These Honey Garlic Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor! The sweet honey and tangy garlic combine perfectly to create a tasty glaze that really makes the pork shine.
I love how easy they are to make—just cook them in a pan and let that yummy sauce work its magic. You’ll want to make this dish again and again, trust me! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are best for flavor and moisture, especially when cooked. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops work too! Just be aware they may cook faster.
Honey: This is the star of the dish. You can use maple syrup or agave syrup as a substitute for a different flavor profile, but honey adds a unique sweetness that’s hard to beat!
Garlic: Fresh garlic leads to the best flavor. If you have garlic powder on hand, you can use about 1 teaspoon as a substitute, but fresh really makes a difference in taste.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free version, try tamari or coconut aminos. If you’re watching your sodium intake, look for low-sodium soy sauce or balance it out with a bit of water!
How Do I Achieve a Deliciously Seared Pork Chop?
Getting that golden crust on your pork chop is key to enhancing the flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is preheated. Test by adding a drop of water; it should sizzle!
- Pat the chops dry to avoid steaming them. This helps create a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give each chop enough space to brown properly. If necessary, sear them in batches.
- Let them sear without moving them for at least 3-4 minutes on each side. This time allows it to develop that perfect crust.
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
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish. Quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with a paper towel. This will help them sear better. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. You want a nice seasoning to enhance the flavors!
2. Searing the Pork Chops:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until you get a beautiful golden-brown crust. Once they’re seared, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Making the Honey Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Just be careful not to burn it! Then, pour in the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and add the red pepper flakes if you’d like an extra kick. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens a bit.
4. Combining Pork Chops and Sauce:
Return the seared pork chops back to the skillet. Spoon some of that delicious sauce over each chop. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the chops cook for another 3-5 minutes, turning them once. You want them to be cooked through and nicely coated with the sauce.
5. Finishing and Serving:
Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the chops for a lovely touch of color and flavor. Serve your honey garlic pork chops hot, drizzling extra sauce over the top as you please.
Enjoy your perfectly glazed, tender honey garlic pork chops! They pair wonderfully with steamed rice or mashed potatoes and a fresh side of vegetables. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, but they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Make sure to check for doneness around the 3-4 minute mark on each side to avoid overcooking.
How Long Should I Cook the Pork Chops?
Cooking time for pork chops typically ranges from 12 to 15 minutes in total. The key is to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe eating. Use a meat thermometer for the most accurate results!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! You can increase the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste, or even add a dash of hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce for an extra kick.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a different flavor, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup. Just keep in mind that this might slightly alter the sweetness and flavor profile of the dish.
