These honey garlic pork chops are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. The sweet and tangy honey garlic sauce makes every bite delicious!
You won’t believe how quick they cook up! I love serving them with rice or veggies for a nice balanced meal. Plus, the sticky sauce means more for my plate! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are my favorite for their juiciness and flavor. If you can’t find them, you can use boneless chops but remember they may cook a bit faster.
Honey: Honey is the star of this dish! If you’re looking for a healthier option, pure maple syrup is a great substitute while offering a slightly different taste.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor, but in a pinch, you can use garlic powder. Start with about 1 teaspoon of powder for this recipe.
Soy Sauce: For a lower-sodium option, you can use tamari or coconut aminos, which work wonderfully too!
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds a nice tang but feel free to swap it with white wine vinegar for a different twist.
How Can I Make Sure My Pork Chops Are Tender and Juicy?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky, but there are a few key steps to keep them tender:
- Pat them dry: This helps create a good sear, locking in moisture.
- Don’t rush it: Cooking them too fast can dry them out. Medium-high heat is perfect to get a nice crust without overcooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for juicy, perfectly cooked pork.
- Rest before serving: Letting the chops rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing tenderness.
With these tips, you’ll achieve delicious and juicy honey garlic pork chops every time! Enjoy!
Best Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a slight kick)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, making it a 25-minute meal from start to finish! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and beautifully seared. Make sure they are cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove the pork chops from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
Turn the heat down to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant but not burnt. Next, stir in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. If you like a bit of heat, toss in the crushed red pepper flakes. Let this delicious mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
4. Combine and Serve:
Add the unsalted butter to the sauce and swirl it around in the pan until it melts and blends into the sauce. Return the pork chops to the skillet and generously spoon the honey garlic sauce over each chop. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat them through.
5. Plate and Garnish:
Transfer the pork chops to serving plates and drizzle any additional sauce from the skillet on top. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a lovely garnish.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your tender, juicy honey garlic pork chops immediately with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe, but they may cook a bit faster. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook!
What Can I Use Instead of Honey?
If you’re looking for a substitute, pure maple syrup works well in place of honey. You can also use agave nectar for a similar sweetness!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a microwave or on a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Prepare the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the honey garlic sauce ahead of time! Just store it separately in the fridge, then reheat it in a skillet before adding the cooked pork chops when you’re ready to serve.
