These boneless pork chops are juicy and flavorful, thanks to a sweet and sticky honey garlic sauce. Cooking them is quick and easy—perfect for a busy night!
I love how simple this dish is to whip up. Just sear the chops and let the sauce work its magic. You’ll impress everyone at the dinner table without breaking a sweat!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Pork Chops: Choose chops that are about 1-inch thick for best results. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute them with turkey cutlets, which also work well with this sauce.
Honey: This ingredient adds sweetness and stickiness. If you need a sugar-free option, try agave syrup or maple syrup. Both can mimic honey’s texture without sacrificing flavor.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce brings saltiness to the dish. For a gluten-free alternative, you can use tamari, or coconut aminos for a milder taste.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds tanginess. If you don’t have it on hand, rice vinegar makes a perfect substitute. It’s less acidic and still gives a nice flavor.
How Can I Achieve Juicy Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky, but it’s all about achieving that perfect sear and keeping them juicy. Start by patting the chops dry. This helps to get a nice crust. Don’t rush the cooking time; let them sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 145°F (63°C) is ideal. This ensures they’re juicy and not overcooked.
- Let the chops rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful.
Easy Boneless Pork Chops with Honey Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish requires about 10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes of cooking time, making the total time about 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Season the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you decide to use it.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Carefully add the pork chops to the pan and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Cook until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove the chops from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant (be careful not to let it brown). Next, stir in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer, cooking for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes glossy.
4. Coat the Pork Chops with Sauce:
Return the cooked pork chops to the pan, turning them to thoroughly coat in the honey garlic sauce. Let them cook in the sauce for another 1-2 minutes to soak up all those delicious flavors.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the pork chops to a serving platter, spoon the remaining sauce over the top, and if you like, garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs. Serve immediately with your choice of sides such as steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes. Enjoy your meal!
This recipe makes tender, flavorful pork chops with a delicious sweet-savory honey garlic glaze. You’ll find these chops are sure to become a family favorite!
FAQ for Easy Boneless Pork Chops with Honey Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw them first. The best way to thaw frozen pork chops is to leave them in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method by sealing them in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a substitute for honey, agave nectar or maple syrup works well. Both will provide that sweet, sticky consistency without altering the flavor too much.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist, or microwave them in short bursts until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the honey garlic sauce in advance and cook the pork chops right before serving. Alternatively, you can cook the entire dish ahead of time and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to keep the pork chops covered to maintain their moisture!
