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Delicious slow cooker balsamic cranberry pork chops served on a plate.

Balsamic Cranberry Pork Chops

A flavorful dish combining sweet and tangy ingredients, these slow-cooked pork chops are tender and juicy, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces boneless pork chops
  • 14 oz whole berry cranberry sauce
  • 0.25 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth
Flavorings
  • 3 pieces garlic cloves, minced
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce Thickener
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon cold water

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Lightly grease a 4 to 6-quart slow cooker and arrange the pork chops in the bottom.
  2. In a bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and chicken broth.
  3. Add the minced garlic, onion powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir until mixed well.
  4. Pour the cranberry mixture evenly over the pork chops.
Cooking
  1. Cover and cook on LOW for 3 to 5 hours or HIGH for 1.5 to 3 hours, checking earlier for thin chops.
  2. Once the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees F, remove it and let it rest for at least 3 minutes.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth.
  4. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the cranberry sauce in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on HIGH for 10 to 15 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
  5. Spoon the warm cranberry balsamic sauce over the pork chops and serve.

Notes

Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like rosemary or a pinch of red pepper flakes.