These balsamic glazed pork chops are juicy and packed with flavor! The sweet and tangy sauce gives them a yummy finish that pairs wonderfully with any side dish.
Cooking these chops makes the kitchen smell amazing! I love serving them with some mashed potatoes and green beans for a perfect meal. Your family will be asking for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are fantastic for flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops; just adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient brings the tangy flavor that makes the glaze special. If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute with red or white wine vinegar, but it won’t taste exactly the same.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds sweetness that balances the tang. If you’re looking for a healthier option, honey or maple syrup can work well as substitutes.
Garlic: Whole or smashed garlic cloves impart a lovely flavor. For a milder taste, you can use garlic powder, just reduce the amount since it’s more concentrated.
Fresh Rosemary: Rosemary adds a nice earthy note. If you’re out of fresh herbs, dried rosemary can substitute, but use less since it’s more potent.
How Do You Get the Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
Getting a great sear on your pork chops locks in flavor and adds visual appeal. Here are tips to achieve that perfect crust:
- Always pat the pork chops dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps them brown nicely.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the olive oil. A hot pan ensures a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary; giving space helps with browning.
Cook your pork chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side. If you flip them too much, they won’t get that nice crust!
Delicious Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Balsamic Glaze:
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled and left whole or smashed
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary sprigs (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water (optional, for sauce thinning)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of cooking time, plus a few extra minutes for prep. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and searing the chops, followed by another 10 minutes cooking and glazing them. Perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear! Next, season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This adds flavor to the meat.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned pork chops. Sear the chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. This step locks in the flavor and creates a delicious crust.
3. Make the Balsamic Glaze:
Once the pork chops are nicely browned, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate. Lower the heat to medium and add the garlic cloves to the skillet. Sauté them for about 1 minute until they become fragrant. Next, stir in the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pan. This really enhances the flavor!
4. Thicken the Glaze:
Let the balsamic mixture cook, stirring frequently, until it reduces and thickens into a glaze. This should take about 3-5 minutes. The smell will be amazing!
5. Combine and Cook:
Return the pork chops back to the skillet, along with rosemary sprigs if you’re using them. Spoon the glaze over the chops to coat them well. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for another 3-5 minutes. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Serve and Enjoy:
If the glaze is too thick, feel free to add a little chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and spoon the delicious balsamic glaze over the top before serving. Enjoy your dish hot, alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables!
These balsamic glazed pork chops are not only quick to make but also a delightful treat for your taste buds. Bon appétit! 🍽️
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless pork chops! Just be aware that they’ll cook faster than bone-in chops, so check their internal temperature around the 3-minute mark on each side to avoid overcooking.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can make the balsamic glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat it before serving with freshly cooked pork chops!
What Should I Serve with Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. A simple green salad is also a great side to balance the richness of the glaze!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them up in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the glaze has thickened too much.
