This easy pork chop brine is your secret to juicy and tender meat every time! Just mix salt, sugar, and some water, then let the chops soak for a bit before cooking.
No one can resist a perfectly cooked pork chop! I love how simple this brine is. It’s a game changer, and the meat turns out so flavorful. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are best for flavor and moisture. If you prefer boneless, just adjust the cooking time as they cook faster. Thin pork chops can work too, but you’ll want to reduce the brining time!
Kosher Salt: I love kosher salt for brining because it dissolves well. If you’re using table salt instead, remember it’s more concentrated—use only about half the amount to avoid overly salty meat.
Sugar: Granulated sugar balances the saltiness. You can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor or even honey as a liquid substitute. Just remember to adjust the amount of liquid if you’re using honey to keep it balanced!
Garlic and Rosemary: These add fantastic flavor! Fresh herbs elevate the dish, but dried herbs can work in a pinch. Just use less—about a teaspoon of dried herbs is sufficient.
How Do I Brine Pork Chops Properly?
Brining is an easy way to keep pork chops moist and flavorful. Start by mixing the water, salt, and sugar until fully dissolved. This is key, so take your time to ensure the grains disappear!
- Combine in a large container—use cold water to keep pork safe.
- Add flavorings like garlic and herbs. They make a big difference!
- Brine for 30 minutes to 2 hours for tender chops. No more than 4 hours to prevent saltiness.
- Always rinse the chops lightly under cold water and pat them dry. Too much brine left on can make them salty.
Following these steps ensures your pork chops are juicy and bursting with flavor. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Easy Pork Chop Brine for Juicy, Tender Meat
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 4 cups cold water
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary (optional)
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time to mix the brine and set up your pork chops. Then, you’ll need to let the pork chops brine in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours. Cooking them takes about 10 minutes. Overall, you’ll have juicy, tender pork chops ready in about 1 hour if you brine for 30 minutes, or around 2 hours if you choose to brine for the full time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brine:
In a large bowl or container, combine the cold water, kosher salt, and granulated sugar. Stir the mixture well until the salt and sugar completely dissolve. This is your brine!
2. Add Flavor:
Add the smashed garlic cloves, fresh rosemary sprigs, and black peppercorns to the brine. These will infuse wonderful flavors into the pork chops.
3. Brine the Pork Chops:
Carefully place the pork chops into the brine, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 2-4 hours. This helps make the pork chops juicy without being too salty!
4. Prepare for Cooking:
Once brining is done, remove the pork chops from the brine and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This step is important because drying helps achieve a nice sear when cooking!
5. Heat the Skillet:
In a cast-iron skillet (or any heavy skillet), heat up the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Wait until it’s hot and shimmering before adding the pork chops.
6. Sear the Pork Chops:
Add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear them until each side is golden brown and cooked all the way through—around 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of your chops.
7. Flavor Boost:
If you like, during the last minute of cooking, toss in a few whole cloves of garlic and another sprig of rosemary into the pan to boost that flavor. Spoon the melted oil or butter over the chops for added richness!
8. Let Them Rest:
After cooking, remove the pork chops from the heat and allow them to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps lock in the juices, making your pork chops super tender!
Now, serve these delicious, juicy pork chops with your favorite sides and enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Pork Chop Brine
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can! Boneless pork chops will cook a bit faster than bone-in chops, so be sure to adjust your cooking time to avoid overcooking. Aim for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on their thickness.
How Long Should I Brine the Pork Chops?
Brining for at least 30 minutes will help flavor the meat, but for optimal results, aim for 2 hours. Avoid brining for longer than 4 hours to prevent the pork from becoming too salty.
Can I Make the Brine in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the brine ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to mix it well before adding the pork chops when you’re ready to brine.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover cooked pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
