Honey Garlic Pork Chops
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner, honey garlic pork chops are the perfect choice. This recipe brings together tender pork chops glazed with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce that’s irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love It
Honey Garlic Pork Chops combine ease and flavor in one skillet. The balance of honey’s sweetness with garlic’s punch makes every bite memorable. This recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal prep, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, the pork stays juicy and tender thanks to a quick sear and a flavorful glaze.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick (substitute boneless if preferred)
- 1/4 cup honey (maple syrup or agave nectar works too)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh preferred, but garlic powder can substitute)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (tamari for gluten-free option)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (white vinegar or lemon juice are alternatives)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (any neutral oil like avocado or vegetable)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pat the pork chops dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet set over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Place the pork chops in the skillet and sear 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- In a small bowl, combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar; whisk until smooth.
- Pour the honey garlic sauce over the pork chops in the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low.
- Cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, spooning the sauce over the pork chops occasionally, until the glaze thickens and pork is cooked through (internal temperature 145°F).
- Remove from heat, garnish with parsley if using, and serve immediately.
For more easy recipes, check out Easy Weeknight Dinners and explore creative ways to enjoy your favorite meats in the Meat Recipe Collection.
For additional cooking tips, visit Food Network.
Expert Tips
For the best results, use pork chops that are at least one inch thick to prevent drying out during cooking. Let the meat rest a few minutes after cooking to retain juices. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chops once cooked and simmer sauce alone until it thickens.
To scale the recipe, simply adjust the ingredient amounts and use a larger skillet if needed. For a faster prep, you can mix the sauce ingredients ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Storage
Store leftover honey garlic pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
- Refined Sugar-Free: Swap honey with pure maple syrup or coconut nectar.
- Vegan: Substitute pork chops with thick tofu steaks and adjust cooking time accordingly.
FAQ
- Can I use boneless pork chops for this honey garlic pork chops recipe?
- Yes, boneless pork chops can be used but watch the cooking time closely as they tend to cook faster.
- What is the best cooking method for honey garlic pork chops?
- Searing in a skillet over medium-high heat works best to get a golden crust while locking in juices.
- How do I know when pork chops are done?
- Use a meat thermometer; pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safe, juicy results.
- Can I make honey garlic pork chops ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and simply cook the pork chops fresh for best texture.
- Is honey garlic pork chops healthy?
- This recipe offers a balanced mix of protein with natural sweeteners but watch portion sizes and sides for overall nutrition.
Call to Action
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