Ingredients:

  • 4 center-cut pork chops (1-inch thick, approx 7 oz each)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp fresh cracked black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme

Instructions:

  1. Pat the pork chops bone-dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the pork.
  2. Heat avocado oil in a 12-inch cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place chops in the pan and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until a deep mahogany crust forms. Remove chops to a plate and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in the brown sugar, soy sauce, and thyme to create the glaze.
  4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the bubbling glaze over the meat. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (approx 5-8 minutes).