These honey garlic pork chops are sweet, savory, and oh-so-tender! With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this flavorful dish that will impress everyone at the dinner table.
Trust me, the sweet sauce is the star here. I always make sure to have some rice on the side to soak up that deliciousness! You’re going to want seconds—maybe even thirds! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add more flavor, but boneless works just fine too. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use pork tenderloin cut into thick slices.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for the strong flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder will do—just use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
Honey: This is the star ingredient! For a different flavor profile, try using maple syrup or agave nectar. Just remember, it will change the sweetness a bit.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is a good substitute if you want less salt. You can also use tamari for a gluten-free option.
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is my go-to, but rice vinegar offers a milder taste. You could even use lemon juice for a zesty twist!
How Do You Get the Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops gives them that delicious golden-brown crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding oil—this helps achieve that nice crust.
- Pat the pork chops dry; moisture can prevent browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give them room to breathe.
- After adding the chops, resist the urge to move them around for at least 4-5 minutes. This allows a crust to form.
Once you achieve that sear, they’ll be beautifully golden with a fantastic flavor. Enjoy creating these tasty honey garlic pork chops!
Best Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For The Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added depth)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for slight heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll have delicious honey garlic pork chops ready in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry using paper towels. This helps them sear better! Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. If you’d like, sprinkle some smoked paprika over them for a kick of flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear them until they look golden and slightly charred, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Once done, transfer the chops to a plate and set them aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until you can smell it—be careful not to let it burn! Now, stir in the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, chopped rosemary, and if you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens up nicely.
4. Finish Cooking the Pork Chops:
Carefully return the pork chops back into the skillet, turning them to coat well with the sauce. Cook everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes, regularly spooning the sauce over the chops. They’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
After cooking, take the skillet off the heat and let the pork chops rest for a few minutes. This will help them absorb all that delicious flavor! Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and serve immediately, alongside steamed rice or mashed potatoes to enjoy with that scrumptious sauce.
Enjoy this tender, flavorful pork chop recipe with the perfect balance of sweet garlic glaze and savory depth! Your family is going to love it!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Meat Instead of Pork Chops?
Absolutely! This honey garlic sauce works wonderfully with other meats such as chicken thighs or even salmon. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the meat to ensure it cooks properly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, add more red pepper flakes to the marinade or sauce. For a different flavor, consider adding a splash of sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper as well.
Can I Prepare the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the honey garlic sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat it in a saucepan before adding it to the cooked pork chops.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stove with a little bit of water to keep them from drying out.