These honey garlic pork chops are a sweet and savory treat! With a sticky glaze made from honey and garlic, they are full of flavor and super easy to whip up on a busy weeknight.
I love how the honey adds a nice touch that makes these chops feel special. Serve them with rice or veggies, and dinner is ready in no time—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are delicious because the bone adds flavor. If you have boneless chops or pork loin, you can use those instead. Just adjust the cooking time since they may cook faster.
Honey: This ingredient gives the dish its sweet glaze. If you don’t have honey, maple syrup works well too, but it will give a different flavor. Agave nectar is another good substitute if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides the best flavor, but you can substitute it with garlic powder. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove. Just remember, fresh is always more aromatic!
Soy Sauce: This adds a nice umami depth. You can also use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option. If you need it gluten-free, consider tamari or coconut aminos as a tasty alternative.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky, but I have some tips to help you succeed! Start by bringing the chops to room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly.
- Always pat the pork chops dry before seasoning and cooking. This helps achieve that lovely sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 145°F for juicy chops. If you don’t have one, cook until they’re nicely browned and juices run clear.
- Let the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps them juicy!
With these tips and ingredient swaps, you’ll have a fantastic meal that’s both flavorful and satisfying!
How to Make Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes around 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes getting everything ready and then just 20 minutes cooking up those tasty pork chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork Chops
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them get that nice brown color when cooked! Season both sides of the chops generously with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Chops
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. Check with a meat thermometer to make sure they’ve reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
3. Rest the Chops
Once the chops are done, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate. Cover them loosely with foil to keep warm while you make the sauce.
4. Make the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, being careful not to let it burn!
5. Combine the Sauce Ingredients
Add the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar into the pan. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan from the pork chops.
6. Simmer the Sauce
Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes. You’ll notice it thickening up nicely — this is what makes it so special!
7. Glaze the Chops
Return the pork chops to the skillet and coat them well with the honey garlic sauce. Cook for another minute to reheat the chops and allow the glaze to stick beautifully to them.
8. Serve and Garnish
Transfer the pork chops onto a serving plate. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the top and sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color.
9. Enjoy!
Serve your honey garlic pork chops hot with your favorite sides, like steamed vegetables, fluffy rice, or creamy mashed potatoes. Enjoy the wonderful flavors!
These sweet and savory glazed pork chops are sure to impress! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Boneless pork chops will cook a bit faster, so be sure to check for doneness at around 3-4 minutes per side. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if they seem dry.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the honey garlic sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just reheat the sauce before adding freshly cooked pork chops, ensuring they’re warmed through.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of honey by half and add a touch more soy sauce for balance. Taste and adjust as needed, adding a small amount of sugar if you want a sweeter finish.
