker helps seal in the moisture, ensuring every bite is succulent and perfectly cooked. Plus, the method allows you to infuse the pork chops with a rich, savory sauce that elevates the dish without any extra fuss.

This recipe is ideal for busy home cooks who want comfort food fast, but it’s also elegant enough for guests. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to pressure cooking, the step-by-step instructions will guide you through making pork chops that come out tender and delicious every time.

Get ready to impress your family with this simple, flavorful, and hearty meal that will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines speed, simplicity, and incredible flavor. Cooking pork chops in a pressure cooker means you get tender meat without waiting hours, making it perfect for busy evenings.

The pressure cooker locks in juices and intensifies the flavors of the herbs, garlic, and broth used in the recipe.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt the seasoning or sauce to suit your taste, whether you prefer a tangy tomato base, creamy mushroom sauce, or a sweet and spicy glaze.

It’s also a one-pot meal that minimizes cleanup, so you can spend more time enjoying your food and less time scrubbing pans.

Finally, this method ensures that the pork chops stay moist and tender, eliminating the risk of dry or overcooked meat—something that can often happen with traditional cooking methods. It’s foolproof, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick, 1 to 1.5 pounds total)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Electric or stovetop pressure cooker
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or spatula for flipping pork chops
• Mixing bowl for cornstarch slurry (optional)
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Serving plates

Instructions

1. Season the pork chops. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. This seasoning layer is key for flavor and creating a nice crust.
2. Sear the pork chops. Set your pressure cooker to the sauté or browning setting and heat the olive oil. Once hot, add pork chops and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Remove chops and set aside.
3. Sauté onions and garlic. In the same pot, add sliced onions and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add liquids and flavorings. Pour in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and stir in the brown sugar and dried thyme. Scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits — this adds great flavor to the sauce.
5. Return pork chops to the pot. Nestle the seared pork chops into the liquid, making sure they are partially submerged but not fully covered.
6. Pressure cook. Seal the pressure cooker lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure manually.
7. Thicken the sauce (optional). Remove the pork chops and set them on a serving plate. Turn the pressure cooker back to sauté and stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.
8. Serve and garnish. Pour the thickened sauce over the pork chops and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

“For extra flavor, marinate the pork chops in apple cider vinegar, garlic, and herbs for 1-2 hours before cooking.”

• Use boneless pork chops: If preferred, you can substitute boneless chops. Just reduce the cooking time by 1-2 minutes to avoid overcooking.
• Add vegetables: For a complete one-pot meal, add chopped carrots, potatoes, or green beans before pressure cooking.
• Swap the broth: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or even water with a bouillon cube for different flavor profiles.
• Flavor variations: Try adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of soy sauce for an Asian twist.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This pressure cooker pork chops recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic comfort meal, serve with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles to soak up the savory sauce.

Roasted or steamed vegetables like green beans, asparagus, or carrots add a fresh, healthy balance.

If you want a lighter option, serve the chops alongside a crisp green salad or cauliflower rice. For a heartier meal, consider pairing with garlic bread or a warm crusty roll to mop up every last bit of sauce.

Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a bright finishing touch that also adds a pop of color.

Conclusion

Cooking pork chops in a pressure cooker is a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious and tender meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe delivers juicy pork chops infused with rich flavors from the broth, apple cider vinegar, and spices, all in under 30 minutes.

The pressure cooking method locks in moisture, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.

Whether you’re feeding a family on a busy weeknight or entertaining guests, this recipe is simple enough to prepare quickly yet impressive in taste. With plenty of tips and variations, you can customize it to suit your preferences or the ingredients you have on hand.

Give it a try and discover how easy and rewarding pressure cooker meals can be!

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