These boneless pork chops are super easy to make and packed with tasty flavors! The honey garlic sauce brings a perfect sweet and savory twist that everyone will enjoy.
Cooking these chops is a breeze—just sear them in a pan, add the sauce, and let that yummy flavor soak in. I always serve them with rice to soak up the extra sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Pork Chops: These chops are perfect for quick cooking. If you can’t find boneless, bone-in chops work too. Just adjust cooking time, as they’ll take a bit longer.
Honey: This is the star of the sauce, adding sweetness. If you’re out of honey, maple syrup or agave syrup can work as alternatives, though the taste will slightly change.
Soy Sauce: It adds depth and saltiness. If you’re watching sodium, try low-sodium soy sauce or a gluten-free version. Coconut aminos are also a good substitute for a similar flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a nice tang. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or rice vinegar can be used instead, but the flavor will differ slightly.
Why is Searing Important for Pork Chops?
Searing gives the pork chops a beautiful golden crust and enhances flavor. Here are some tips:
- Make sure the pan is hot before adding the pork chops; this helps achieve a good sear.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; this can lead to steaming instead of searing.
- Let the pork sit in the pan; resist the urge to flip too soon, as this can prevent a nice crust from forming.
This technique is key to keeping the chops juicy while adding texture and taste. Happy cooking!
Easy Boneless Pork Chops with Honey Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook, making it a total of around 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Once dry, season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Seasoning is key to getting great flavor!
2. Cook the Pork Chops:
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully add the pork chops and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a nice golden brown color and they should be cooked through (check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F / 63°C). Try to keep them still in the pan to get those beautiful sear marks!
3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
Once the pork chops are cooked, remove them from the pan and set them aside on a plate. Lower the heat to medium. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can get bitter!
4. Add the Sauce Ingredients:
Now, stir in the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar. If you want to add some herby flavor, toss in the thyme. Let this sauce gently simmer for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly. The delicious aroma will fill your kitchen!
5. Combine and Serve:
Return the pork chops to the pan, and using a spoon, drizzle the sauce over the chops. Let them cook together for another 1-2 minutes so they can soak up all those fabulous flavors. Then, transfer the pork chops to a serving platter and drizzle any remaining sauce on top.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you’d like, garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme for a nice touch. Serve your succulent pork chops immediately with rice, mashed potatoes, or some steamed veggies. Enjoy!
This dish is sure to impress with its juicy chops and a sweet-and-savory glaze. Yum!
FAQ for Easy Boneless Pork Chops with Honey Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Chicken Instead of Pork Chops?
Absolutely! You can use boneless chicken breasts or thighs in place of pork chops. Cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), as chicken needs to be cooked longer than pork.
Can I Make This Recipe with Other Cuts of Pork?
Yes! This recipe works well with various cuts like pork loin or tenderloin. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different cuts may require more or less time to cook through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Double the Sauce for More Flavor?
Definitely! If you love the honey garlic sauce, feel free to double the ingredients in the sauce. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re cooking more pork chops at once to ensure they cook through properly!
