These honey garlic pork chops are juicy and full of sweet and savory flavor! With just a handful of ingredients, they come together quickly for a tasty dinner.
You’ll love how the honey caramelizes and makes a sticky glaze. I like to serve them with rice to soak up all that yummy sauce—trust me, it’s a win-win! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend using bone-in chops for added flavor and moisture. You can substitute boneless chops if needed; just watch the cooking time since they may cook faster.
Honey: This is the star! If you’re out of honey, maple syrup can work as a sweet alternative, but the flavor will differ slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can be a quick substitute; about 1 teaspoon should do. Just add it directly to the sauce!
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds a nice tang, but white vinegar or lemon juice can also work well in a pinch. They will change the flavor slightly but will still be delicious.
Red Pepper Flakes: These provide a kick! If you don’t like heat, feel free to skip or use a sprinkle of black pepper instead for just a bit of warmth.
How Do I Get a Perfect Sear on My Pork Chops?
Searing is crucial for adding flavor and texture! Start with dry pork chops by patting them down with paper towels; this helps them get that lovely golden crust. Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil and chops to ensure a great sear.
- Use medium-high heat for initial searing, and don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed.
- Once you place the chops in the skillet, resist the urge to flip them too soon. Let them brown for 4-5 minutes before turning.
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; they should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfect, juicy pork!
Best Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. So in total, you’ll need about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. 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 step is important as it helps get a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully place the pork chops in the skillet and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness. Once cooked, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—be careful not to let it burn! Then, stir in the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
4. Glaze the Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to make sure they’re well-glazed. Cook them in the sauce for another 1-2 minutes to infuse the flavor.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat. To finish, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped parsley over the pork chops for a lovely garnish. Serve your sticky, sweet, and savory honey garlic pork chops warm, drizzling any extra sauce over them. They pair beautifully with steamed rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
Enjoy your perfectly glazed, juicy honey garlic pork chops! You’re sure to impress your family and friends with this delightful dish!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for a 3-4 minute sear on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute soy sauce with tamari, which is gluten-free. You can also use coconut aminos as a soy sauce alternative for a different flavor profile.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
How Can I Thicken the Sauce More?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce while it’s simmering, and cook for an additional minute until it thickens to your liking.
