Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Cornstarch-Coated Pork Chops (Easy & Tender)
If you’re looking for a simple, budget-friendly slow cooker pork chop recipe, these 5-ingredient cornstarch-coated pork chops are a must-try. Made with pantry staples and minimal prep, this recipe creates fork-tender pork chops with a naturally thickened, silky sauce—no cream soups or complicated steps required.
Perfect for busy weeknights, picky eaters, or anyone who loves comforting, homemade meals, this dish proves that less really can be more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Only 5 simple ingredients
No searing required
Naturally thickened sauce (no extra slurry)
Tender, juicy pork every time
Kid-friendly and customizable
Perfect for meal prep or family dinners
Ingredients
You only need a handful of everyday ingredients:
4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup chicken broth
Equipment Needed
Slow cooker (4–6 quart)
Paper towels
Shallow bowl or plate
Tongs or clean hands
Meat thermometer (recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry thoroughly with paper towels. This is an important step because removing excess moisture helps the cornstarch coating stick properly and cook evenly.
Step 2: Mix the Coating
In a shallow bowl or plate, combine:
Cornstarch
Salt
Black pepper
Stir well so the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the cornstarch.
Step 3: Coat the Pork Chops
Lightly coat each pork chop in the cornstarch mixture. Shake off any excess so there’s just a thin, even layer. This coating will help tenderize the meat and naturally thicken the sauce as it cooks.
Step 4: Arrange in the Slow Cooker
Place the coated pork chops in the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange them in a single layer as much as possible to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Add the Chicken Broth
Gently pour the chicken broth around the pork chops, not directly on top. This helps keep the coating intact. Don’t worry if a little coating washes off—it will help create a light gravy during cooking.
Step 6: Slow Cook
Cover and cook:
LOW: 5–6 hours
HIGH: 2½–3 hours
The pork chops are done when they are tender and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 7: Finish the Sauce
Carefully remove the pork chops to a serving plate. Stir the sauce left in the slow cooker. It should already be slightly thickened from the cornstarch.
For a thicker sauce:
Turn the slow cooker to HIGH, leave the lid off, and let the sauce simmer for 5–10 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 8: Serve
Spoon the warm sauce over the pork chops. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or black pepper if needed. Serve hot.
Variations & Customization Ideas
Extra Flavor: Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder to the cornstarch mixture
Creamy Version: Stir in ¼–½ cup sour cream or a splash of heavy cream during the last 15 minutes
Slightly Sweet: Replace half the chicken broth with apple juice or add 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Bone-In Pork Chops: Use bone-in chops and add about 30 minutes to LOW cooking time
One-Pot Meal: Add baby potatoes and carrot chunks around the pork chops (cut small for even cooking)
Serving Suggestions
These slow cooker pork chops pair beautifully with:
Mashed potatoes or rice
Buttered egg noodles
Steamed green beans or peas
Roasted carrots or broccoli
Dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up the sauce
Storage & Reheating Tips
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Freezer: Freeze pork chops with sauce for up to 2 months
Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave with a little extra broth if needed
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Cornstarch-Coated Pork Chop recipe is proof that you don’t need a long ingredient list to make a delicious, comforting meal. With tender pork, a simple homemade sauce, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.