Say goodbye to bland pork chops with this incredible honey garlic recipe. These pork chops are coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory sauce that’s bursting with flavor, creating a mouthwatering dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With a caramelized crust and juicy interior, this recipe will make pork chops a family favorite in no time.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment
- Large skillet or cast-iron pan
- Tongs
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or whisk
How to Make the World’s Best Honey Garlic Pork Chops Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Pork Chops:
- Season the Pork Chops:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
- Sear the Pork Chops:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork chops and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Sauce Ingredients:
- Stir in honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chili flakes (if using). Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it begins to thicken slightly.
Combine and Finish:
- Return Pork Chops to the Skillet:
- Place the seared pork chops back into the skillet, turning them to coat in the sauce. Simmer for 4-5 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through (145°F internal temperature).
- Caramelize:
- Spoon the sauce over the pork chops as they cook to create a sticky, caramelized glaze.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the pork chops for a pop of color. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Pro Tips For Making This Recipe
- Choose the Right Pork Chops:
- Bone-in pork chops retain more moisture and are less likely to dry out during cooking, but boneless chops work well too.
- Don’t Overcook:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F for juicy, perfectly cooked meat.
- Deglaze the Pan:
- After searing the pork chops, scrape up any browned bits from the skillet when making the sauce to add depth of flavor.
- Rest the Pork Chops:
- Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat tender.
- Double the Sauce:
- If you like extra sauce for drizzling over rice or vegetables, simply double the sauce ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use boneless pork chops?
- Yes, boneless pork chops work perfectly in this recipe. Just reduce the cooking time slightly as they tend to cook faster.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Can I make this recipe in the oven?
- Yes, sear the pork chops on the stovetop first, then transfer to a 375°F oven to finish cooking for about 10 minutes, brushing with the sauce halfway through.
- What sides go well with this dish?
- Honey garlic pork chops pair well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh garden salad.
- Can I substitute the honey?
- If you prefer, you can use maple syrup or brown sugar as a substitute for honey. The flavor will vary slightly but still be delicious.
This World’s Best Honey Garlic Pork Chops Recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. With its perfect balance of sweetness, savory richness, and a hint of spice, this dish will be a hit every time!