Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Why You’ll Love It
Honey Garlic Pork Chops are a perfect blend of sweet and savory with a sticky glaze that makes every bite irresistible. This recipe is incredibly easy and quick, ideal for busy weeknights when you still want a homemade dinner. The pork chops stay juicy and tender, while the honey-garlic sauce adds a rich flavor without overpowering the meat. Plus, minimal ingredients mean less prep and cleanup.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (can substitute avocado oil or vegetable oil)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic is best; garlic powder can work in a pinch)
- 1/4 cup honey (maple syrup or agave nectar for alternatives)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (tamari for gluten-free version)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (white vinegar or lemon juice can be used)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional but adds freshness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pat pork chops dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the pork chops and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until nicely browned and cooked through (internal temp 145°F).
- Remove chops from skillet and place on a plate; cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
- Add minced garlic to the hot skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Mix in honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Let the sauce simmer and thicken for 2-3 minutes.
- Return pork chops to skillet, turning to coat each chop in the sauce.
- Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
For more quick recipes, check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners and Pork Recipes collections. Want tips on cooking meat perfectly? Visit Food Network for expert advice.
Expert Tips
To keep your Honey Garlic Pork Chops juicy, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F. Let the meat rest a few minutes before slicing to seal juices. If you prefer boneless chops, reduce cooking time by a couple of minutes per side. Experiment with adding red pepper flakes to the sauce for a slight kick.
Storage
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to avoid drying out. For longer storage, freeze cooked chops for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
- Refined Sugar-Free: Swap honey with pure maple syrup.
- Vegan: Substitute pork chops with thick slices of seitan or tofu and adjust cooking times.
FAQ
- Can I make Honey Garlic Pork Chops in the oven?
- Yes! Sear the chops on the stovetop, then transfer to a 400°F oven for 10-12 minutes. Finish with the sauce on the stove.
- What side dishes go well with Honey Garlic Pork Chops?
- Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad complement this dish perfectly.
- How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
- Garlic cooks quickly; add it after removing pork chops from the pan and sauté only 30 seconds.
- Is this Honey Garlic Pork Chops recipe healthy?
- Yes, it’s made with simple, natural ingredients and lean pork. Adjust sweeteners as needed for your diet.
- Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?
- Absolutely, but reduce cooking time slightly as boneless chops cook faster.
Call to Action
We’d love to hear how your Honey Garlic Pork Chops turn out! Leave a comment below, rate the recipe, and don’t forget to save it for your next dinner. Share the flavor with friends who love easy and tasty meals.
