Balsamic glazed pork chops are juicy, flavorful, and super easy to make! The sweet-tangy glaze gives them a beautiful shine and delicious taste that you’ll love.
Cooking these chops in the kitchen makes the house smell amazing! I like to pair them with mashed potatoes for a tasty meal that feels special. You’ll feel like a chef without working too hard!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops offer great flavor and tenderness. If you prefer boneless, that’s totally fine too! Just adjust the cooking time, as boneless chops can cook more quickly.
Balsamic Vinegar: A must for that sweet-tangy flavor! If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can try red wine vinegar mixed with a bit of sugar for a similar taste.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps the glaze caramelize. If you’re watching sugar intake, coconut sugar is a good alternative that works well too.
Thyme: Fresh thyme is wonderful, but dried thyme will do the job nicely! You can switch it out for rosemary or Italian seasoning based on your preference.
Red Pepper Flakes: These are optional but give a nice touch of heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to leave them out or just add a pinch!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Sear the Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops is crucial for sealing in juices and creating a tasty crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with pork chops at room temperature for even cooking. This helps them sear nicely!
- Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the oil. Test by sprinkling a few drops of water; they should sizzle.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if necessary. This ensures they brown instead of steam!
- Avoid flipping them too soon; let them sear for about 4 minutes on one side until nicely browned before flipping.
With these tips, your balsamic glazed pork chops will be both delicious and impressive!
How to Make Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 20 minutes total—about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Begin by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better. Then season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will enhance their flavor!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear them for about 4 minutes on one side, or until they are golden brown. Flip the chops and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they’re nicely browned on the other side and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Garlic and Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Now, add the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir everything together and allow it to come to a simmer. Let it cook, stirring frequently, for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes syrupy.
4. Glaze the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the glaze over the top. Let them cook for another 1-2 minutes to soak up all those wonderful flavors and coat evenly with the sauce.
5. Serve:
Transfer the glazed pork chops to a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the pan over the pork. If you’d like, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious meal!
With these juicy pork chops in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, you’ll impress anyone at the dinner table. Enjoy your cooking!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used, but they cook a bit faster, so be sure to monitor the internal temperature closely to avoid drying them out.
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar on hand, red wine vinegar mixed with a bit of honey or sugar can work as a substitute for a similar flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm them gently in a skillet with a splash of water to keep them moist.
Can I Make the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the balsamic glaze in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before using it with the pork chops.