These honey garlic pork chops are sweet, sticky, and oh-so-delicious! Just the right mix of flavors makes them a hit at any dinner table.
Honestly, who can resist that shiny glaze? I always serve them with rice to soak up the extra sauce. It’s like a little flavor party on my plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor due to the bones, but boneless works too if you prefer. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using pork loin or pork tenderloin instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for this recipe. If you’re short on time, you can use jarred minced garlic, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant. Personally, I love the strong kick of fresh garlic!
Honey: Use pure honey for sweetness. If you’re vegan, substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar. Both will give a nice, sweet glaze.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos! I find tamari offers a very similar taste without the gluten.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds acidity and balance. If you don’t have it, rice vinegar or white vinegar can do the job. Each will bring a slightly different flavor profile, but they’ll still work well.
How Do I Get the Perfect Sear on My Pork Chops?
Getting a good sear on the pork chops is key to locking in flavor and juiciness. Start with these steps:
- Make sure the pork chops are at room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Pat them dry well with paper towels to remove excess moisture. A dry surface is crucial for a good sear.
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot! Adding the chops to a hot skillet creates that desired crust.
- Don’t crowd the skillet; give each chop enough space for airflow. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Avoid moving the chops around too much. Let them cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes on each side.
These tips will help you achieve beautifully seared pork chops that are golden brown and delicious!
Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus another 15-20 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes to create this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper. A little seasoning goes a long way in enhancing the flavor!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it starts to shimmer. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet, making sure not to crowd them. Sear the chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant but be careful not to burn it! Next, pour in the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken and become glossy.
4. Coat the Pork Chops:
Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, and spoon the sauce over them to coat well. Allow the chops to cook in the sauce for an additional 1-2 minutes, which will help them absorb all that delicious flavor!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the pork chops are well-coated in sauce, remove the skillet from the heat. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh thyme or parsley on top for garnish. Serve your yummy honey garlic pork chops immediately alongside rice or your favorite side dish to soak up that tasty glaze. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking! Thaw them in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear.
What Can I Use Instead of Honey?
If you’re looking for an alternative to honey, maple syrup or agave nectar works great! Both will bring sweetness, although the flavor may vary slightly. Choose one that suits your taste preferences!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overcook!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time! Just cook the pork chops when you’re ready to serve. The sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it on the stove before coating the cooked pork chops for serving.
