Ingredients
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
- Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
- Let them rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly and retain their juices.
Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops
- Heat olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the pan is hot, add the pork chops and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the pork chops from the pan and set aside on a plate while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the honey, soy sauce, and vinegar, stirring to combine.
- Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to slightly reduce and thicken.
- If a thicker sauce is desired, mix cornstarch with water and add it to the sauce, stirring continuously for another minute.
Step 4: Coat the Pork Chops
- Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them.
- Let them simmer in the sauce for another 3-4 minutes, ensuring they are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C).
- Flip the pork chops a few times to fully coat them in the sticky, flavorful sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the pork chops to a serving plate and drizzle any remaining sauce over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve immediately with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Honey Garlic Pork Chops
- Choose the Right Cut: Boneless pork chops work best for this recipe, but bone-in chops can also be used (just adjust the cooking time accordingly).
- Avoid Overcooking: Pork can dry out quickly, so use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and remove from heat as soon as it reaches 145°F.
- Let the Meat Rest: Allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes before serving to keep them juicy.
- Customize the Sauce: Add a splash of sriracha for extra heat or a touch of ginger for a deeper, more complex flavor.
Why These Are the Best Pork Chops Ever
These Honey Garlic Boneless Pork Chopsdeliver the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The exterior has a gorgeous caramelized crust, while the inside remains juicy and tender. The sauce is a magical mix of sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness that coats each bite beautifully. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also one that never fails to impress.