These honey garlic pork chops are a sweet and savory treat, perfect for any dinner table! With just a few simple ingredients, you can make juicy, flavorful chops that everyone will love.
I can’t resist the sweet glaze that makes these chops shine. They’re so easy to whip up, and they pair wonderfully with rice or veggies. Quick cooking means more family time! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for flavor and moisture, but boneless ones work too. If you prefer chicken, try using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a similar dish!
Honey: This adds sweetness and depth. If you’re out, maple syrup can be a nice alternative. Just remember, it may change the flavor slightly!
Soy Sauce: It adds saltiness and umami. For a lower sodium option, use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos. If you’re gluten-free, use tamari instead.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This is optional but adds a nice acidity. You can substitute with white vinegar or lemon juice if you want that extra tang.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor. If you have garlic powder on hand, you can use 1/8 teaspoon per clove, but fresh is definitely my go-to for this recipe!
How Do I Get Perfectly Seared Pork Chops?
Searing your pork chops gives them a golden crust and locks in juices. Here are my tips to get that perfect sear:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the pork chops. This is key for a rich, brown crust.
- Pat the pork chops dry; moisture prevents a good sear. If you skip this step, they’ll steam instead of sizzle.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary. Too many chops can drop the pan temperature.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. You’re aiming for 145°F (63°C) for juicy, safe pork.
With these steps, your pork chops will be perfectly seared every time! Enjoy cooking!
Best Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a slight tang)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- Fresh rosemary leaves (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious honey garlic pork chops recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This is important because it helps them sear nicely. Then, season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. You should hear a nice sizzle! Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden-brown and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate to rest.
3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Pour in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar (if you’re using it). Stir everything together, letting the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes so it can thicken slightly.
4. Finish the Dish:
Add the thyme leaves to the sauce and mix them in. Now, return the pork chops to the skillet, ensuring they get coated nicely in that yummy honey garlic sauce. Let them simmer in the sauce for another 2 minutes, spooning the glaze over them to soak up all that great flavor.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from heat and, if you’d like, garnish with fresh rosemary leaves. Serve your delicious honey garlic pork chops immediately, spooning any remaining sauce over the top. They pair wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables!
Enjoy this delightful sweet and savory dish with your loved ones!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! You can use boneless pork chops, but be mindful of cooking time. They may cook a bit quicker, so check for doneness at around 3-4 minutes per side to prevent them from drying out.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of honey by a tablespoon or so. Alternatively, you can balance it with a splash more soy sauce or apple cider vinegar for tanginess.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can sear the pork chops and make the sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently in the skillet until warmed through, then coat with the sauce before serving.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, with a splash of water to keep them moist.
