These honey garlic baked pork chops are super easy to make and taste amazing! They are sweet, savory, and have a lovely sticky glaze that makes every bite delicious.
What I love most is how quickly they cook in the oven with hardly any mess. Perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without the fuss. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are my go-to for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless pork chops work just as well! Just check them earlier for doneness as they might cook faster.
Honey: This ingredient creates that lovely sticky glaze. If you want a sugar-free option, you can use agave syrup or maple syrup for a different flavor twist.
Soy Sauce: It adds umami to the dish. If you’re watching your sodium intake, try low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with flavor. If fresh garlic isn’t available, garlic powder can be used. Just remember, 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder is about equal to one clove.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary add some lovely aroma. If you have fresh herbs, they’d be even better! You can skip them entirely if you’re not a fan.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops Without Drying Them Out?
The key to juicy pork chops lies in proper cooking and resting. Here’s how to ensure they stay moist:
- Start with a meat thermometer. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This guarantees they’re juicy but fully cooked.
- Basting halfway through adds moisture and enhances flavor. Just scoop some of that yummy sauce over the pork chops!
- Let the chops rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite tender.
How to Make Easy Honey Garlic Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For Serving:
- Roasted potatoes
- Steamed or roasted asparagus
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes for baking. Plus, you’ll want to let the chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. So in total, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your pork chops cook evenly and have a nice glaze.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and pat them dry using paper towels. This will help them sear better in the oven. Then, season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it.
3. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and dried thyme or rosemary. Whisk everything together until well mixed.
4. Coat the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a baking dish in a single layer. Drizzle the honey garlic mixture evenly over the pork chops, ensuring they are well coated in that delicious sauce!
5. Bake the Pork Chops:
Put the baking dish in the oven and bake the pork chops uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Baste for Extra Flavor:
Halfway through cooking, take a spoon and baste the pork chops with some of the sauce from the bottom of the dish. This adds extra moisture and enhances the flavor.
7. Broil for a Perfect Finish (Optional):
If you want that beautiful caramelized topping, switch your oven to broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. Just keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn!
8. Let Them Rest:
When they are done, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute for maximum juiciness.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate your honey garlic pork chops alongside roasted potatoes and steamed or roasted asparagus for a complete meal. Dig in and savor the sweet and savory goodness!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful honey garlic baked pork chops with the perfect balance of sweet and savory!
FAQ About Easy Honey Garlic Baked Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Just be sure to check them earlier while baking, as they may cook a bit faster than bone-in chops.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you prefer a different sweetener, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar. Each will provide a unique flavor but still deliciously sweeten the pork chops.
How Do I Know When the Pork Chops Are Done?
The best way to check for doneness is using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). This ensures the pork chops are safely cooked and still juicy!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pork chops and sauce ahead of time. Simply marinate them for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, follow the baking instructions for a quick dinner!
