Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Why You’ll Love It
If you’re searching for a quick, delicious, and comforting meal, these Honey Garlic Pork Chops fit the bill perfectly. They’re juicy, tender, and bursting with a delightful balance of sweet honey and savory garlic with a hint of tang from the vinegar. Plus, they come together in about 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights or when you want something satisfying without hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick) – bone-in can be used but adjust cooking time
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, for searing
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – adds rich aroma and flavor
- 1/4 cup honey – natural sweetness that caramelizes
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – adds depth and saltiness
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – balances sweetness with tang
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – can substitute with rosemary or oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a subtle kick
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pat the pork chops dry and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add pork chops and cook without moving for 4–5 minutes to develop a golden crust. Flip and cook another 4–5 minutes until cooked through (internal temp 145°F).
- Remove chops from the skillet; set aside and tent with foil to keep warm.
- Reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic to the pan and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir in thyme and red pepper flakes, then simmer for 3–4 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Return pork chops to the skillet, spoon sauce over them, and cook an additional 2 minutes, coating them well.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies.
For more tasty meat recipes, check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners collection.
Learn about balancing flavors on Food Network.
Expert Tips
To ensure juicy pork chops, avoid overcooking and let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing. Using a thermometer helps achieve perfect doneness. Bone-in chops add flavor but require a few more minutes cooking time. For thicker chops, sear and then finish baking in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes.
Storage
Store leftover Honey Garlic Pork Chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap tightly and keep in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Variations
- Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Dairy-free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
- Low sugar: Substitute honey with maple syrup or omit sugar for a savory twist.
- Vegan: Substitute pork chops with thick slices of seitan or tofu and follow the same sauce method, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
FAQ
- Can I use bone-in pork chops for this Honey Garlic Pork Chops recipe?
- Yes, bone-in chops can be used but cooking time will be slightly longer to ensure they’re cooked through.
- How do I prevent the sauce from burning?
- Keep the heat medium when simmering the sauce and stir frequently to prevent sticking or burning.
- What sides go well with Honey Garlic Pork Chops?
- Mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, rice, or a fresh green salad balance the dish nicely.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance. Cook the pork chops fresh and reheat with the sauce for best results.
- Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
- Honey contains sugars, so it’s not strictly keto. You can substitute honey with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol to adapt it.
- How long should I marinate the pork chops?
- This recipe doesn’t require marinating, but you can marinate the pork chops in some of the honey garlic sauce for 30 minutes for extra flavor.
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