These honey garlic pork chops are a sweet and sticky treat! They’re coated in a delicious mix of honey and garlic, making them super flavorful and hard to resist.
Just imagine sinking your teeth into these juicy chops. I like to serve them with rice or veggies, and trust me, you’ll want to drizzle that tasty sauce all over everything!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use either bone-in or boneless chops. Bone-in chops tend to be juicier, but boneless are easier to eat. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using chicken breasts as an alternative.
Honey: This adds sweetness and helps create a sticky glaze. If you’re out of honey, maple syrup or agave nectar can be good substitutes, although they will change the flavor slightly.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a robust flavor. If you only have garlic powder, use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove, but fresh is always best for this dish.
Soy Sauce: This adds umami and saltiness. If you’re concerned about sodium, use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option.
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds tanginess. If you don’t have it, white wine vinegar or regular white vinegar can work as substitutes, though they might alter the flavor slightly.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky, but with a few simple tips, you can achieve juicy and flavorful results. The goal is to sear them first and then finish cooking them gently.
- Start with room temperature chops. Let them sit out for about 30 minutes before cooking.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chops to get that nice, golden crust.
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for 145°F inside. This ensures they’re cooked but not dry.
- Rest the chops for a few minutes after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them moist.
Follow these steps, and you’re sure to have perfectly cooked pork chops every time!
How to Make Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 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
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Optional garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25 minutes. 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. This helps them sear nicely. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot (but not smoking), add the pork chops. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown crust to form, and make sure they are nearly cooked through.
3. Add the Garlic and Sauce:
Once the chops are browned, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for about 30 seconds. You want it fragrant but be careful not to let it burn. Then stir in the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and thyme. Mix everything well!
4. Simmer and Coat:
Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes. Turn the pork chops a few times so they can soak up that delicious glaze. Keep an eye on it; you want the sauce to thicken and get nice and sticky!
5. Finish Cooking:
Continue cooking until the pork chops are fully done, which means they should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). At this point, the sauce should be caramelized and beautifully sticky.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the pork chops to plates. Spoon extra sauce over the top and garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme for that extra pop of flavor. Serve hot with some steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal, and enjoy every tasty bite!
This recipe delivers juicy, tender pork chops with a sticky-sweet and garlicky glaze that’s truly irresistible!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Yes! While this recipe is perfect for pork chops, you can also use chicken breasts or thighs. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What If I Don’t Have Honey?
If you’re out of honey, you can substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar, though the flavor will change slightly. You could also use brown sugar mixed with a bit of water for a similar sweetness.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can prep the pork chops by seasoning them in advance and storing them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to cook them fresh for optimal tenderness and flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
