These Easy Honey Garlic Baked Pork Chops are a tasty way to enjoy dinner! With sweet honey and garlic, every bite is yummy and full of flavor. Plus, they bake in the oven, so it’s easy clean-up!
I love how quick this recipe is! Just mix the sauce, pour it over the chops, and let the oven do its magic. Perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something delicious without a fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops add flavor and juiciness. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops will work. Just reduce the cooking time a bit—check them earlier to avoid overcooking.
Honey: Honey is the star of this dish, giving sweetness and a nice glaze. If you need a substitute, maple syrup or agave syrup can work in a pinch, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds an umami flavor. For a low-sodium option, choose low-sodium soy sauce, or use tamari for a gluten-free version.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a tangy kick to balance the sweetness. You can use lemon juice instead if that’s what you have on hand. It will bring a slightly different flavor but will still work well!
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy pork chops is searing them first before baking. When you sear, you create a crust that locks in moisture. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the chops.
- Cook the chops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms. Don’t skip this step—it adds both flavor and texture!
After searing, pour over your honey garlic sauce and bake until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This way, you’ll have juicy and well-flavored pork chops every time!
Easy Honey Garlic Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and 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 lemon juice)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, plus about 5 minutes to rest the pork chops. In just about 35 minutes, you can have a tasty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Season:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, season your pork chops generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This adds flavor right from the start!
2. Sear the Chops:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This searing step really locks in the juices and flavor. Once done, remove the skillet from heat.
3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and dried thyme (if using). Whisk until everything is well combined. This simple sauce will give your pork chops a sweet and tangy flavor!
4. Combine and Bake:
Pour the honey garlic sauce over the seared pork chops in the skillet, ensuring they are well coated. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C). This ensures they are cooked through while remaining juicy.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven (it will be hot!). Let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor. Enjoy your sweet and savory honey garlic baked pork chops warm with your favorite sides!
FAQ for Easy Honey Garlic Baked Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, boneless pork chops will work well! Just reduce the cooking time slightly, checking for doneness a few minutes earlier to ensure they don’t dry out.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you need a substitute for honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar. Keep in mind that it will change the flavor mildly, but it will still taste delicious!
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or microwave, adding a little splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Skillet?
Absolutely! You can add veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots to the skillet before baking. Just ensure they’re cut into even pieces so they cook through at the same rate as the pork chops.
