Discover how to make juicy honey garlic pork chops with a sweet, savory glaze. Perfect for quick dinners, this recipe is simple and full of flavor.
Why You’ll Love It
Honey garlic pork chops are one of those dishes that balance savory and sweet perfectly, making them irresistible. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful without hassle. With a sticky honey glaze and tender meat, it’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops (1-inch thick works best)
- 1/4 cup honey (substitute maple syrup for a different sweetness)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (use garlic powder if fresh isn’t available)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (tamari for gluten-free option)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (white vinegar can be used)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (any neutral oil like canola or vegetable works)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
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.
- Place the pork chops in the skillet and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl and whisk well.
- Pour the honey garlic sauce over the pork chops in the skillet. Reduce heat to medium and cook for another 3-5 minutes, spooning the glaze over the chops frequently.
- Once the sauce thickens and the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), remove from heat.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Looking for more quick dinner ideas? Check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners for inspiration. For tips on cooking pork, Food Network has great guides.
Expert Tips
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; pork chops should reach 145°F for safe, juicy meat. Avoid overcooking which can dry out the pork. If your sauce gets too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it. For meal prep, cook chops ahead and reheat gently with extra sauce to keep them moist.
Storage
Store leftover honey garlic pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap tightly and keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
- Refined Sugar-Free: Swap honey with pure maple syrup or coconut nectar.
- Vegan Version: Replace pork chops with thick-cut tofu or seitan and adjust cooking time accordingly.
FAQ
- What cut of pork is best for honey garlic pork chops? Boneless pork chops about 1-inch thick are ideal for even cooking and absorbing the glaze.
- Can I bake honey garlic pork chops instead of pan-frying? Yes, bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes and baste with sauce halfway through.
- How do I prevent the honey garlic sauce from burning? Cook on medium heat and watch closely; honey can burn quickly if the pan is too hot.
- Is honey garlic pork chops healthy? It’s a balanced dish if paired with vegetables and moderate sides. The natural sweetness comes from honey rather than refined sugar.
- Can I make honey garlic pork chops ahead of time? Yes, marinate pork chops in the honey garlic sauce for up to 2 hours before cooking for even more flavor.
Call to Action
Have you tried this honey garlic pork chops recipe? Leave a comment below with your tips or variations, rate the recipe if you enjoyed it, and don’t forget to save this page for your next dinner. Share with friends who love simple, delicious meals!
