Honey Garlic Pork Chops Recipe

There’s something magical about the moment when savory meets sweet, and these honey garlic pork chops are my new obsession. With a perfect balance of flavors and seared to golden perfection, these chops are not just a meal—they’re an experience.

I love creating recipes that bring out the robust flavors of simple ingredients. My Honey Garlic Pork Chops combine tender pork with a sweet and savory glaze made from honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.

The balance of apple cider vinegar adds a tangy note that perfectly complements the dish, making it a delightful and satisfying meal.

Honey Garlic Pork Chops Recipe Ingredients

• Honey: Adds natural sweetness; rich in antioxidants; enhances caramelization.

• Soy Sauce: Provides umami flavor; source of protein; adds depth and saltiness.

• Garlic: Boosts flavor; contains antioxidants; known for anti-inflammatory properties.

• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds tanginess; contains probiotics; aids digestion.

• Pork Chops: High in protein; rich in vitamins; essential for muscle building.

Honey Garlic Pork Chops Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 4 pork chops, about 1-inch thick
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

How to Make this Honey Garlic Pork Chops Recipe

1. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Add the pork chops to the skillet and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown. Remove the chops from the skillet and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Stir in honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

6. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Pour this into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.

7. Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Lower the heat, cover, and let simmer for about 5-7 minutes, until the pork chops are cooked through.

8. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.

9. Once cooked, transfer the pork chops to a serving platter and drizzle with the honey garlic sauce.

10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Honey Garlic Pork Chops Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large skillet
2. Small bowl
3. Measuring cups
4. Measuring spoons
5. Garlic press or knife for mincing garlic
6. Tongs or spatula
7. Whisk or fork
8. Knife (for garnishing with parsley)
9. Cutting board

FAQ

• Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe? Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, but adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster than bone-in chops.
• Is there a substitute for apple cider vinegar? You can use white wine vinegar or rice vinegar as a substitute for apple cider vinegar.
• How do I know when the pork chops are fully cooked? Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 145°F (63°C).
• Can I prepare the marinade in advance? Absolutely, you can mix the marinade ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• What can I serve with honey garlic pork chops? These pork chops pair perfectly with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a side salad.
• Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free? Use a gluten-free soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.
• How do I thicken the sauce? Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then add it to the sauce and stir until it thickens.

Honey Garlic Pork Chops Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Honey: Substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness.
• Soy sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos can be used as a gluten-free option.
• Garlic: Substitute with 1 teaspoon garlic powder for convenience.
• Apple cider vinegar: White wine vinegar or rice vinegar can be used as alternatives.
• Olive oil: Can be replaced with vegetable oil or avocado oil.

Pro Tips

1. Marinate for Extra Flavor Consider marinating the pork chops in the honey, soy sauce, garlic, and apple cider vinegar mixture for at least 30 minutes to a few hours before cooking. This will infuse the meat with more flavor and make it even more tender.

2. Pat Dry for Better Searing Before searing the pork chops, pat them dry with paper towels. This will help achieve a better crust and more flavorful browning on the surface of the chops.

3. Deglaze the Pan After searing the pork chops and before adding the garlic, you can deglaze the pan with a splash of apple cider vinegar or water to lift the flavorful brown bits from the bottom. This adds depth to the sauce.

4. Monitor Sauce Consistency Be cautious with the cornstarch slurry; add it gradually to the sauce while stirring continuously. This helps you reach the desired thickness without making it too gloopy.

5. Rest the Meat After cooking, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, reducing the risk of the meat drying out when cut.