These honey garlic pork chops are juicy and packed with flavor! The sweet honey and savory garlic sauce creates a delightful glaze to make your taste buds dance.
Who doesn’t love a dinner that’s ready in no time? Just sear the chops, pour on the sauce, and let them cook. Trust me, you’ll want to make extras for leftovers! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are my go-to because they stay juicy during cooking. If you only have boneless chops, they’ll work too, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they cook faster.
Honey: Use a good-quality honey for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, consider using agave syrup or maple syrup instead; the taste will vary slightly, but it’ll still be delicious.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds depth to the dish. For a gluten-free option, use tamari. If you’re watching your sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce is a great alternative.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds acidity and balances the sweetness. If you don’t have it, lemon juice works well too. Just remember, a little goes a long way!
Garlic: Fresh is best for this recipe! If you’re short on fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder (1/8 tsp per clove) as a last resort.
How Do I Get the Perfect Sear on My Pork Chops?
Searing is crucial to caramelize the meat and lock in juices. To achieve the perfect sear:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the pork chops.
- Pat the chops dry with paper towels; moisture can prevent browning.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan! Cook in batches if necessary.
- Let them sear undisturbed for the full time on each side before flipping.
Taking these steps will give your pork chops a rich, golden crust while keeping them juicy inside, creating the best honey garlic flavor you’ll love!
Best Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt, to taste
- 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 lemon juice)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes to cook. So in just 25 minutes, you can have this flavorful dish ready to serve! Perfect for a weekday dinner or a fancy family meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a great sear. Season both sides of the chops generously with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it.
2. Sear the Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the pan. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are beautifully golden brown and nearly cooked through. This will create a delicious crust!
3. Add the Garlic:
Once seared, take the pork chops out of the skillet and place them on a plate. Reduce the heat to medium, then add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn.
4. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
Next, stir in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to deglaze it and mix in all those flavorful bits that cooked with the pork.
5. Glaze the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon some of that tasty sauce over them. Let them cook for another 2-3 minutes, turning them once or twice, until the sauce thickens into a lovely glaze and the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once cooked, Remove the skillet from the heat. Let the pork chops rest on a plate for 3-5 minutes to keep them juicy. If you like, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your honey garlic pork chops are ready to be served! Pair them with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies for a complete meal. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops work great in this recipe! Just be aware they may cook faster, so keep an eye on the cooking time and check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if they need moisture.
What Should I Serve with Honey Garlic Pork Chops?
This dish pairs well with various sides! Try serving it with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh salad can also make for a nice complement!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the sauce and season the pork chops ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and cook them just before serving for the best results.
