Slow Cooker BBQ Pork Chops Recipe

Pork chops: The main protein for this dish, providing a hearty and flavorful base.

BBQ sauce: Adds a smoky, tangy, and sweet flavor to the pork chops.

Brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness and caramelizes during cooking.

Garlic powder: Adds a savory, aromatic element to the seasoning.

Onion powder: Contributes a mild, sweet onion flavor to the dish.

Paprika: Provides a subtle depth of flavor and a hint of color.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the pork chops.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and balances the sweetness.

When seasoning the pork chops, make sure to rub the spices evenly on both sides to ensure a consistent flavor throughout. For an extra layer of taste, you can sear the pork chops in a hot pan for a couple of minutes on each side before placing them in the slow cooker. This will create a nice crust and lock in the juices, enhancing the overall texture and flavor of the dish.

• pork chops - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs have a similar texture and can absorb the flavors of the BBQ sauce well.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce provides a different but equally delicious flavor profile with a sweet and savory taste.

• brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and a slight floral note, which complements the BBQ flavors.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Fresh garlic offers a more intense and aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder.

• onion powder - Substitute with dried minced onion: Dried minced onion provides a similar flavor and texture when rehydrated during cooking.

• paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth to the dish, enhancing the BBQ flavor.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness along with umami, enriching the overall taste.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used to provide a subtle heat without overpowering the dish.

• Allow the pork chops to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to soggy meat.
• Transfer the cooled pork chops and any remaining bbq sauce to an airtight container. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the pork chops within 3-4 days. This keeps the meat tender and flavorful.
• For longer storage, place the pork chops in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
• If using freezer bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Store the pork chops in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. This ensures the meat retains its quality and taste.
• When ready to reheat, thaw the pork chops in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing process helps maintain the texture and flavor.
• Reheat the pork chops in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a microwave on medium power, checking every 2 minutes to avoid overcooking.
• Add a little extra bbq sauce during reheating to keep the pork chops moist and enhance the flavor.
• Serve the reheated pork chops with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the pork chops in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This method helps retain moisture and keeps the bbq sauce from drying out.
• Use a microwave-safe dish and cover the pork chops with a microwave-safe lid or another plate. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating. Add a splash of water or extra bbq sauce to keep them moist.
• Reheat on the stovetop by placing the pork chops in a skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of water or chicken broth to the pan and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until warmed through.
• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F. Place the pork chops in the basket and heat for about 5-7 minutes. This method can help maintain a nice texture without drying out the meat.
• For a quick and easy method, use a steamer. Place the pork chops in a steamer basket over boiling water and steam for about 5-10 minutes. This method helps keep the pork chops moist and tender.

• Slow cooker: This is the main appliance used to cook the pork chops slowly and evenly, ensuring they become tender and flavorful.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the BBQ sauce and brown sugar before pouring it over the pork chops.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the BBQ sauce and brown sugar.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

• Tongs: Handy for placing the seasoned pork chops into the slow cooker without making a mess.

• Whisk: Useful for mixing the BBQ sauce and brown sugar together until well combined.

• Cutting board: Provides a clean surface for seasoning the pork chops.

• Knife: Used to trim any excess fat from the pork chops before seasoning them.

Pre-mix the spices: Combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in advance to save time when seasoning the pork chops.

Use a liner: Place a slow cooker liner in your slow cooker before adding the pork chops and bbq sauce. This makes cleanup quick and easy.

Batch cook: Double the recipe and freeze half for a future meal. This way, you only need to cook once but get two meals.

Pre-make the sauce: Mix the bbq sauce and brown sugar the night before and store it in the fridge. This saves time on the day of cooking.