If you’ve been searching for a dish that perfectly balances sweetness, savoriness, and a touch of tang, look no further than this Honey Garlic Glazed Pork Chops Recipe. These pork chops come out juicy and tender, enveloped in a sticky, flavorful glaze that combines honey, garlic, and a medley of delicious seasonings. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe quickly becomes a family favorite thanks to its simple ingredients and irresistible taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping ingredients straightforward means you can focus on flavors that really shine through. Each component here plays a critical role, from the tender pork chops themselves to the sweet and tangy glaze that elevates the whole dish visually and taste-wise.
- 6 Boneless Center Cut Pork Chops: These provide the perfect balance between lean meat and tenderness for a juicy bite every time.
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil: Used for searing, it creates a beautiful golden crust and keeps the chops moist.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and highlighting the natural pork flavor.
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder: Adds depth to the seasoning blend before cooking.
- 1 Tablespoon Unsalted Butter: Gives richness and helps sauté the fresh garlic without burning.
- 6 Cloves Garlic (Minced): Fresh garlic brightens the glaze with its aromatic punch.
- 1/4 Cup Honey: The star of the glaze, providing natural sweetness and a sticky finish.
- 2 Tablespoons Ketchup: Adds subtle tang and body to the sauce.
- 2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce: Contributes a savory umami kick and perfect saltiness.
- 2 Tablespoons Rice Wine Vinegar: Balances the sweetness with a slight acidity for complexity.
How to Make Honey Garlic Glazed Pork Chops Recipe
Step 1: Season Your Pork Chops
Start by patting those boneless center cut pork chops dry and seasoning them lovingly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure to coat both sides evenly so every bite bursts with flavor right from the start.
Step 2: Heat Olive Oil and Sear the Pork Chops
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the pork chops. Sear each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust that locks in all the juices.
Step 3: Check Temperature and Rest the Meat
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork. Then transfer those chops to a plate and let them rest while you prepare the magic sauce.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Base
Lower the heat to medium-low and add unsalted butter to the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant, which develops the foundation of your glaze’s rich aroma.
Step 5: Whisk Together the Honey Garlic Glaze
Add honey, ketchup, soy sauce, and rice wine vinegar to the skillet. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth. Turn the heat up slightly so the sauce simmers gently for around 5 minutes until thickened and glossy, stirring occasionally to keep it from sticking.
Step 6: Broil for the Perfect Glaze
Preheat your oven’s broiler to high. Return the pork chops to the skillet and generously baste each side with the luscious honey garlic sauce. Broil for 1 to 2 minutes per side, watching carefully for a slight char that adds a smoky depth and irresistible texture to the glaze.
Step 7: Final Touch and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the aromas soak in for a moment. If you like, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness before plating those gorgeous chops.
How to Serve Honey Garlic Glazed Pork Chops Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro add a bright, fresh note that contrasts beautifully with the sweet glaze. A few thinly sliced green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can also amp up the visual appeal and flavor.
Side Dishes
This Honey Garlic Glazed Pork Chops Recipe pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up every bit of that flavorful sauce. Steamed rice or a crisp green salad also work wonderfully to balance the richness of the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating the pork chops atop a bed of sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables for a beautiful, wholesome meal. Serving with a drizzle of glaze artistically swirled on the plate also makes for a restaurant-quality presentation right at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover honey garlic glazed pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners on busy days.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap each pork chop individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This recipe freezes well for up to 2 months, allowing you to enjoy this tasty dish anytime you want.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to retain moisture and keep the glaze sticky and delicious. You can also warm them in the microwave but be careful not to overcook, as pork can dry out.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in pork chops for this Honey Garlic Glazed Pork Chops Recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in chops add extra flavor and moisture, but you may need to slightly increase the cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to keep that delicious umami taste without gluten.
How thick should the pork chops be?
About 1 inch thick works best to ensure even cooking without drying out the meat. Thicker chops might need additional cooking time.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
You can definitely prepare the glaze ahead, just store it in the fridge and gently warm before using it to baste the pork chops during cooking.
What can I substitute for rice wine vinegar?
If you don’t have rice wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar or white vinegar mixed with a bit of sugar can work as a tangy alternative.
Final Thoughts
This Honey Garlic Glazed Pork Chops Recipe has everything you need for a comforting and memorable meal. Its sweet and savory glaze makes pork chops truly shine, and the simplicity of the ingredients means it’s accessible to all home cooks. Go ahead and try it out—you might just find your new favorite dinner that everyone will ask for again and again!
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Honey Garlic Glazed Pork Chops Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 pork chops
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Honey Garlic Pork Chops recipe features tender boneless center-cut pork chops seared to a golden brown and glazed with a flavorful homemade honey garlic sauce. The combination of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of vinegar creates a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes. Finished under the broiler for a slightly charred edge, these pork chops are a quick and delicious dinner option that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh side salad.
Ingredients
Meat
- 6 Boneless Center Cut Pork Chops
Seasoning
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
Cooking Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 Tablespoon Unsalted Butter
- 6 Cloves Garlic (Minced)
- 1/4 Cup Honey
- 2 Tablespoons Ketchup
- 2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce
- 2 Tablespoon Rice Wine Vinegar
Instructions
- Season the Pork Chops: Start by seasoning the boneless center cut pork chops with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Ensure that both sides of the pork chops are evenly coated for balanced flavor.
- Heat the Skillet: In an oven-safe skillet, such as a cast iron pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering.
- Sear the Pork Chops: Add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet. Sear each side for approximately 3-4 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), which ensures a juicy interior and a golden-brown crust.
- Set Pork Chops Aside: Once cooked, transfer the pork chops to a plate and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Sauté Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the unsalted butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the garlic until aromatic, about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
- Make the Sauce: Add honey, ketchup, soy sauce, and rice wine vinegar to the skillet. Whisk to combine and increase the heat slightly. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Preheat the Broiler: While the sauce simmers, preheat your oven’s broiler to high.
- Coat the Pork Chops: Return the seared pork chops to the skillet with the sauce. Baste them generously on both sides to ensure they are thoroughly coated in the flavorful glaze.
- Broil the Pork Chops: Place the skillet under the preheated broiler. Broil for 1-2 minutes on each side until edges develop a slightly charred appearance. Continue basting with the sauce during broiling to enhance the flavor and keep the pork moist.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove the skillet from the oven. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve: Serve these delicious honey garlic glazed pork chops with your choice of mashed potatoes, rice, or a crisp side salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
- Use an oven-safe skillet like cast iron for easy transition from stovetop to broiler.
- Adjust honey quantity if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet glaze.
- Watch closely while broiling to prevent burning due to the sugars in the sauce.
- Fresh parsley garnish is optional but adds a nice color contrast and freshness.
- Let the pork chops rest a few minutes after broiling for juicier texture.
