Perfectly Tender Instant Pot Pork Chops: Juicy & Easy Weeknight Meal
Discover the secret to making Instant Pot pork chops that are consistently juicy, incredibly tender, and bursting with flavor. This incredibly simple recipe guarantees delicious results every time, transforming your weeknight dinner routine. With just a few basic ingredients and the magic of your Instant Pot, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in no time. Serve these tender chops alongside a fresh salad or your favorite steamed vegetables for a complete and comforting dinner that the whole family will love.
While the Instant Pot offers an unparalleled convenience for perfectly cooked pork chops, our kitchen explores many methods to achieve culinary perfection. If you’re a fan of traditional baking, be sure to check out our oven baked pork chops for a classic approach. For those busy days when you need a meal to cook itself, our delectable slow cooker pork chops provide another fantastic option that ensures tender meat with minimal effort.
Table of Contents
- Why Cook Pork Chops In the Instant Pot?
- Choosing the Best Pork Chops
- Recipe Ingredients
- How to Make Instant Pot Pork Chops
- Tips and Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What to Serve With Pork Chops
- Storing and Reheating
- More Pork Chop Recipes
- Instant Pot Pork Chops Recipe
This Instant Pot pork chops recipe has quickly become our go-to for delivering incredibly juicy, tender pork chops, especially on busy weeknights. It’s an ideal method for anyone looking to simplify their cooking, even if you’re new to making pork chops or using a pressure cooker. This recipe primarily uses boneless pork chops, but the versatile technique can also be adapted for bone-in cuts and even pork tenderloin. Pair your perfectly cooked chops with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad for a delightful and comforting family meal.
Why Cook Pork Chops In the Instant Pot?
The Instant Pot isn’t just a trendy kitchen gadget; it’s a game-changer, especially for proteins like pork chops that can easily dry out. Here’s why cooking pork chops in your Instant Pot will quickly become your favorite method:
- It’s lightning quick. The pressure cooking method drastically reduces cooking time compared to conventional oven or stovetop methods. After a quick sear to build flavor, the chops cook in minutes under high pressure, making them almost as fast as our air fryer pork chops. This speed is perfect for those evenings when you’re short on time but still crave a homemade, wholesome meal. The initial searing step is crucial, creating a beautiful browned exterior that locks in flavor and mimics the delicious crust you’d get from pan-frying.
- They’re incredibly tender and juicy. The Instant Pot’s sealed environment means moisture is locked in, preventing the pork from drying out. This pressure, combined with the quick cooking time, breaks down the muscle fibers efficiently, resulting in pork chops that are remarkably succulent and tender – a common challenge when cooking pork. Each bite is bursting with flavor, perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection.
- They’re wonderfully adaptable. Once these pork chops are cooked, they are delicious simply as they are, straight from the pot. However, their neutral yet rich flavor profile makes them an excellent base for a variety of culinary creations. You can easily whip up a savory gravy from the leftover cooking liquid to make smothered pork chops, or add caramelized onions for a gourmet twist, much like our French onion pork chops. The possibilities for customization are endless, allowing you to tailor the meal to your taste or what you have on hand.
Choosing the Best Pork Chops for Your Instant Pot
The type of pork chop you select can significantly impact the final texture and juiciness of your Instant Pot meal. Here are some guidelines to help you choose the ideal chops:
- Thickness Matters: For the best results in the Instant Pot, we highly recommend using pork chops that are at least 1 inch thick. Thinner chops (like ¼-inch cuts) tend to cook too quickly under pressure and can become tough and dry, even in the Instant Pot’s moist environment. Thicker chops hold up better to the pressure cooking process, ensuring they remain tender and juicy.
- Boneless vs. Bone-in: While this recipe primarily focuses on boneless pork chops for their ease of preparation and consistent cooking, bone-in pork chops can also be used. Bone-in chops often add more flavor to the dish and can sometimes retain moisture even better. If using bone-in chops, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, increasing it by 2-5 minutes depending on thickness, to ensure they are cooked through.
- Even Sizing: For uniform cooking, try to select pork chops that are roughly the same size and thickness. This ensures that all chops are cooked perfectly at the same time, preventing some from being overcooked while others are still underdone.
Recipe Ingredients
One of the many joys of this Instant Pot pork chop recipe is its simplicity, requiring just a handful of ingredients. This allows the natural, rich flavors of the pork to truly shine, complemented by thoughtful seasoning and a touch of liquid for perfect pressure cooking. You don’t need much to create a truly memorable meal.
Below are some quick notes on each ingredient. For precise measurements and a printable list, please refer to the complete recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Pork Chops – As mentioned, boneless pork chops about 1” in thickness are ideal for this recipe. Their size allows them to cook beautifully under pressure without becoming dry or tough. Avoid thin-cut (¼”) pork chops, as they tend to overcook very easily in a pressure cooker.
- Seasoning – A high-quality pork chop seasoning blend is key to enhancing the meat’s natural taste. We often use our homemade pork chop seasoning, which is incredibly simple to prepare from common pantry spices and delivers a robust flavor. If you prefer, a good quality store-bought blend will also work wonderfully. Feel free to experiment with your favorite spice combinations!
- Olive Oil – Essential for searing the pork chops, olive oil helps create a beautiful golden-brown crust, locking in moisture and adding depth of flavor. Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil or any other high-heat cooking oil you prefer. This step is brief but impactful!
- Chicken Broth – Liquid is crucial for pressure cooking, creating the steam needed to cook the food. Low-sodium chicken broth is our preference as it allows for better control over the final seasoning of the dish. For an adventurous twist, you could experiment with white wine, apple cider, or even a light beer to introduce different flavor profiles that complement pork wonderfully.
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops in the Instant Pot?
Absolutely! The Instant Pot is incredibly versatile and can handle frozen pork chops without needing to thaw them beforehand, making it a lifesaver on busy days. To cook Instant Pot frozen pork chops, you’ll need to increase the high-pressure cooking time by approximately 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness and how many chops you’re cooking (the pot will also take a bit longer to come to pressure). While not strictly necessary, searing frozen chops is usually skipped to avoid uneven cooking. Simply add your liquid, place the frozen chops on the trivet, and set the timer!
How to Make Instant Pot Pork Chops
Creating these tender and juicy pork chops in your Instant Pot is a straightforward process, even for beginners. My Instant Pot comfortably accommodates four standard-sized pork chops. It’s perfectly fine if the chops overlap slightly during the pressure cooking phase since they will be seared individually before they go into the hot steam. Follow these steps for perfect results. Detailed, printable instructions are available in the recipe card below.
- Prepare and Sear the Pork. Begin by generously seasoning your pork chops on all sides with your chosen blend. Then, activate your Instant Pot’s sauté setting and allow it to heat up with a tablespoon of olive oil. Sear the pork chops for about 2 minutes per side until beautifully browned. This crucial step develops a rich flavor and helps seal in the juices. If you prefer, you can also sear them in a separate skillet for slightly quicker turnover, then transfer them to the Instant Pot.
- Deglaze the Pot. Once all chops are seared, remove them from the Instant Pot. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. This “deglazing” step is vital not only for flavor but also to prevent the “burn” warning during pressure cooking. Return the seared pork chops to the pot, placing them on the trivet that comes with your Instant Pot. This keeps them slightly elevated from the liquid, allowing them to steam perfectly.
- Pressure Cook and Serve. Secure the lid of your Instant Pot, ensure the sealing valve is set to ‘Sealing’, and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. After the cooking cycle completes, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. This natural release is key for incredibly tender pork, as it allows the internal temperature to equalize. Following the natural release, you can perform a quick release of any remaining pressure. Your perfectly cooked, juicy pork chops are now ready to be removed and served immediately!
Transform Leftover Liquid Into a Savory Gravy!
Don’t let the flavorful cooking liquid go to waste! It’s the perfect base for a simple, quick gravy that will elevate your Instant Pot pork chops to another level. Here’s how to create this delicious, rich accompaniment:
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with about ½ cup of the leftover broth from the Instant Pot until you have a smooth slurry. The exact amount of cornstarch depends on how thick you desire your gravy.
- Return the Instant Pot to the sauté setting, bringing the remaining broth to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk the cornstarch slurry into the simmering broth, adding a little at a time. Continue to whisk gently as the liquid thickens, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. Serve this homemade gravy generously over your tender pork chops for an extra layer of comfort and flavor!
Tips and Variations for Instant Pot Pork Chops
Achieving perfectly tender and juicy pork chops in the Instant Pot is easy, but a few key tips and creative variations can make your meal even better. Here’s how to ensure success every time and add exciting twists:
- Avoid Overcooking. This is perhaps the most crucial tip for any pork dish. Even in a pressure cooker, it’s possible to overcook pork. Overcooked pork chops will inevitably turn out dry, tough, and chewy, and unfortunately, no amount of additional cooking or sauce can rescue them. Follow the recommended cooking times closely for the thickness of your chops, and always prioritize the natural release time to help the meat remain tender and moist.
- Ensure Uniformity in Size. For the best and most consistent results, always try to use pork chops that are similar in size and thickness. This ensures they cook evenly at the same rate. If you have chops of varying sizes, you might consider removing the smaller ones earlier if they reach optimal doneness first, or cook them separately.
- Account for Pressure Build-Up Time. When planning your meal, remember that most Instant Pot models require approximately 10-15 minutes (sometimes more, depending on the amount of liquid and temperature) to build up to full pressure before the actual cooking time begins. This isn’t included in the stated “cook time” in recipes, so factor it into your total meal preparation time.
- Experiment with Spice and Heat. While our standard pork chop seasoning is fantastic, don’t hesitate to give your chops an extra kick! Instead of the typical blend, try rubbing them with a bold Cajun spice or Creole seasoning for a fiery, aromatic flavor. You could also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the broth for a subtle warmth.
- Flavorful Liquids Beyond Broth: While chicken broth is a reliable choice, don’t limit yourself! Apple juice or apple cider can add a lovely sweetness that pairs wonderfully with pork. Hard cider, white wine, or even a light beer can introduce more complex, savory notes.
- Add Aromatics: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding aromatics like minced garlic, sliced onions, or fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme) directly into the Instant Pot with the broth before cooking. These will infuse the liquid and the chops with delightful fragrances.
Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Pork Chops
Here are some common questions about making pork chops in your Instant Pot, ensuring you achieve perfect results every time:
For boneless pork chops that are about 1 inch thick, like those used in this recipe, a cook time of just 5 minutes at high pressure is ideal, followed by a crucial 10-minute natural pressure release. This natural release period is essential for the chops to finish cooking gently and retain their juiciness. If you’re working with thicker-cut pork chops (1.5 inches or more) or bone-in varieties, increase the high-pressure cooking time to approximately 8-12 minutes, always followed by a 10-minute natural release. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 145°F (63°C) for safety.
The most common culprit for tough, chewy Instant Pot pork chops is overcooking. While the Instant Pot is excellent at tenderizing, extended cooking times under pressure can still dry out and toughen the meat. It’s vital to follow the recommended cooking duration precisely and, importantly, to allow for the 10-minute natural pressure release. Releasing the pressure too quickly or cooking for too long can both contribute to dryness. The thickness of your pork chops also plays a role, so ensure your cooking time is adjusted accordingly.
While searing pork chops before pressure cooking isn’t absolutely mandatory, we highly recommend it and never skip this step! Searing creates a beautiful, caramelized crust on the exterior of the pork, which significantly enhances its flavor and helps to lock in those precious juices. This browning process adds a depth of savory, umami notes that you simply can’t achieve with pressure cooking alone. It’s a quick extra step that makes a world of difference in the final taste and texture of your Instant Pot pork chops.
Yes, you can absolutely double the recipe! The Instant Pot is great for cooking larger quantities. Just ensure that your pork chops fit comfortably in a single layer (or two layers if necessary, as they will sear before pressure cooking) without exceeding the “Max Fill” line of your Instant Pot. You may need to sear the chops in batches if your pot isn’t large enough to accommodate them all at once. The cooking time for the pressure cooking phase generally remains the same for the same thickness of chops, but the pot might take slightly longer to come to pressure.
For optimum safety and tenderness, pork chops should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), measured with a meat thermometer at the thickest part of the chop. After reaching this temperature, allow the meat to rest for a few minutes, during which its temperature will continue to rise slightly (carryover cooking) and the juices will redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop. Modern recommendations allow for pork to be slightly pink in the center at this temperature.
What to Serve With Instant Pot Pork Chops
These incredibly juicy and tender Instant Pot pork chops are versatile and pair beautifully with a wide array of side dishes. Whether you’re craving fresh greens or hearty comfort food, there’s a perfect accompaniment for every season and mood.
- Fresh and Green: For a light and vibrant meal, I often serve these chops with a simple tossed salad, featuring crisp greens and a light vinaigrette. Another excellent green option is tender sautéed asparagus, which adds a lovely freshness and crunch.
- Sweet and Savory Salads: The delightful flavors in this easy apple broccoli salad offer a fantastic contrast to the savory pork, with its sweet and tangy notes.
- Hearty and Comforting: As the weather cools, nothing beats a cozy dinner of tender pork chops served with our creamy mushroom stroganoff. The rich, earthy flavors of the stroganoff complement the pork perfectly, creating a truly satisfying meal.
- Classic Carb Sides: These chops are equally delicious served over a bed of fluffy Instant Pot mashed potatoes or a luxurious mushroom and butternut squash risotto – both of which can also be made with ease in your Instant Pot! Just add a generous drizzle of the homemade gravy (if you made it!) and a side of warm, fluffy dinner rolls to soak up all the delicious juices.
Storing and Reheating Instant Pot Pork Chops
Making a larger batch of Instant Pot pork chops means you’ll have delicious leftovers to enjoy later in the week or even freeze for future meals. Proper storage and reheating are key to maintaining their delicious flavor and tender texture.
- Refrigerate. Allow any leftover pork chops to cool completely before storing. Once cool, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. Properly stored, they will remain fresh and delicious for 2-3 days.
- Reheat. To reheat, you have a few excellent options. For best results, gently warm the pork chops in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, adding a splash of broth to prevent drying. Alternatively, they can be reheated quickly in the microwave on a medium setting, covering them to retain moisture. Be careful not to overheat, as this can lead to dryness.
- Freeze. These Instant Pot pork chops freeze exceptionally well, making them perfect for meal prepping. To freeze, wrap individual pork chops tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. For optimal quality, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating using the methods above. This ensures they retain their tender texture upon warming.
More Delicious Pork Chop Recipes to Try
If you’ve enjoyed the ease and deliciousness of these Instant Pot pork chops, you’re in for a treat! We have a wide variety of other fantastic pork chop recipes, each offering a unique flavor and cooking method. Expand your culinary repertoire with these mouthwatering options:
- Grilled Pork Chops: Perfect for summer cookouts, delivering a smoky char and tender interior.
- Smoked Pork Chops: For those who love deep, rich, smoky flavors.
- Sous Vide Pork Chops: Achieve unparalleled tenderness and precise cooking with this modern technique.
- Lemon Garlic Pork Chops: A bright and zesty flavor profile for a refreshing meal.
- Crispy Pork Cutlets: Thinly pounded and breaded, offering a satisfying crunch.
Instant Pot Pork Chops
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Ingredients
- 4 pork chops, about 1 inch thick (boneless preferred)
- 1 Tablespoon pork chop seasoning
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
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Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function and allow it to heat up completely.
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While the pot heats, generously season the pork chops evenly on both sides with your chosen pork chop seasoning blend.4 pork chops, 1 Tablespoon pork chop seasoning
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Add the olive oil to the hot Instant Pot. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned pork chops in a single layer (you may need to work in batches) and sear for about 2 minutes on each side until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms. Remove the seared chops from the pot and set aside.1 Tablespoon olive oil
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Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon (this prevents a “burn” warning). Place the trivet (that came with your Instant Pot) into the pot, and then arrange the seared pork chops on top of the trivet. It’s okay if they overlap slightly.1 cup chicken broth
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Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set the valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Pressure Cook” (or “Manual”) setting on High Pressure for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes (do not quick release immediately). After 10 minutes, carefully perform a quick release to vent any remaining pressure.
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Carefully remove the tender pork chops from the Instant Pot. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 145°F (63°C). Serve immediately with your favorite sides and a drizzle of gravy if desired.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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