This easy brine recipe turns ordinary pork chops into juicy, flavorful treats! Just mix salt, sugar, and spices in water, soak your chops, and you’re good to go!
I love how just a few hours in the brine makes such a big difference. These chops end up tender and tasty—perfect for impressing friends or family (or just yourself!).
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kosher Salt: Kosher salt is perfect for brining because of its coarse texture. If you don’t have it, you can use sea salt or table salt, but use less since they’re more concentrated.
Sugar: White or brown sugar works well here, but you can also use honey or maple syrup for a different flavor twist. Sweeteners balance the saltiness, making the meat taste great!
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are my top choice because the bone adds flavor and moisture. If you only have boneless chops, they’ll still work nicely, just decrease the cooking time slightly.
Herbs: Fresh rosemary is ideal, but feel free to substitute with thyme or sage. Dried herbs can work too, but use less, about a teaspoon or two, since they’re more potent.
How Do I Make Sure My Pork Chops Are Perfectly Cooked?
The key to perfectly cooked pork chops is to watch the cooking time and use a meat thermometer. Here’s how to ensure they’re juicy:
- Use medium-high heat to get a good sear. This helps lock in moisture.
- Cook each side for 4-5 minutes, until golden brown. Don’t peek too often—let them sear!
- Check for doneness at 145°F. This keeps them juicy; they can dry out if cooked too long.
- Let them rest for at least 3-5 minutes before cutting. This helps the juices redistribute, making every bite tender.
And there you have it—your pork chops will be succulent and packed with flavor every time!
Easy Juicy Pork Chop Brine Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1/4 cup sugar (white or brown)
- 3-4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for cooking)
Time Needed:
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time for mixing the brine and preparing the pork chops. You’ll also need at least 1 hour for brining, although 4 hours is ideal for maximum flavor and juiciness. Cooking the chops will take around 10 minutes. In total, expect about 1 hour and 20 minutes, mostly hands-off while the pork chops brine.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brine:
In a medium pot, combine the 4 cups of water, kosher salt, and sugar. Stir over medium heat until both the salt and sugar are fully dissolved. Once dissolved, remove the pot from heat and allow the mixture to cool completely.
2. Add Aromatics:
After the brine cools, add the smashed garlic cloves, black peppercorns, and fresh rosemary sprigs. These aromatics will infuse the pork chops with beautiful flavors while they brine.
3. Brine the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops into a large, sealable plastic bag or a container. Carefully pour the cooled brine over the chops, ensuring they are fully submerged. Seal the bag or container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour; for best results, let them sit in the brine for up to 4 hours.
4. Dry the Chops:
Once brining is complete, remove the pork chops from the brine and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This step will help to achieve a nice sear when cooking.
5. Cook the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C).
6. Infuse Extra Flavor:
For added flavor, during the last minute of cooking, you can toss in a few garlic cloves and rosemary sprigs into the skillet. This will enhance the delicious taste of the pork chops.
7. Let Them Rest:
After cooking, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
This brine enhances the pork chops’ flavor and tenderness, making them deliciously juicy and perfect for any meal. Pair with your favorite sides for a complete dish. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops for This Brine Recipe?
Yes, boneless pork chops can definitely be used! Just note that they may cook a bit faster than bone-in chops, so keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
How Long Should I Brine the Pork Chops?
For best results, brine the pork chops for at least 1 hour, but up to 4 hours is ideal. This allows enough time for the flavors to penetrate and help keep the meat juicy.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Rosemary?
If you don’t have fresh rosemary, feel free to use dried rosemary instead. Just use about 1-2 teaspoons since dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, thyme or sage can be good substitutes too!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid drying out the meat.
