These Easy Honey Garlic Pork Chops are sweet, sticky, and super tasty! With a simple blend of honey, garlic, and soy sauce, they come together in no time, making dinner a breeze.
Cooking these chops always gets me excited. They caramelize beautifully in the pan, filling my kitchen with an amazing smell! I love serving them with rice for a fun, easy meal that everyone enjoys!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I prefer using bone-in chops for more flavor, but boneless works well too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using chicken thighs instead. They also soak up the honey garlic sauce beautifully!
Honey: This is the star ingredient, providing sweetness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, maple syrup or agave nectar can work as substitutes. Just be aware that they may change the flavor slightly.
Soy Sauce: I recommend low sodium soy sauce to keep the dish from being too salty. If you’re gluten-free, tamari is a great substitute that delivers a similar taste.
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar brings a nice tang. If it’s not available, rice vinegar is also a great choice for its mild flavor. You could use white vinegar, but cut back a bit as it’s stronger.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Pork Chops So They Stay Juicy?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky, but here are some tips to ensure they stay juicy:
- Bring the chops to room temperature before cooking to help them cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps achieve a nice sear.
- Use a meat thermometer; when they reach 145°F (63°C), they’re perfectly cooked!
- Rest the pork chops for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them moist.
These little steps make a world of difference in achieving tender, juicy pork chops every time!
Easy Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for slight heat)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25-30 minutes. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight but delicious enough to impress your family or guests!
Instructions
1. Season the Pork Chops
Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the meat and make it delicious!
2. Sear the Chops
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, making sure they get nice grill marks and are fully cooked (aim for an internal temperature of 145°F or 63°C). Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the pan and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
With the pork chops set aside, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same pan. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. Then stir in the honey, soy sauce, and vinegar. If you like a bit of heat, add the crushed red pepper flakes! Let the sauce simmer and reduce for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Glaze the Pork Chops
Return the pork chops to the pan, turning them to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes so they can soak up all that glaze.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the glazed pork chops to a serving platter. Spoon extra sauce on top and garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite sides like rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
This recipe creates juicy pork chops with a sweet, garlicky, and savory honey glaze that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
FAQ for Easy Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Can I Use Bone-In or Boneless Pork Chops?
Yes, both bone-in and boneless pork chops work well in this recipe! Bone-in chops tend to be juicier and more flavorful, while boneless chops are leaner and cook slightly faster. Choose based on your preference!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, you can reduce the amount of honey to 1/4 cup or even use a sugar alternative like agave nectar or maple syrup. Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust according to your liking!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and even cook the pork chops ahead of time. Just store the cooked chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a bit of extra sauce for moisture before serving!
What Should I Serve with These Pork Chops?
These honey garlic pork chops are delicious with rice, mashed potatoes, or quinoa to soak up the sauce. You can also pair them with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal!
