If you’ve ever found yourself needing to make a quick dinner only to realize your pork chops are frozen solid you know how frustrating it can be to wait for them to thaw. This is where using an Instant Pot can save the day! With an Instant Pot you can defrost and cook pork chops safely and quickly.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the simple process of defrosting pork chops in an Instant Pot using both manual settings and the defrost function. I’ve also included tips for prepping the pork chops, suggested cook times, and delicious Instant Pot pork chop recipes to try Let’s get started!
Benefits of Using an Instant Pot to Defrost Pork
Defrosting pork chops in an Instant Pot offers several advantages over leaving them out on the counter or microwaving:
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Speed – An Instant Pot can defrost pork chops in 10-15 minutes significantly faster than other methods.
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Safety – The controlled temperature avoids bacterial growth associated with room temp thawing.
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Quality – Even, pressurized heat defrosts meat gently to retain moisture and texture.
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Convenience – Defrost and cook pork chops in the same pot!
The quick defrost time means you can go from frozen to dinner in under an hour with minimal effort.
Step 1 – Prepare the Pork Chops
Start with 1-2 bone-in or boneless pork chops that are about 1 pound total weight. If they are pre-seasoned or browned, you are good to go. If not:
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Season with salt, pepper, herbs, or dry rub before freezing.
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Quickly brown chops before freezing for added flavor (optional).
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Frozen plain chops can also be seasoned before cooking.
Step 2 – Add Liquid
Add 1 cup water or chicken broth to pot. The liquid evenly transmits heat and prevents burning.
For extra flavor, use chicken broth or marinade ingredients like apple cider vinegar.
Step 3 – Add Pork Chops
Place frozen pork chops in a single layer in pot. Do not overcrowd.
Defrosting 2 chops? Arrange them side-by-side or slightly overlapping.
Step 4 – Pressure Cook (Manual Method)
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Seal lid and pressure valve.
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Select Pressure Cook or Manual setting and set time based on thickness:
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1-inch chops: 5 minutes
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1 1/2-inch chops: 7 minutes
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2-inch chops: 10 minutes
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Allow 10-15 minutes natural release, then quick release.
The time under pressure gently brings the chops to a safe 140°F for defrosting.
Step 5 – Use Defrost Function
If your Instant Pot has a defrost setting:
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Add liquid and chops as above.
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Select defrost mode and input weight of chops.
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The machine will automatically determine time needed to defrost.
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After defrost cycle, allow 10 minute natural then quick release.
This takes the guesswork out of timing!
Step 6 – Finish and Serve
Once defrosted, the chops can be finished by:
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Browning in a skillet or Instant Pot with sauté mode
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Cooking in a sauce or gravy
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Grilling for a few minutes per side
Check internal temperature before serving. Pork should reach 145°F.
Then relax and enjoy your tender, juicy pork chops, even on a busy weeknight!
Tips for Defrosting Pork in an Instant Pot
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Don’t overcrowd pot. Chops need space to defrost evenly.
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Cut thicker chops in half or layers to defrost faster.
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Increase time for thicker/heavier chops. Check if still icy.
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Add spices, herbs, onions, garlic, vinegar to liquid for flavor.
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Let chops rest 5 minutes before searing or grilling.
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Cook to proper internal temperature before serving.
With some simple guidelines, you can defrost pork safely and quickly for any recipe.
Delicious Instant Pot Pork Chop Recipes
Once you’ve mastered the process of defrosting pork chops in your Instant Pot, here are some tasty recipes to try:
Easy Instant Pot BBQ Pork Chops
Coat defrosted chops in barbecue spice rub and quick brown before pressure cooking in BBQ sauce and broth.
Instant Pot Pork Chops and Gravy
Defrost chops then pressure cook in a rich gravy made from chicken broth, onion, and cream of mushroom soup.
Healthy Instant Pot Hawaiian Pork Chops
Pressure cook defrosted chops in a pineapple and soy sauce marinade for a saucy, sweet entree.
Instant Pot Mexican Spiced Pork Chops
Rub pork chops with chili powder, cumin, and oregano before pressure cooking in salsa, stock, and diced chiles.
Instant Pot Italian Herb Pork Chops
Marinate chops in a zesty Italian dressing before pressure cooking until tender and flavorful.
Instant Pot Applesauce Pork Chops
Top defrosted chops with applesauce and spices before pressure cooking for a quick and easy one-pot meal.
The options are endless for turning defrosted pork chops into a fast and delicious dinner!
Common Questions about Defrosting Pork in an Instant Pot
Can you defrost pork chops directly from frozen in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Thanks to the controlled pressurized environment, you can safely defrost and cook pork chops straight from the freezer.
How long does it take to defrost pork chops in an Instant Pot?
1-inch thick chops take 5 mins, 1 1/2-inches 7 mins, and 2-inches 10 mins. Timings may vary based on amount of chops and Instant Pot model.
Should you add liquid when defrosting meat in an Instant Pot?
Yes, adding 1 cup broth or water ensures even heating and prevents food from burning.
Is it okay to refreeze pork chops after defrosting in an Instant Pot?
It is not recommended. Refreezing after defrosting causes moisture loss and texture changes. Use defrosted chops within a few days.
Can you overcook pork chops while defrosting them in an Instant Pot?
It is possible if cooked for too long. Refer to suggested times in this article and use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.