Slow Cooker BBQ Pork Chops – Tender and Juicy

Slow Cooker BBQ Pork Chops

There’s nothing quite like coming home to the aroma of slow-cooked pork chops glazed in tangy barbecue sauce. This easy slow cooker recipe delivers incredibly tender, fall-apart meat with minimal effort. Simply combine your ingredients in the morning, and dinner practically makes itself by evening.

Ingredients

• 6 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 medium onion, sliced

Instructions

1. Season both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Layer the sliced onion on the bottom of your slow cooker.
3. Arrange the seasoned pork chops on top of the onions.
4. In a bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
5. Pour the sauce mixture over the pork chops, making sure they are well coated.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
7. Serve the pork chops with the sauce spooned over top.

Practical Tips

Tip 1: For extra tender results, cook on low for the full 8 hours rather than rushing on high heat. Low and slow cooking allows the connective tissues in the meat to break down completely, resulting in more succulent pork.

Tip 2: Don’t skip the onion layer at the bottom of your slow cooker. It prevents the pork chops from sticking and adds natural sweetness and flavor to the sauce as it cooks.

Tip 3: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the cooked pork chops and transfer the liquid to a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.

How to Store

Store leftover pork chops and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the slow cooker on low or in a skillet over medium-low heat. You can also freeze the cooked pork chops and sauce together for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Common Questions

Can I use boneless pork chops instead? Yes, boneless pork chops work well in this recipe. Reduce the cooking time slightly, checking for tenderness after 5 hours on low or 2.5 hours on high, as they cook faster than bone-in chops.

What should I serve with these pork chops? These pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, or steamed vegetables. The sauce is perfect for drizzling over rice or serving alongside baked beans.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance? Yes, you can assemble all ingredients except the pork chops the night before and refrigerate them. Add the seasoned pork chops in the morning before turning on the slow cooker for convenient meal planning.