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Savory Bourbon Brown Sugar Glazed Pork Chops with Rosemary

bourbon brown sugar glazed pork chops - featured image

These pork chops are glazed with a sweet and savory bourbon brown sugar sauce infused with fresh rosemary, creating a sticky, caramelized crust while keeping the meat tender and juicy. Perfect for an easy yet impressive dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick (center-cut recommended)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1/4 cup bourbon
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, bourbon, chopped rosemary, and minced garlic. Stir well.
  3. Heat a heavy skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter. Wait until butter melts and foams.
  4. Add pork chops carefully to the pan. Sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden-brown crust forms. Avoid moving them too much.
  5. Remove pork chops to a plate and tent loosely with foil to keep warm.
  6. Lower heat to medium. Pour the brown sugar-bourbon-rosemary mixture into the pan. Stir constantly to prevent burning.
  7. Let glaze simmer for 3-5 minutes until thick and syrupy, coating the back of a spoon. If too thick or burning, lower heat and add a splash of water or apple cider vinegar.
  8. Return pork chops to the pan. Spoon glaze over them and cook for another 1-2 minutes, turning to coat each side with the sticky glaze.
  9. Remove from heat and let chops rest for 3 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfect juiciness. Let chops rest before serving to lock in juices. If glaze thickens too fast or burns, lower heat and add a splash of water or apple cider vinegar. Fresh rosemary is preferred for best flavor. Can substitute bourbon with whiskey, brandy, or non-alcoholic apple cider concentrate. For gluten-free option, dust chops with almond or gluten-free flour before searing.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork chops, bourbon glaze, brown sugar, rosemary, easy dinner, savory pork, glazed pork chops, quick recipe