I’m so excited to share one of my all-time favorite recipes with you today: Instant Pot Boneless Pork Chops! These little beauties are so tender, delicious, and packed with flavor, they’ll make you feel like a culinary superstar—even on the busiest of weeknights.
You know those evenings when you come home exhausted, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen? That’s when this recipe swoops in like a superhero! I remember the first time I made these pork chops—my friends were over for dinner, and they couldn’t believe how quick and easy it was to create such a stunning dish. Now, every time I make them, it feels like I’m hosting my own little dinner party, even if it’s just a Tuesday night. So, grab your Instant Pot and let’s dive in!
What’s in Instant Pot Boneless Pork Chops?
Boneless Pork Chops: The star of our show! I usually go for chops that are about 1 inch thick, but you can adjust based on your preference.
Olive Oil: This adds a lovely richness and helps with the sautéing process. I prefer extra virgin olive oil; it just gives a touch of flavor that you can’t resist.
Garlic Powder: Who doesn’t love garlic? It adds an incredible depth of flavor and enhances the savory profile of the pork.
Onion Powder: Similar to garlic powder, this ingredient is key for that rich taste without needing to chop an onion—win-win!
Smoked Paprika: This is my secret ingredient; it adds a gentle smokiness that really elevates the dish. You can also play around with regular paprika if you’re not into smoke.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Don’t skip this step; it’s vital for bringing out all the flavors.
Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and flavor—plus, it helps to deglaze the pot, giving your sauce a beautiful base.
Cornstarch: Optional! If you love a thicker sauce, this is your go-to for achieving that perfect consistency.
Fresh Parsley: A pop of color and freshness—because we eat with our eyes first, right?
Is Instant Pot Boneless Pork Chops Good for You?
Honestly, I think these pork chops can be part of a balanced meal!
Pork Chops: A great source of protein and essential nutrients like vitamin B12, zinc, and iron; they help keep your muscles strong and your energy levels high.
Olive Oil: Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, it can lower your risk of heart disease.
Chicken Broth: If you choose low-sodium broth, you’ll avoid unnecessary sodium levels, making this dish even healthier.
Of course, moderation is key! Balance these chops out with some vibrant veggies or a nice salad, and you’ve got yourself a nutritious meal that’s also incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
– 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
*Serves 4*
How to Make Instant Pot Boneless Pork Chops?
1. **Season the Pork Chops**: First things first, sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper all over the pork chops. Make sure they’re well coated—this is where the flavor magic begins!
2. **Sauté**: Turn on your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned pork chops in a single layer. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully browned. Then, remove the chops and set them aside.
3. **Deglaze the Pot**: Pour the chicken broth into the pot, using a wooden spoon to scrape up those delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds tons of flavors and helps prevent any burn notices.
4. **Pressure Cook**: Place the pork chops back into the pot. Close the lid, set the steam release handle to “Sealing,” and select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. **Natural Release**: After the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for 5-10 minutes. After that, switch the steam release handle to “Venting” to release any remaining steam.
6. **Thicken the Sauce (optional)**: If you love a thicker sauce, take the chops out and set them on a plate. Turn the Instant Pot back to “Sauté.” Mix the cornstarch with a small amount of water to make a slurry, then stir into the pot until the sauce thickens (about 2-3 minutes).
7. **Serve**: You can either return the pork chops to the pot to coat them in the sauce or serve them on plates, drenching them in the sauce and topping with fresh parsley for a pop of color!
Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Boneless Pork Chops
Now that your mouth is watering, here are a few tips to make your serving experience even better!
– Pair these pork chops with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. They soak up the sauce beautifully!
– Want to jazz it up? Serve with a tangy apple sauce or some sautéed greens for a delightful contrast.
– Leftovers? Slice the chops and toss them into a salad the next day for a delicious work lunch. Trust me; you’ll be the envy of the break room!
I truly hope you enjoy making these Instant Pot Boneless Pork Chops as much as I do! Whether it’s for a cozy night in or feeding friends, this recipe is sure to impress. If you try it, I would absolutely love to hear how it turned out. Cook on, my friends!
