Sweet Honey Garlic Pork Chops

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These Sweet Honey Garlic Pork Chops are juicy, tender, and packed with a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors. With a caramelized honey garlic glaze, this dish is a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to make at home in just 30 minutes! Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a special occasion, these pork chops are pan-seared to perfection and then coated in a rich honey garlic sauce. Serve them with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal!
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Serving Size: 1 pork chop
  • Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops:

  • 4 boneless or bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup honey
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Garnishing:

  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Sesame seeds (optional)
  • Extra honey drizzle (optional)

Instructions

Preparing the Pork Chops:

  1. Season the pork chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  2. Heat the pan: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and butter.
  3. Cook the pork chops: Place the pork chops in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  4. Remove from pan: Transfer the pork chops to a plate and cover loosely with foil.

Making the Honey Garlic Sauce:

  1. Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add sauce ingredients: Stir in honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
  3. Simmer: Let the sauce cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Coating the Pork Chops:

  1. Return the pork chops: Place the pork chops back into the skillet and spoon the sauce over them.
  2. Simmer: Cook for another 2-3 minutes, flipping the pork chops to coat both sides evenly.
  3. Check doneness: Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Serving:

  1. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and sesame seeds.
  2. Enjoy: Serve warm with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.

Tips for the Best Sweet Honey Garlic Pork Chops

  • Use Thick-Cut Pork Chops: Thicker pork chops stay juicy and cook more evenly.
  • Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops reach 145°F (63°C).
  • Let Them Rest: Allow the pork chops to rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.
  • Make It Spicier: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Creative Variations

  • Lemon Garlic Pork Chops: Swap apple cider vinegar for fresh lemon juice.
  • Teriyaki Glazed Pork Chops: Add 1 teaspoon ginger and 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce.
  • Grilled Version: Marinate the pork chops in the sauce and grill for 4-5 minutes per side.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Can I use bone-in pork chops? Absolutely! Just increase the cooking time by 2-3 minutes per side. How do I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat. These Sweet Honey Garlic Pork Chops are quick, easy, and bursting with flavor! Whether you’re making them for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, they’re guaranteed to impress. Try them today!

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