Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Pork Chops
There’s something wonderfully comforting about tender, juicy pork chops infused with rich garlic butter. This slow cooker recipe transforms simple ingredients into an elegant dinner that practically cooks itself. Whether you’re planning a weeknight meal or impressing guests, these garlic butter pork chops deliver restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Pat the pork chops dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and butter until well combined.
- Spread half of the garlic butter on the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Place the pork chops in a single layer on top of the garlic butter.
- Spread the remaining garlic butter over the pork chops and pour the chicken broth around them.
- Sprinkle with fresh thyme.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 2.5 hours, until the pork is tender and cooked through.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Practical Tips
- For extra flavor and a golden crust, sear the pork chops in a hot skillet for 2 minutes per side before adding them to the slow cooker. This step is optional but highly recommended.
- Don’t skip patting the pork chops dry before seasoning. This helps the spices adhere better and promotes better browning if you choose to sear them.
- Bone-in pork chops stay juicier and more flavorful than boneless varieties during slow cooking, so choose them whenever possible for best results.
How to Store
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth to maintain tenderness. These pork chops also freeze well for up to 2 months when stored in a freezer-safe container.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops instead? Yes, you can use boneless pork chops, but reduce the cooking time by about 30 minutes. Boneless cuts cook faster and may become dry if overcooked, so check for doneness earlier.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe? These garlic butter pork chops pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Can I make this recipe in the oven instead? Absolutely. Transfer the prepared ingredients to a covered baking dish and bake at 325°F for about 45 minutes to 1 hour until the pork is tender and cooked through.