These Whole30 Instant Pot Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor! You can whip them up quickly, making them perfect for busy nights without sacrificing taste.
Honestly, the Instant Pot makes everything easier! I love how tender the chops turn out, and they pair nicely with just about any veggie. My family always asks for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Thick-cut boneless chops (about 1 inch) work best for this recipe. However, you can substitute with bone-in chops, just be mindful they may require a minute or two more cooking time.
Olive Oil/Avocado Oil: For sautéing, I prefer avocado oil for its high smoke point, but olive oil is great too. If you need a nut-free option, canola oil or ghee can also work.
Onion: A yellow onion adds nice sweetness, but you can use white or even red onions if that’s what you have on hand.
Mushrooms: I usually use button or cremini mushrooms, but feel free to try shiitake or portobello for a richer flavor.
Chicken Broth: Always make sure it’s Whole30 compliant—no added sugars! You can swap with vegetable broth as a plant-based option.
How Do You Get the Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
Searing the pork chops adds great flavor and the right texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your Instant Pot is hot enough—give it a few minutes on “Sauté” mode.
- Coat the bottom with oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the chops in the pot without crowding them. Let them sit untouched for 2-3 minutes before flipping.
- Don’t rush! It’s this browning that locks in flavor, so be patient and let each side brown nicely.
These tips will help you achieve a beautifully seared pork chop that’s moist and delicious inside! Enjoy your cooking!
Whole30 Instant Pot Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (thick cut, about 1 inch)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- 1 cup chicken broth (make sure Whole30 compliant, no added sugars)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (no added sugars, Whole30 compliant)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or rosemary sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe generally takes about 30 minutes: 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking and pressure release. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
First, season both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. This will give them great flavor right from the start!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Turn your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add the oil. Once it’s hot, carefully place the pork chops in the pot and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they have a lovely brown color. After browning, take the chops out and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onions to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and become translucent. Then, stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they release their moisture and start to brown.
4. Add Garlic and Deglaze:
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, and make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to get up any browned bits—this adds great flavor!
5. Cook the Pork Chops:
Now, return the seared pork chops to the pot. Nestle them into the liquid and mushroom mixture. Close the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on High Pressure for 8 minutes.
6. Release the Pressure:
Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully do a quick release for any remaining pressure.
7. Serve:
Remove the pork chops from the pot and let them rest on a plate for a few minutes. If you’d like to thicken the sauce, you can turn the Instant Pot back on “Sauté” and simmer the sauce for a few minutes. To serve, plate the pork chops and drizzle with the mushroom and onion sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or rosemary for a lovely touch!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful, Whole30-friendly Instant Pot pork chops!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops! Just be aware they may require an additional minute or two of cooking time. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you prefer, you can swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep it plant-based. Just ensure it’s Whole30 compliant with no added sugars or preservatives.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Mushrooms?
Absolutely! If mushrooms aren’t your thing, you can omit them. You might want to replace them with sautéed zucchini, spinach, or additional onions for flavor and texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth if the sauce thickens too much.