These boneless pork chops are juicy and tender, cooked to perfection with a sweet and sticky honey garlic sauce. It’s a simple dinner that’s full of flavor!
Fun fact: the best part is how quickly they cook—perfect if you’re short on time. Pair them with some rice and veggies, and you’ve got a yummy meal in no time! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Pork Chops: These are key for tenderness. If you prefer another cut, try bone-in chops or pork tenderloin for a different texture.
Honey: This gives the sauce its sweetness. You can use maple syrup or agave nectar if you’re looking for a substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds great flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work as a substitute, but fresh is always better!
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and depth. If you need a gluten-free option, look for tamari or coconut aminos instead.
Dried Thyme: A nice herbal touch! You can swap it for other herbs like oregano or rosemary, depending on your taste.
How Can I Get My Pork Chops Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky, but following these tips will help you get them just right! Start by bringing your chops to room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Heat the oil until it’s shimmering, which indicates it’s hot enough to sear the pork chops.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary. This helps achieve that beautiful golden brown crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 145°F is the magic number for juicy chops.
Let the chops rest for a few minutes before serving so the juices can redistribute. Enjoy your meal!
Easy Boneless Pork Chops with Honey Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and 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 dried thyme (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 10-15 minutes of cooking time. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Pork Chops:
Start by generously seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. This adds flavor to the meat right from the start!
2. Cooking the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until hot. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and cooked through (aim for an internal temperature of 145°F / 63°C). Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Making the Honey Garlic Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, but watch closely so it doesn’t burn. Next, stir in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. If you’re using thyme and red pepper flakes, add those in as well. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
4. Coating the Pork Chops:
Return the cooked pork chops to the skillet. Turn them in the honey garlic sauce until they are well coated. Let them cook in the sauce for an additional 1-2 minutes to soak up all that delicious flavor!
5. Final Touches:
Remove skillet from heat. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
6. Serving:
Serve the pork chops hot with your choice of rice, steamed vegetables, or any side dish you love. Enjoy the sweet and savory goodness of your honey garlic pork chops!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Boneless Pork Chops with Honey Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Bone-in pork chops have a bit more flavor and can be juicier. Just remember to increase the cooking time by a few minutes, and always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re out of honey, maple syrup or agave nectar are great substitutes that will still give you a nice sweetness in the sauce. Just use the same amount as you would honey!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! You can add more red pepper flakes, or even some diced jalapeños, to increase the heat level. Adjust to your personal taste preferences and enjoy the kick!
