Ancho Chile Pork Chops Recipe

Ignite your taste buds with these fiery Ancho Chile Pork Chops! Marinated in a smoky, spicy ancho chili sauce, these juicy pork chops are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. This recipe, adapted from Cooking Light (March 2003), delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Easily adjust the spice level to your preference – add an extra chili for extra heat! Prep time excludes the 8-hour marinating time, allowing for maximum flavor infusion.

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Calories 392.3 kcal
Protein 88g
Rating 4.9 (7 Reviews)
Ancho Chile Pork Chops

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Ancho Chile Pork Chops

  • 4-6 ancho chilies
  • Garlic Clove
  • Chicken Broth
  • Oregano
  • Pepper
  • Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon allspice
  • Apple Cider Vinegar
  • Brown Sugar
  • Onion Salt
  • 4 pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
  • Lemon
  • Pam Cooking Spray

How to Make Ancho Chile Pork Chops

  1. Remove stems and seeds from 4-6 ancho chilies.
  2. Tear chilies into small pieces.
  3. Spray a medium skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium heat.
  4. Add chili pieces and cook for 15 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  5. Add 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 2 minutes.
  6. Add ½ cup chicken broth and 1 teaspoon allspice to the chili and garlic mixture.
  7. Stir in 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar.
  8. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
  9. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  10. Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth, using on/off pulses to avoid overheating.
  11. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chili mixture and cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
  12. Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice.
  13. Place 4 pork chops (about 1 inch thick) in a large marinating dish or zip-top bag.
  14. Pour the chili sauce over the pork chops, ensuring they are fully coated.
  15. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight.
  16. Preheat your grill or broiler. Lightly spray the grill grates or broiler pan with cooking spray.
  17. Remove pork chops from marinade and place on the preheated grill or broiler pan.
  18. If grilling, grill for 5-10 minutes per side, basting frequently with the remaining marinade, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  19. If broiling, place the broiler rack 6 inches from the heat source. Broil for 5-10 minutes per side, basting frequently with the marinade, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  20. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of the chops and desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure food safety.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

12 g

Sugar

3g

Fat

30g

Carbs

2g