Effortlessly Juicy & Tender Instant Pot Pork Chops: Your New Favorite Weeknight Meal
Discover the secret to perfectly cooked, extra tender, and incredibly juicy pork chops every single time with your Instant Pot! This recipe transforms humble pork chops into a delicious, quick weeknight meal that your whole family will love. Forget dry, tough pork – the Instant Pot locks in flavor and moisture, delivering succulent results with minimal effort. Pair these easy Instant Pot pork chops with a simple side salad or your favorite steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying dinner.
While the Instant Pot truly excels at making incredibly tender pork, there are many ways to achieve a delicious chop. If you’re exploring different cooking methods, be sure to check out my popular oven-baked pork chops for a classic approach, or my delightful slow cooker pork chops for a hands-off, all-day simmer.
Table of Contents
- Why Cook Pork Chops In the Instant Pot?
- Essential Ingredients for Instant Pot Pork Chops
- Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops in the Instant Pot?
- How to Make Instant Pot Pork Chops: Step-by-Step
- Transform Leftovers Into Delicious Gravy!
- Expert Tips and Flavor Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Pork Chops
- What to Serve With Tender Pork Chops
- Storing and Reheating Instant Pot Pork Chops
- More Pork Chop Recipes to Explore
- Instant Pot Pork Chops Recipe
This Instant Pot pork chop recipe has quickly become a family favorite for its sheer simplicity and consistently delicious results. With just a few basic ingredients and a straightforward method, even beginners can achieve perfectly cooked pork chops. I typically use boneless pork chops for convenience, but the same pressure cooking technique works wonderfully for bone-in chops or even larger cuts like pork tenderloin. Just add a quick salad or some creamy mashed potatoes, and you’ll have a comforting, wholesome meal ready in no time.
Why Cook Pork Chops In the Instant Pot?
If you haven’t tried making pork chops in your Instant Pot yet, you’re in for a treat! This appliance truly shines when it comes to preparing lean meats like pork, offering several compelling advantages:
- It’s incredibly quick. The Instant Pot drastically cuts down on cooking time, making it ideal for busy weeknights. After a quick sear to build flavor, the pressure cooking phase is surprisingly short. While not quite as instant as my air fryer pork chops, the hands-off cooking time makes it a winner.
- They’re guaranteed to be super tender and juicy. The sealed environment of the pressure cooker traps all the moisture, steaming the pork chops to perfection. This process ensures the meat remains incredibly succulent and tender, preventing the dryness often associated with overcooked pork. The result is perfectly seasoned, fall-apart tender pork every time.
- They’re incredibly adaptable. Once your Instant Pot pork chops are cooked, they’re delicious on their own, needing little more than a fork. However, they also serve as a fantastic base for various flavor profiles. You can easily whip up a quick gravy from the pan drippings to create rich smothered pork chops, or add caramelized onions for a savory twist, similar to French onion pork chops.
Essential Ingredients for Instant Pot Pork Chops
One of the many reasons I adore this recipe is its simplicity. You need only a handful of ingredients to create a truly flavorful and memorable dish, allowing the natural deliciousness of the pork to take center stage. Below are some quick notes on what you’ll need. For a precise, printable list with exact amounts, please refer to the recipe card at the end of this post.
- Pork Chops – I recommend using boneless pork chops that are about 1 inch thick. This thickness is ideal for pressure cooking, ensuring they cook through without drying out. Thin-cut (¼ inch) pork chops are generally not suitable for this method as they can easily become overcooked and tough. While this recipe focuses on boneless, bone-in chops can also be used; simply adjust the cooking time slightly, typically adding an extra 3-5 minutes.
- Pork Chop Seasoning – A good seasoning blend is crucial for elevating the flavor of your pork. I keep a jar of my homemade pork chop seasoning in the pantry, which is incredibly easy to prepare with common spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Alternatively, feel free to use your favorite store-bought pork rub or a simple mix of salt and pepper.
- Olive Oil – A high-quality olive oil or other cooking oil is used for searing the pork chops. Searing creates a beautiful golden-brown crust and locks in additional flavor, making a significant difference in the final taste and texture.
- Chicken Broth – Liquid is essential for pressure cooking to create the steam needed for tenderizing the meat. Low-sodium chicken broth is my go-to, as it provides a subtle savory base and allows you to control the overall seasoning. For a different flavor profile, consider substituting the broth with apple cider for a sweet and tangy note, or a dry white wine for a more sophisticated taste.
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops in the Instant Pot?
Absolutely! The Instant Pot is a lifesaver when you forget to thaw meat. You can cook frozen pork chops directly in the Instant Pot, though you’ll need to make a slight adjustment to the cooking time. For frozen pork chops, increase the high-pressure cooking time by about 5 minutes. Keep in mind that the Instant Pot will also take a bit longer to come to pressure when starting with frozen meat. You can also skip the initial searing step if working with frozen chops, although searing always enhances flavor if you have the time.
How to Make Instant Pot Pork Chops: Step-by-Step
This recipe is designed for ease and efficiency. My Instant Pot comfortably fits 4 pork chops, and it’s perfectly fine if they overlap slightly during the pressure cooking phase, as they’ll have been seared beforehand. Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked Instant Pot pork chops. Detailed, printable instructions are available in the recipe card below.
- Prepare and Sear the Pork. Begin by thoroughly seasoning your pork chops on both sides. Next, use your Instant Pot’s sauté setting with a tablespoon of olive oil to sear the meat. Brown them for about 2 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. This crucial step adds depth of flavor and texture. If you prefer, you can also sear the chops in a separate skillet to speed up the process.
- Deglaze the Pot. Carefully remove the seared chops from the Instant Pot. Pour in the chicken broth, then use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This process, called deglazing, prevents a “burn” warning and incorporates all those delicious caramelized flavors into your cooking liquid. Place the Instant Pot trivet (steaming rack) into the pot, then return the pork chops to rest on top of the trivet. They can overlap slightly as they will cook evenly with steam.
- Pressure Cook. Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring the sealing valve is set to the ‘Sealing’ position. Cook at high pressure for 5 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. This “Natural Release” (NR) helps keep the chops tender and prevents them from drying out. After 10 minutes of NR, perform a quick release of any remaining pressure. Your perfectly cooked pork chops are now ready to be served!
Transform Leftovers Into Delicious Gravy!
Don’t let those flavorful pan drippings go to waste! I always like to use the leftover cooking liquid to create a simple, rich gravy to pour over my Instant Pot pork chops and any accompanying sides. Here’s how to do it in minutes:
- After removing the pork chops, scoop about ½ cup of the leftover broth into a small bowl. Whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch until a smooth slurry forms. The amount of cornstarch depends on how thick you prefer your gravy.
- Switch your Instant Pot back to the sauté setting.
- Gradually whisk the cornstarch slurry back into the remaining broth in the Instant Pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, and watch as it thickens to a beautiful, glossy gravy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, if needed.
Expert Tips and Flavor Variations
Mastering Instant Pot pork chops is simple, but a few key tips can ensure outstanding results every time. Plus, don’t be afraid to get creative with flavor!
- Don’t overcook. This is perhaps the most crucial tip for any pork chop recipe, even in a pressure cooker. While the Instant Pot helps keep moisture in, prolonged cooking will still result in dry, tough, and chewy pork chops. Always follow the cooking directions closely, especially the natural release time, to hit that sweet spot of tenderness. The ideal internal temperature for pork is 145°F (63°C), measured with a meat thermometer at the thickest part.
- Use pork chops that are the same size. For consistent cooking and the best results, try to select pork chops that are similar in thickness and size. This ensures they all reach the desired doneness at the same time. If your chops vary significantly, you might consider pounding the thicker parts slightly to even them out.
- The pot needs time to come to pressure. Remember that the listed cooking time (e.g., 5 minutes) does not include the time it takes for your Instant Pot to build pressure. Depending on the amount of liquid and the temperature of your ingredients, this can take anywhere from 10 to 15 minutes, sometimes longer. Factor this “pre-cooking” time into your meal planning.
- Give it some heat or a different twist. While a classic pork chop seasoning is wonderful, feel free to experiment with other flavor profiles. For a spicy kick, I sometimes rub my pork chops with zesty Cajun spice or Creole seasoning. Other delicious variations include a smoky BBQ rub, Italian herbs, or a simple lemon-garlic blend. You can even add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme to the broth for an aromatic touch.
Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Pork Chops
For boneless pork chops that are about 1 inch thick, like those used in this recipe, you’ll cook them for just 5 minutes at high pressure. This is followed by a crucial 10-minute natural pressure release (NR) to ensure maximum tenderness and juiciness. If you’re using thicker-cut (1.5 inches or more) or bone-in pork chops, they will require a longer cooking time, typically closer to 10-15 minutes at high pressure, also followed by a 10-minute natural release.
The most common reason for tough, chewy pork chops in an Instant Pot (or any cooking method) is overcooking. While the pressure cooker is great at tenderizing, it’s still possible to go too far. To avoid this, carefully adhere to the recommended cooking times and ensure you allow for the 10-minute natural pressure release after the cooking cycle. This gradual release helps the meat relax and absorb moisture. The thickness of your chops can also influence the outcome, so try to use uniformly sized pieces.
While searing isn’t strictly necessary for the pork chops to cook through in the Instant Pot, I highly recommend it and never skip this step! Searing the pork chops beforehand creates a beautiful caramelized crust (the Maillard reaction) that significantly enhances the overall flavor and adds a pleasant texture contrast. It also helps to lock in the meat’s natural juices, contributing to a more succulent final product.
Pork is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Always use an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chop to confirm doneness. Once removed from the Instant Pot, the pork chops will continue to cook slightly as they rest, reaching their peak juiciness.
What to Serve With Tender Pork Chops
These juicy Instant Pot pork chops are incredibly versatile, making them a perfect centerpiece for almost any meal. I love serving them with a light and refreshing side like a crisp simple tossed salad or some vibrant sautéed asparagus. For a unique flavor combination, the sweet and tangy notes in this easy apple broccoli salad complement the pork beautifully.
As the weather cools, nothing beats a cozy dinner of tender pork chops served alongside creamy comfort foods. Think rich mushroom stroganoff or a generous spoonful of fluffy Instant Pot mashed potatoes. These chops are also delightful over a bed of savory risotto (which can also be made in your Instant Pot!). Don’t forget a drizzle of homemade gravy and a side of warm, fluffy dinner rolls for soaking up every last bit of flavor!
Storing and Reheating Instant Pot Pork Chops
Proper storage ensures your delicious Instant Pot pork chops remain fresh and flavorful for future meals. Here’s how to best keep and reheat your leftovers:
- Refrigerate. Allow any leftover pork chops to cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days. Storing them with any leftover gravy can help maintain moisture.
- Reheat. To reheat, you can gently warm the pork chops in a preheated oven (around 300°F/150°C) until heated through, adding a splash of broth if they seem dry. Alternatively, you can use a microwave on a lower power setting for short intervals to prevent overcooking and maintain tenderness.
- Freeze. These Instant Pot pork chops freeze exceptionally well, making them perfect for meal prepping. Wrap individual chops tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
More Pork Chop Recipes to Explore
If you love pork chops as much as we do, you’ll want to try these other fantastic recipes:
- Grilled Pork Chops
- Smoked Pork Chops
- Sous Vide Pork Chops
- Lemon Garlic Pork Chops
- Crispy Pork Cutlets
Instant Pot Pork Chops
Erin Sellin
Instant Pot pork chops are perfectly seasoned, perfectly cooked, and so juicy! Pair these tender, easy pork chops with a side of veggies or salad for a quick weeknight dinner.
5 minutes
5 minutes
20 minutes
30 minutes
4
servings
Rate Recipe
Print Recipe
Ingredients
-
4
pork chops,
about 1 inch thick, boneless recommended -
1
Tablespoon
pork chop seasoning
-
1
Tablespoon
olive oil -
1
cup
chicken broth
Instructions
-
Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function and allow it to heat up until “Hot” appears on the display, or it’s hot enough for searing.
-
Meanwhile, evenly season all sides of your pork chops with the pork chop seasoning.4 pork chops,
1 Tablespoon pork chop seasoning -
Add the olive oil to the hot pot. Once shimmering, carefully place the seasoned pork chops in a single layer to brown. Sear for about 2 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms. You may need to do this in batches if your chops don’t fit in a single layer. Remove the browned pork chops from the pot and set aside.1 Tablespoon olive oil
-
Pour in the chicken broth, then use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (deglazing). This prevents a “burn” notice. Place the Instant Pot trivet (steaming rack) into the pot, then arrange the seared pork chops on top of the trivet. They can overlap slightly.1 cup chicken broth
-
Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set the sealing valve to ‘Sealing’. Cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes. Once cooking is complete, allow a Natural Release (NR) for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, carefully turn the valve to ‘Venting’ for a Quick Release (QR) of any remaining pressure.
-
Carefully remove the tender pork chops from the Instant Pot. Check the internal temperature (145°F/63°C) and serve immediately with your desired sides.
Nutrition
Serving:
1
pork chop
|
Calories:
254
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
3
g
|
Protein:
30
g
|
Fat:
13
g
|
Saturated Fat:
4
g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat:
2
g
|
Monounsaturated Fat:
7
g
|
Trans Fat:
0.1
g
|
Cholesterol:
91
mg
|
Sodium:
283
mg
|
Potassium:
536
mg
|
Fiber:
0.4
g
|
Sugar:
0.4
g
|
Vitamin A:
104
IU
|
Vitamin C:
0.4
mg
|
Calcium:
49
mg
|
Iron:
2
mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
Erin Sellin
5 minutes
5 minutes
20 minutes
30 minutes
Dinner Recipes
American
4
servings
254
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