These Easy Honey Garlic Boneless Pork Chops are sweet, sticky, and super tasty! With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s quick to whip up on any night.
I love how the honey brings out the flavor of the pork! Serve it with rice or veggies, and trust me, your family will be asking for seconds. Who can resist that yummy glaze? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Pork Chops: These are the star of the dish! Look for chops that are about 1 inch thick for even cooking. If you don’t have pork, chicken breast or turkey cutlets can work as great substitutes.
Honey: It’s the glue that holds the sauce together! If you’re looking for a lower-sugar alternative, agave syrup or maple syrup can replace honey. Each will give a different flavor, but they’ll still keep your sauce sweet.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and depth to your glaze. If you’re avoiding soy, try using tamari or coconut aminos. They both offer a similar umami flavor without the soy.
Garlic: Fresh garlic packs a punch in this recipe! If you’re out of fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder, but reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon as it is more concentrated.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds nice tanginess. If you don’t have it, white wine vinegar or even lemon juice will work as great alternatives!
How Can I Master Cooking the Pork Chops Perfectly?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky if you want them juicy and not dry. Here’s how to get it right:
- Before cooking, let the pork chops sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This helps them cook more evenly.
- Use a medium-high heat. This will give you a nice sear on the outside. Cooking too low can lead to dry meat.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—145°F (63°C) is ideal.
- Let the chops rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them more tender.
With these tips, you’ll end up with juicy pork chops that are bursting with flavor every time!
Easy Honey Garlic Boneless Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a bit of tang)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you should be able to have this delicious dish ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of the boneless pork chops with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. This will give the pork a nice flavor base!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through. You can check the internal temperature; it should be 145°F (63°C). Then, remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a plate to rest.
3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn! Now, stir in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar if you choose to add it. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly and turns into a shiny glaze.
4. Coat the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon the honey garlic sauce over them. Let them cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, turning the chops to ensure they’re completely coated in the delicious glaze.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the glazed pork chops to a serving plate. Drizzle any remaining sauce from the pan over the top and garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme if desired. Serve these delightful chops hot alongside your favorite sides like steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Enjoy your tender, juicy pork chops with a perfect sweet and savory honey garlic glaze!
FAQ – Easy Honey Garlic Boneless Pork Chops
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as bone-in chops may take a bit longer to cook. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or sriracha to the honey garlic sauce. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste according to your preference!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the pork chops in the honey garlic mixture for a couple of hours or overnight to enhance the flavor. Just cook them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy!
