7 Instant Pot Pork Chops: Tender & Juicy Recipes

Are you tired of dry, rubbery pork chops that disappoint at dinner time? Many home cooks struggle to achieve that perfect tender and juicy result, especially on busy weeknights.

The Instant Pot is ideal for cooking pork chops because its pressure cooking environment locks in moisture and tenderizes the meat quickly, preventing the common problem of dry, tough results. This method ensures juicy, flavorful chops with minimal effort. Leveraging tested frameworks and data-driven insights, you can transform a common kitchen challenge into a culinary triumph. Discover how to unlock perfectly cooked pork chops, full of flavor, right from your kitchen.

1. Creamy Mushroom Instant Pot Pork Chops

Pin this savory, melt-in-your-mouth recipe to your dinner board!

This recipe highlights the Instant Pot’s ability to create tender pork chops enhanced by a rich, creamy mushroom sauce. It’s a comforting and easy Instant Pot pork chop recipe with a flavor profile that’s sure to please. You’ll love how these boneless pork chops absorb all the savory goodness.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless pork chops (1-inch thick, preferably pasture-raised pork)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (high smoke point cooking oil)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (finely ground, non-clumping)
• 1/2 tsp onion powder (for depth of flavor)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme (aromatic herb)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (low sodium option)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (reduced sodium)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (for extra richness)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Season pork chops: Pat the boneless pork chops dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season both sides generously with garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Sauté pork chops: Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function (Normal). Once hot, add olive oil. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown, working in batches if necessary, then remove and set aside.
3. Deglaze pot: Add a splash of chicken broth to the hot pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom using a wooden spoon. This prevents the “Burn” notice.
4. Combine ingredients: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and remaining chicken broth until well combined.
5. Pressure cook: Return the seared pork chops to the pot, nestling them into the sauce. Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” (High) for 5 minutes.
6. Release pressure: Once cooking is complete, allow a Natural Pressure Release (NPR) for 5-10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
7. Finish sauce: Open the lid, remove the pork chops, and stir in the heavy cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
8. Serve: Return pork chops to the pot, or serve immediately drizzled with the creamy mushroom sauce and garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro-Tip: For the best Instant Pot pork chops, always pat your chops very dry before searing to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust, which adds significant flavor depth through the Maillard reaction. This also prevents rubbery instant pot pork chops.

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2. Tangy BBQ Instant Pot Pork Chops

Craving easy BBQ? Save this recipe for a quick and flavorful dinner!

This recipe uses the Instant Pot to infuse pork chops with a tangy BBQ sauce, highlighting how the pressure cooker delivers deep flavor and tender results. It’s an easy, family-friendly Instant Pot pork chop recipe with a savory BBQ flavor that’s perfect for quick weeknight meals.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops (1.5-inch thick, preferably center-cut)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (or preferred cooking oil)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand, a thick, tangy variety works well)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or apple juice for extra sweetness)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (for tang and tenderization)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (for smoky depth)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Season chops: Pat pork chops dry and season generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Sear pork chops: Add oil to the Instant Pot and set to “Sauté” (Normal). Once hot, sear pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Deglaze and layer: Add chicken broth and apple cider vinegar to the pot, scraping up any browned bits. This is crucial for avoiding the “Burn” notice.
4. Add sauce & chops: Place the seared pork chops back into the Instant Pot. Pour the BBQ sauce evenly over the chops. Do not stir extensively, as thick sauces can trigger a burn notice if they settle directly on the bottom.
5. Pressure cook: Secure the lid, set valve to “Sealing.” Select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” (High) for 8 minutes for 1.5-inch thick bone-in chops.
6. Release pressure: Allow a Natural Pressure Release (NPR) for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
7. Serve: Carefully remove pork chops. If desired, you can thicken the remaining sauce using the “Sauté” function by mixing a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water) and stirring until thickened. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions.

Pro-Tip: When cooking with thick sauces in the Instant Pot, always deglaze the pot thoroughly and then layer ingredients with liquid on the bottom and thick sauce on top, without stirring it in. This technique helps prevent the dreaded “Burn” error and ensures even pressure cooking.

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3. Quick Honey Garlic Instant Pot Pork Chops

Need dinner fast? Pin this irresistible honey garlic recipe to your weeknight meals!

This recipe connects pork chops with a honey garlic sauce entity, prepared using the Instant Pot to create a quick and flavorful meal. It’s a fast, flavorful, and easy Instant Pot pork chop recipe with a popular honey garlic flavor profile. These quick Instant Pot pork chops are perfect for busy schedules.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless pork chops (3/4-inch thick)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1/4 cup honey (local, pure honey)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (reduced sodium)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar (for subtle tang)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (freshly minced for best flavor)
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (or 1/2 tsp ginger powder)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water (for slurry)
• Optional: sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Season & sear: Pat pork chops dry and season with salt and pepper. Set Instant Pot to “Sauté” (Normal). Add oil, sear chops for 2 minutes per side until lightly browned. Remove.
2. Deglaze: Add chicken broth to the pot, scraping up any browned bits.
3. Prepare sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and ginger. Pour into the Instant Pot.
4. Pressure cook: Return pork chops to the pot, ensuring they are partially submerged in the sauce. Close lid, set valve to “Sealing.” Select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” (High) for 4 minutes.
5. Release pressure: Perform a Quick Release (QR) immediately after cooking to prevent overcooking and rubbery texture.
6. Thicken sauce: Remove pork chops. Set Instant Pot to “Sauté” (Normal). Whisk in the cornstarch slurry and simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
7. Serve: Return pork chops to the thickened sauce to coat. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

Pro-Tip: For perfectly tender boneless Instant Pot pork chops, using a Quick Release (QR) prevents them from becoming dry or overcooked, as pork continues to cook from residual heat. This is crucial for thin cuts.

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4. Zesty Salsa Verde Instant Pot Pork Chops

Spice up your dinner! Pin this easy and flavorful salsa verde pork chop recipe.

This recipe uses the Instant Pot to combine pork chops with salsa verde, resulting in a zesty and tender dish. It’s a simple, flavorful Instant Pot pork chop recipe with a Mexican-inspired twist, requiring minimal ingredients. These instant pot pork chops with salsa are a fast and healthy option.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless or bone-in pork chops (1 to 1.5-inch thick)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 (16 oz) jar salsa verde (medium heat preferred)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
• 1 tsp ground cumin (earthy spice)
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (mild heat, for color)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or sour cream for serving

Instructions

1. Season & sear (optional): Pat pork chops dry and season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. If desired for extra flavor, sear in the Instant Pot on “Sauté” with olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side, then remove.
2. Combine ingredients: Pour chicken broth into the Instant Pot. If you seared, deglaze the pot. Add the salsa verde.
3. Pressure cook: Place the seasoned pork chops into the salsa mixture. Close the lid, set valve to “Sealing.” Select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” (High) for 6 minutes (for 1-inch boneless) or 10 minutes (for 1.5-inch bone-in).
4. Release pressure: Allow a Natural Pressure Release (NPR) for 5-10 minutes, then Quick Release any remaining pressure.
5. Shred or serve: Carefully remove pork chops. They will be incredibly tender. You can shred them with two forks for tacos or serve whole. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Pro-Tip: If using frozen Instant Pot pork chops, add 2-3 minutes to the pressure cook time and ensure they are separated before cooking. No need to thaw for this recipe, making it an ideal last-minute meal solution!

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5. Classic Gravy Smothered Instant Pot Pork Chops

Comfort food calling! Pin this recipe for the best gravy smothered pork chops.

This recipe features pork chops smothered in gravy, both expertly prepared using the Instant Pot to achieve tender results. It’s a classic, hearty Instant Pot pork chop recipe with rich gravy, offering comfort and ease. You’ll love these tender instant pot pork chops.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 large onion, thinly sliced (caramelizes for flavor)
• 8 oz sliced mushrooms (optional, for added umami)
• 1 cup beef broth (low sodium, for rich gravy base)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (for depth of flavor)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 3 tbsp cold water (for gravy slurry)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Season & sear: Pat pork chops dry. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and garlic powder. Set Instant Pot to “Sauté” (Normal). Add oil. Sear chops for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Remove.
2. Sauté aromatics: Add sliced onion and mushrooms (if using) to the pot. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened.
3. Deglaze: Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up all browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This is essential for rich flavor and preventing “Burn” notice.
4. Pressure cook: Return pork chops to the pot. Close lid, set valve to “Sealing.” Select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” (High) for 5 minutes.
5. Release pressure: Allow a Natural Pressure Release (NPR) for 10 minutes, then Quick Release any remaining pressure.
6. Make gravy: Remove pork chops. Set Instant Pot to “Sauté” (Normal). Whisk in the cornstarch slurry and simmer, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
7. Serve: Return pork chops to the gravy to coat, or serve smothered over mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Pro-Tip: Creating a flavorful gravy starts with deglazing the pot after searing the pork chops and sautéing the aromatics. The browned bits at the bottom (fond) are packed with concentrated flavor, essential for a rich, restaurant-quality gravy base.

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6. One-Pot Instant Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes

Simplify dinner with this amazing one-pot pork chop and potato Instant Pot meal! Save for later!

This recipe combines pork chops and potatoes within the Instant Pot, demonstrating how the device creates a complete, one-pot meal. It highlights the ultimate convenience of a truly one-pot meal, cooking both pork chops and potatoes to perfection simultaneously. This easy instant pot dinner minimizes cleanup.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless or bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1.5 lbs small red or Yukon gold potatoes, quartered (uniform size for even cooking)
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary (pairs well with pork and potatoes)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Season pork chops: Pat chops dry and season generously with salt, pepper, half of the rosemary, and half of the thyme.
2. Sear (optional): Set Instant Pot to “Sauté” (Normal). Add oil. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. Remove.
3. Prepare potatoes: In a medium bowl, toss quartered potatoes with remaining rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Layer in pot: Pour chicken broth into the Instant Pot. If you seared, deglaze the pot. Place the seared pork chops on the bottom of the pot. Arrange the seasoned potatoes evenly around and on top of the pork chops. Ensure pork chops are not directly on the bottom unless you prefer them more browned.
5. Pressure cook: Close the lid, set valve to “Sealing.” Select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” (High) for 7 minutes.
6. Release pressure: Perform a Quick Release (QR) immediately after cooking to prevent overcooked potatoes and dry pork.
7. Serve: Carefully remove pork chops and potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Pro-Tip: For truly simultaneous cooking of Instant Pot pork chops and potatoes, cut your potatoes into uniform, smaller pieces (like quarters for baby potatoes). This ensures they cook thoroughly in the same amount of time as your pork, preventing undercooked potatoes or overcooked meat.

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7. Flavorful Garlic Parmesan Instant Pot Pork Chops

Elevate your dinner! Pin this rich and flavorful garlic parmesan pork chop recipe.

This recipe combines pork chops with garlic and Parmesan, cooked in the Instant Pot to create a sophisticated and flavorful dish. It’s an Instant Pot pork chop recipe that feels a bit more gourmet but is still easy to execute, delivering bold flavors. These flavorful instant pot pork chops are a true delight.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (freshly minced for intense flavor)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (important for melt and flavor)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for color and freshness)
• 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Season & sear: Pat pork chops dry and season generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Set Instant Pot to “Sauté” (Normal). Add olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Sear chops for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove.
2. Sauté garlic: Add remaining 3 tbsp butter to the pot. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant (do not burn).
3. Deglaze: Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
4. Pressure cook: Return the seared pork chops to the pot. Close the lid, set valve to “Sealing.” Select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” (High) for 5 minutes.
5. Release pressure: Allow a Natural Pressure Release (NPR) for 5 minutes, then Quick Release any remaining pressure.
6. Finish sauce: Remove pork chops. Set Instant Pot to “Sauté” (Low). Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in fresh parsley.
7. Serve: Return pork chops to the sauce to coat or drizzle generously with the garlic Parmesan sauce.

Pro-Tip: For the best Instant Pot garlic Parmesan pork chops, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can make the sauce gritty or prevent smooth melting, impacting the final texture and taste.

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Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to Tender & Juicy Instant Pot Pork Chops

• Always sear your Instant Pot pork chops first to build deep flavor through the Maillard reaction. This crucial step creates a delicious crust and prevents bland taste, especially for tender instant pot pork chops.
• Mastering pressure release is key to achieving truly tender and juicy pork chops. Use a Quick Release (QR) for thinner cuts to prevent overcooking, and a Natural Pressure Release (NPR) for thicker bone-in chops to ensure maximum tenderness and moisture retention.
• Proper liquid and layering techniques prevent the “Burn” notice when using thick sauces. Always deglaze the pot thoroughly and place thick instant pot pork chops bbq sauce on top of the liquid without stirring it in.
• The Instant Pot is a game-changer for quick and easy one-pot meals, even with a delicate protein like pork chops. Combine instant pot pork chops and potatoes in a single pot for minimal cleanup and efficient cooking.
• Don’t shy away from cooking frozen pork chops in your Instant Pot for last-minute meals. Simply adjust the instant pot pork chops cooking time by adding a few minutes to the pressure cook cycle.
• Fresh ingredients, especially herbs and quality Parmesan, significantly elevate the flavor profile of any Instant Pot pork chop recipe. Opt for freshly minced garlic and grated cheese for the flavorful instant pot pork chops you crave.

FAQs About Instant Pot Pork Chops

How long do you cook pork chops in an Instant Pot?

For 1-inch thick boneless pork chops, cook for 4-5 minutes on High Pressure, followed by a 5-minute Natural Pressure Release (NPR) then Quick Release (QR). For 1.5-inch thick bone-in pork chops, increase to 8-10 minutes on High Pressure with a 10-minute NPR. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for food safety.

Can you cook frozen pork chops in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can absolutely cook frozen pork chops in an Instant Pot without thawing first. Simply add 2-3 minutes to the high pressure cooking time compared to thawed chops. Ensure they are separated before cooking to allow for even pressure distribution, which helps prevent instant pot pork chops not cooking through.

Why are my Instant Pot pork chops tough or dry?

Instant Pot pork chops often turn out tough or dry due to overcooking or incorrect pressure release. Overcooking, especially with thin boneless chops, rapidly dries them out. Using a Quick Release for thin chops and a longer Natural Pressure Release for thicker cuts helps retain moisture, preventing rubbery instant pot pork chops.

What kind of pork chops are best for the Instant Pot?

Thicker, fattier cuts like bone-in rib chops or pork loin chops (1 to 1.5 inches thick) are generally best for the Instant Pot as they remain more tender and juicy. While boneless chops work well, they require careful timing and often a quick release to prevent them from drying out quickly under pressure, ensuring tender instant pot pork chops.

How do you make gravy for Instant Pot pork chops?

To make gravy for Instant Pot pork chops, first sauté your pork and aromatics, then pressure cook the chops with liquid. After removing the cooked chops, add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and cold water) to the remaining liquid in the pot while on the “Sauté” function. Whisk continuously until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency, creating a rich instant pot pork chops and gravy.

What should you serve with Instant Pot pork chops?

Instant Pot pork chops pair wonderfully with classic comfort sides like creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or roasted asparagus. For a more complete meal, consider fluffy white rice to soak up sauces, or a simple side salad. Many recipes, like our one-pot instant pot pork chops and potatoes, also incorporate vegetables directly.

Is it necessary to brown pork chops before pressure cooking?

While not strictly necessary for food safety, browning (searing) pork chops before pressure cooking is highly recommended for superior flavor and appearance. This step creates a delicious caramelized crust through the Maillard reaction, locking in juices and adding depth that simply boiling cannot achieve, making your delicious instant pot pork chops even better.

How much liquid do you need for Instant Pot pork chops?

For Instant Pot pork chops, you generally need at least 1/2 cup of liquid to allow the pot to come to pressure safely and prevent a “Burn” notice. This liquid can be chicken broth, water, apple juice, or a thin sauce. The liquid creates the steam necessary for pressure cooking.

What temperature should Instant Pot pork chops be?

Instant Pot pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, or 160°F (71°C) for well-done, followed by a 3-minute rest. Always use an instant-read meat thermometer to verify doneness, ensuring safe instant pot pork chops cooking and preventing overcooking for maximum juiciness.

Can you overcook pork chops in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can absolutely overcook pork chops in an Instant Pot, which is a common reason why they might turn out dry or tough. While pressure cooking speeds up the process, precise timing and the correct pressure release method are crucial. A few extra minutes under pressure can quickly lead to avoid rubbery instant pot pork chops.

Final Thoughts on Instant Pot Pork Chops

The Instant Pot has truly revolutionized the way we approach weeknight dinners, especially when it comes to a notoriously tricky protein like pork chops. By harnessing the power of pressure cooking, you can consistently achieve tender and juicy instant pot pork chops that are packed with flavor, all in a fraction of the time of traditional methods. No more dry, tough results – just succulent, satisfying meals that the whole family will love.

Whether you prefer a rich, creamy sauce, a tangy BBQ glaze, or a zesty salsa kick, these 7 tested instant pot pork chop recipes offer a diverse range of flavors to keep your meal rotation exciting. Remember the key takeaways: sear for flavor, choose your pressure release carefully, and don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite seasonings and sides. With your Instant Pot and these reliable recipes, making instant pot pork chops is not just easy, it’s guaranteed to be delicious. What delicious pork chop creation will you whip up first?

Last update on 2025-12-17 at 02:38 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API