Easy Boneless Pork Chops with Honey Garlic Sauce

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Boneless Pork Chops: These are great for quick cooking. If you can’t find boneless, you could use bone-in chops, just adjust the cooking time as they take longer.

Honey: A must for that sweet glaze! If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar instead. Both will work well with this recipe.

Soy Sauce: Adds a savory element. For a gluten-free option, look for tamari or coconut aminos. They provide a similar flavor without the gluten.

Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds acidity to balance the sweetness. If you’re out, white vinegar or rice vinegar can serve as substitutes in a pinch.

Cornstarch: Used for thickening the sauce. If you don’t have cornstarch, flour can also work, but you’ll need to use more (about 2 tablespoons), and it will take a bit longer to thicken.

How Do I Get Juicy Pork Chops and Avoid Overcooking?

The key to juicy pork chops is all about cooking them properly. Here’s how to make sure they stay tender:

• Start by patting the pork chops dry. This helps them sear better and retain moisture.
• Season generously with salt and pepper before cooking. This enhances flavor throughout the meat.
• Cook over medium-high heat, and don’t overcrowd the pan. This ensures even cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for 145°F (63°C). Remove them from the heat just as they reach this temperature.

Let the chops rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy!

Easy Boneless Pork Chops with Honey Garlic Sauce

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
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (such as rosemary or thyme)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes of cooking time, plus a few minutes for preparation. In total, you can have this delicious dish ready to serve in about 20 minutes!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork Chops:

Start by patting the pork chops dry with a paper towel. This helps them sear nicely. Sprinkle both sides with salt and black pepper to season them well. It brings out the flavor!

2. Cook the Pork Chops:

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops to the skillet. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). When done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a plate to rest.

3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant but be careful not to let it burn! Then add in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. If you like some spice, you can throw in the crushed red pepper flakes. Let this mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.

4. Thicken the Sauce:

Now, stir in the cornstarch slurry. This will help thicken the sauce! Cook for another minute or so until the sauce turns into a glossy glaze.

5. Coat the Pork Chops:

Return the pork chops to the skillet and make sure they are well-coated with the honey garlic sauce. Allow them to warm up in the sauce for an additional minute.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Transfer the coated pork chops to a serving platter. Drizzle any extra sauce over the top and garnish with fresh herbs for a lovely touch. Serve these sweet and savory pork chops hot with your favorite sides, such as fluffy rice or steamed veggies.

Enjoy this delightful, sticky honey garlic pork chops recipe—it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!

FAQ for Easy Boneless Pork Chops with Honey Garlic Sauce

Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?

Yes, you can definitely use bone-in pork chops! Just note that they will take a bit longer to cook, usually around 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.

What Can I Substitute for Honey?

If you’re looking for an alternative to honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar. Both will add a similar sweetness and flavor to the sauce and are great for keeping it delicious!

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pork chops in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until they are heated through. Add a splash of water to the skillet if the sauce is too thick.

Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?

Absolutely! If you love heat, you can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to your taste. For an even spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the honey garlic sauce!