Honey Garlic Pork Chops

Name: Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in pork chops; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Favorites

I absolutely love making Honey Garlic Pork Chops because they’re a wonderful balance of sweet and savory. The sticky honey glaze combined with garlic creates an irresistible flavor that is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Each bite is juicy and tender, with a crispy exterior that pairs perfectly with rice or vegetables. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m excited to share it with you, so let’s dive in and enjoy these delicious pork chops together!

Created by

Hannah Lewis

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:20:37.067Z

When I first tried making Honey Garlic Pork Chops, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet flavorful they were. The combination of soy sauce, honey, and garlic created this amazing glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the pan. I recommend letting the pork chops marinate for at least 30 minutes, which adds even more depth to the flavor.

One tip that I’ve learned along the way is to sear the pork chops on high heat first, then reduce the heat to let them cook through. This ensures that you get that nice golden crust while keeping the meat tender and juicy. Trust me; it makes a world of difference!

Why You'll Love These Pork Chops
Sweet and savory harmony that tantalizes your taste buds
Quick and easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights
Juicy, tender pork chops with a delightful glaze
Impressive enough for special occasions or dinner parties

Marinade Magic

The marinade for these Honey Garlic Pork Chops plays a pivotal role in achieving that perfect balance of sweet and savory. Honey not only adds a delightful sweetness but also helps create a sticky glaze that clings to the chops as they cook. Soy sauce introduces depth and a touch of umami, enhancing the overall flavor profile. The minced garlic infuses the meat with aromatic goodness that makes each bite memorable. Be sure to whisk the marinade well to allow all the flavors to meld together before marinating the pork.

It's recommended to marinate the pork chops for at least 30 minutes, but if time permits, two to four hours in the refrigerator will elevate the flavor even further. The longer the pork chops sit in the marinade, the more tender and flavorful they become. For an easy make-ahead option, you can marinate them a day in advance and keep them in the fridge until you're ready to cook. Just remember to bring them to room temperature for about 15 minutes before searing, ensuring even cooking.

Searing to Perfection

Searing the pork chops is crucial for developing a golden crust that locks in juices. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat, allowing the olive oil to shimmer before adding the pork chops. A hot skillet will help create that nice Maillard reaction, producing rich, savory flavors. Sear the chops for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are beautifully browned. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook in batches to prevent steaming instead of searing.

To ensure you achieve the desired internal temperature of 145°F, use a meat thermometer to check the pork's doneness. After the initial sear, lowering the heat to medium-low helps cook the chops evenly without burning the exterior. Pour the remaining marinade into the skillet and let it reduce slightly. This method not only infuses flavor but also keeps the pork juicy and moist.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious Honey Garlic Pork Chops:

Ingredients

4 bone-in pork chops
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Make sure to have these ingredients ready before you start cooking to ensure a smooth process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Honey Garlic Pork Chops:

Prepare Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined.

Marinate Pork Chops

Place the pork chops in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Cover and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Sear the Chops

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add pork chops and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust.

Cook Through

Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour any remaining marinade into the skillet. Cook for an additional 6-8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the meat reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Serve

Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Honey Garlic Pork Chops with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, add a bit of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a subtle kick!

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the meal, serve the honey garlic pork chops over a bed of fluffy white rice or alongside roasted vegetables. The glaze is perfect for drizzling on these sides, ensuring every element of your plate is packed with flavor. A fresh cucumber salad can also provide a crisp contrast to the rich, sweet chops, balancing the dish perfectly.

For a touch of gourmet flair, consider adding toasted sesame seeds and a squeeze of fresh lime over the chops just before serving. This not only adds texture but also a refreshing brightness that complements the honey and garlic beautifully.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the cooked pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, it's best to use the stove over low heat to prevent drying out the meat. A splash of water or additional marinade can help maintain moisture during the reheating process. Avoid using a microwave as it can lead to rubbery textures.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pork chops. Once cooled, wrap each chop tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and store them in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently as mentioned earlier, ensuring they remain juicy and flavorful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless pork chops?

Yes! Boneless pork chops will work just as well. Adjust the cooking time a bit as they may cook faster.

→ How can I ensure the pork chops are juicy?

Marinating the pork chops for at least 30 minutes is key. Searing them on high heat also helps lock in moisture.

→ What should I serve with these pork chops?

These pork chops pair perfectly with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

→ Can leftovers be stored?

Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid dry meat.