Honey Garlic Pork Chops

Name: Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in pork chops; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup honey; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Favorites

When I first made Honey Garlic Pork Chops, I was blown away by how simple yet flavorful the dish turned out to be. The combination of honey and garlic creates a delightful glaze that caramelizes perfectly while the pork chops sear to perfection. Each bite is bursting with a savory sweetness that pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or vegetables. I love how quick this meal comes together, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen.

Created by

Hannah Lewis

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:24:36.526Z

Making Honey Garlic Pork Chops has become one of my favorite dinner rituals. The moment the sweet aroma of honey mingles with savory garlic fills the kitchen, I know it’s going to be a hit. I remember experimenting with the right ratio of honey to garlic, and the balance made all the difference! Adjusting the cook time also helps ensure a tender, juicy chop.

One of the best tips I picked up along the way was to let the pork chops rest after cooking. This crucial step not only locks in the juices but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a truly delightful meal. Serve it up with steamed broccoli or fragrant jasmine rice, and you’re in for a treat!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory flavors that captivate your taste buds
Minimal prep time makes it perfect for busy nights
A crowd-pleaser that's sure to impress family and friends

The Perfect Sear

Achieving a perfect sear on your pork chops is essential for flavor development in this dish. Start with room-temperature pork chops; this helps them cook more evenly. The oil should be shimmering in the pan before adding the meat, which ensures a nice crust forms. Sear each chop for 4-5 minutes without moving them around; you want that deep golden color to develop crusty edges that lock in juices.

If you're unsure about the doneness, a meat thermometer can be your best friend here. Pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Ensure you have a good quality thermometer to avoid overcooking which can lead to dry meat. If your chops are thicker than an inch, adjust the searing time accordingly—allow for an extra minute or two per side.

Crafting the Honey Garlic Sauce

The honey garlic sauce is what really elevates these pork chops from simple to sensational. Combining honey with the umami notes of soy sauce and the acidity of apple cider vinegar creates a well-rounded flavor profile that balances sweetness with savory depth. Don’t rush this step; allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens slightly and becomes glossy, which should take about 5-7 minutes after adding the pork back into the skillet.

Experimenting with the sauce can introduce new dimensions to your dish. For instance, if you're seeking some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to your sauce. On the other hand, if you prefer a sweeter taste, consider incorporating a tablespoon of brown sugar. Never underestimate the impact of fresh ginger; it adds a delightful warmth that complements the garlic perfectly.

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops

4 bone-in pork chops
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Honey Garlic Sauce

1/2 cup honey
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Heat the Pan

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Sear the Pork Chops

Add the pork chops to the hot skillet and sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.

Make the Sauce

While the pork is cooking, combine honey, garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, and ginger in a small bowl.

Glaze the Pork Chops

Pour the sauce over the pork chops in the skillet. Lower the heat and allow to simmer for another 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.

Rest and Serve

Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the top.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the pork chops in the honey garlic sauce for at least 30 minutes or even overnight before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

These Honey Garlic Pork Chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Steamed jasmine rice or fluffy mashed potatoes can soak up the delicious sauce, while sautéed green beans or roasted broccoli add a nice crunch and balance to the dish. For a refreshing touch, consider a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil alongside the rich pork.

If you want to add an element of surprise, use the leftover sauce as a marinade for grilled vegetables or as a glaze for roasted carrots. It’s versatile and adds a layer of flavor that enhances the entire meal. Get creative and plate it beautifully for a dish that not only tastes great but also looks impressive.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftovers, store the pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the chops from drying out. Consider adding a splash of water or extra sauce to keep moisture levels up while warming them through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

For longer storage, freeze the cooked pork chops in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This recipe holds up well to freezing since the flavors of the honey garlic sauce meld beautifully, enhancing the dish once reheated. Just make sure you reheat slowly to maintain the tenderness of the pork.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless pork chops?

Yes, you can use boneless pork chops, but reduce the cooking time slightly as they cook faster.

→ What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

Steamed broccoli, jasmine rice, or a fresh salad make excellent side dishes.

→ Can I make the honey garlic sauce in advance?

Absolutely! The sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.