A delightful medley of sweet and tangy flavors, Brown Sugar-Pineapple Pork Chops offer a satisfying dinner in just 30 minutes.
Caramelized pineapple and red onions pair perfectly with juicy pork chops, while goat cheese adds a creamy, tangy finish. Garnished with fresh parsley, this skillet dish feels gourmet yet remains approachable for busy weeknights.
The combination of spice-rubbed pork and caramelized fruit creates a harmonious balance of savory and sweet, making this recipe a favorite for any occasion. Pair it with rice, roasted veggies, or a crisp salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
The Stars of Brown Sugar-Pineapple Pork Chops
Pork chops – The tender, juicy centerpiece of this dish, seasoned to perfection.
Pineapple rings – Caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness and tropical flair.
Red onion – Adds a subtle sweetness and a pop of color.
Goat cheese – A tangy contrast to the dish’s sweetness.
Brown sugar – Enhances the caramelization process and deepens the flavor.
Chipotle chile powder – Adds smoky heat to balance the sweetness.
Garlic and onion powders – Layered flavors to enhance every bite.
Ground cinnamon – A warm, unexpected twist to elevate the seasoning.
Let’s Make Brown Sugar-Pineapple Pork Chops!
Prepare the spice mix: Combine chipotle chile powder, garlic powder, cinnamon, and onion powder for a smoky-sweet rub.
Caramelize the pineapple and onions: In a skillet, cook pineapple rings and red onions with a touch of brown sugar and pineapple juice until golden and fragrant.
Season and sear the pork chops: Pat pork chops dry, season with salt and pepper, and sear them to a beautiful golden brown in the same skillet.
Spice it up: Sprinkle the chipotle spice mixture over the pork chops while they cook to infuse bold flavors.
Assemble and serve: Top the pork chops with the caramelized pineapple-onion mixture and finish with a sprinkle of goat cheese.
Tips for Perfect Pork Chops Every Time
For the juiciest pork chops, let them rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F, avoiding overcooking. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the chipotle chile powder slightly.
To elevate the presentation, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with steamed rice or roasted vegetables. For an added touch of indulgence, drizzle the juices from the skillet over the plated dish.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pork chops gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or pineapple juice to keep them moist. Avoid using the microwave, as it can dry out the meat.
This dish also freezes well! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, thawing in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Brown Sugar-Pineapple Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops
- 1 8-ounce can pineapple rings, drained (reserve juice)
- 1 red onion thinly sliced
- ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil divided
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons chipotle chile powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the chipotle chile powder, garlic powder, cinnamon, and onion powder until evenly combined.
- Thoroughly pat the pineapple rings dry and set aside.
- Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the pineapple rings and red onion into the skillet, then sprinkle with 3 tablespoons of the reserved pineapple juice and the brown sugar. Cook for about 3 minutes per side, until the pineapple is lightly caramelized. Remove the mixture and set it aside on a plate.
- Pat the pork chops dry, then lightly season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Using the same skillet, heat the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium-high heat, ensuring the pan is evenly coated. Add the pork chops and cook for about 3 minutes, or until the underside is golden brown. Flip the chops, then sprinkle the chipotle spice mixture on top.
- Cook for an additional 3 minutes on the other side. Continue flipping and cooking the pork chops, ensuring they are evenly browned and cooked through, for another 3 to 5 minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Transfer the pork chops to a plate and top them with the caramelized pineapple-onion mixture. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese over the top before serving.
