Are you short on time but craving a delicious and healthy dinner? Look no further! This recipe for frozen pork chop crock pot meals is your new weeknight savior. It's incredibly easy, requires minimal prep, and results in juicy, flavorful pork chops every single time. Forget complicated recipes and long cooking times – this is homemade cooking at its simplest and best. Let's dive into this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 4 frozen bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Sear the Pork Chops (Optional but Recommended): While not strictly necessary, searing the frozen pork chops before adding them to the slow cooker helps to develop a beautiful crust and adds depth of flavor. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chops for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step can be skipped if you're truly pressed for time.
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Layer the Crock Pot: Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of your slow cooker.
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Add the Pork Chops: Arrange the seared (or unseared) pork chops on top of the onion and garlic.
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Create the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper.
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Pour and Cook: Pour the sauce evenly over the pork chops in the slow cooker.
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Slow Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are cooked through and easily shred with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Pork Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the crock pot: Ensure there's enough space between the pork chops for even cooking. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your pork chops are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker pork chops may require longer cooking time. Always check for doneness before serving.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve these delicious pork chops with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Variations:
- Sweet and Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
- Apple Cinnamon: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped apples and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the sauce for a warm, autumnal flavor.
- Garlic Lovers: Add extra minced garlic or a sprinkle of garlic powder for a stronger garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This easy recipe for frozen pork chop crock pot meals provides a delicious and healthy dinner option that is perfect for busy weeknights. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with juicy, flavorful pork chops that are sure to be a family favorite. Enjoy!