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These Honey Garlic Pork Chops are the answer when I want a quick weeknight dinner that still feels special. Each chop is pan-seared to a golden brown and then coated with a sticky honey garlic glaze that is both savory and sweet. Paired with simple sides or dressed up for guests, this dish always wins compliments and leaves no leftovers at my table.
Every time I make these pork chops for my family they disappear fast. The sauce even has my picky kid practically licking his plate which always makes me smile.
Ingredients
- Boneless pork chops: about one inch thick This cut cooks quickly and stays tender when not overcooked so look for ones with a little marbling for juiciness
- Salt and pepper: These seasonings bring out flavor and help the meat brown
- Olive oil or unsalted butter: These fats are for searing and give a rich flavor choose a good quality olive oil or real butter
- Fresh garlic: Minced garlic gives that deep savory aroma use fresh cloves for best results
- Honey: The sweetness is key for caramelizing choose a runny honey for easy blending
- Soy sauce: Low sodium is best to control seasoning look for a brand with deep color and aroma
- Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice: Just a splash balances the sauce’s sweetness
- Chicken broth or water: This helps deglaze and capture all those savory browned bits from the pan
- Parsley, red pepper flakes, sesame seeds: These optional garnishes add freshness color or a little heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pork Chops:
- Pat the pork chops dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Let them rest at room temperature for about fifteen to twenty minutes for even cooking.
- Sear the Pork Chops:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium high heat. Once hot place the pork chops in the pan. Cook for about four to five minutes on the first side until you see a rich golden crust. Flip and cook the other side for another four to five minutes until they reach an internal temperature of one hundred forty five degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the pork chops and set aside.
- Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- Turn the heat down to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Stir constantly and cook for about thirty seconds until it is fragrant but not browned.
- Build the Glaze:
- Pour in the honey soy sauce and apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Stir well to blend the flavors. Let the glaze bubble gently on the heat for one minute.
- Deglaze the Pan:
- Add chicken broth or water scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to loosen any flavorful bits. Simmer for about two or three minutes until the sauce thickens just a bit.
- Glaze the Pork Chops:
- Return the seared pork chops to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over each chop turning them so that they are well coated. Let them cook for another one or two minutes to heat through and soak up the glaze.
- Serve:
- Transfer the pork chops to a serving platter. Spoon extra sauce over the top and add chopped parsley red pepper flakes or sesame seeds if you like. Serve alongside rice mashed potatoes or your favorite vegetable.
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One of my favorite ingredients in this recipe is the honey. Drizzling it straight from the jar into the hot pan reminds me of helping my grandmother in her kitchen when I was little. Now when I make this for my family it feels like I am passing on the same kitchen magic to my own kids.
Storage Tips
Keep any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat add a splash of chicken broth in a skillet and warm over gentle heat until just heated through. If freezing let them cool completely before storing in a freezer bag. Defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat gently for best results.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a different sweet note use maple syrup instead of honey. Coconut aminos may be swapped for soy sauce if you are looking for a gluten free option. Lemon juice and apple cider vinegar can both provide a fresh acidity so use whichever you have on hand. Bone in pork chops can work just watch the cook time as they might need a minute or two more.
Serving Suggestions
These pork chops go well with steamed broccoli roasted green beans or simple buttered noodles. Mashed potatoes and rice soak up the sauce perfectly. For a special dinner scatter toasted sesame seeds and thin slices of green onion over the top.
Cultural Context
Honey garlic sauces are popular all across Asia North America and beyond. This dish combines flavors from classic Asian style sauces with a good old fashioned American pork chop. The blend of sweet sticky and savory elements has universal appeal which is probably why it keeps showing up at potlucks and family tables.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → How do I keep pork chops juicy?
Use 1-inch thick chops and avoid overcooking. Let them rest at room temperature before searing, and cook to an internal temperature of 145°F. Resting after cooking helps retain moisture.
- → What is the purpose of deglazing with broth?
Deglazing lifts all the flavorful browned bits from the pan, enhancing the sauce's taste and depth. It also helps create a glossy, well-emulsified glaze.
- → Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Yes, bone-in chops are often juicier and more flavorful. Adjust cook time since they might require slightly longer to reach desired doneness.
- → How can I make the dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a subtle heat that complements the honey and garlic flavors well.
- → What are the best garnishes?
Fresh chopped parsley, sesame seeds, or extra sauce poured over the chops add color and texture. For added heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes works well.
- → What sides pair well with honey garlic pork chops?
Classic sides include mashed potatoes, steamed or roasted vegetables, garlic butter noodles, and fluffy rice. These options help balance the sweet-savory glaze.
- → Can the glaze be used with other proteins?
Absolutely! The honey garlic glaze is delicious over chicken, salmon, or tofu, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen repertoire.