These easy honey garlic baked pork chops are sweet, sticky, and delicious! With just a handful of ingredients, they’re a breeze to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
I love how the honey coats the meat, making it finger-licking good! Pair these chops with some rice or veggies, and you’ve got a meal everyone will enjoy. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops deliver great flavor and stay juicy during cooking. If you prefer, boneless pork chops work too, just reduce the cooking time slightly for tenderness.
Honey: This is the star ingredient that gives the chops their sweetness. If you want a healthier option, try using maple syrup or agave nectar.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor. However, you could use garlic powder in a pinch. Just keep the quantity smaller (1 teaspoon) since it’s more concentrated.
Soy Sauce: For gluten-free needs, go with tamari or coconut aminos. Both options will maintain that savory depth without the gluten!
How Do You Get Perfectly Searing on Pork Chops?
Searing the pork chops is essential for locking in juices and building flavor. Here’s how to master it:
- Start with a dry chop; moisture can prevent a good sear.
- Use medium-high heat and add just enough oil to coat the skillet.
- Don’t rush it! Let the pork chops cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes. This allows a nice crust to form before flipping.
After flipping, you want the other side to sear for the same amount of time until golden brown. Perfectly seared chops will enhance the overall taste of your dish!
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 white vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
For the sides (optional as shown in the photo):
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 3 medium potatoes, sliced into wedges
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (for potatoes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 25-30 minutes to cook, plus additional time for roasting the sides if you choose to include them. Overall, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, get your oven ready! Preheat it to 400°F (200°C). This way, it will be hot and ready for the pork chops right when you need it.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better. Season both sides with salt and black pepper, and if you like, sprinkle some smoked paprika for extra flavor.
3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk it all together until it’s nice and smooth. Set this delicious sauce aside for later.
4. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil. When the oil is hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This gives them a lovely crust and locks in the juices!
5. Bake with Sauce:
Once the chops are nicely seared, pour the honey garlic sauce over them evenly. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The sauce will be bubbly and slightly thickened—yum!
6. Prepare the Sides (Optional):
If you want to add some sides, here’s how:
- Toss the potato wedges in a bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and rosemary. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through so they get crispy.
- For the asparagus, simply drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast in the oven for about 10 minutes until they are tender.
7. Serve:
Once everything is cooked, it’s time to serve! Plate the baked honey garlic pork chops alongside the roasted potatoes and asparagus. Drizzle any remaining sauce from the skillet over the pork chops for extra flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Enjoy your flavorful, tender honey garlic pork chops with perfectly roasted sides!
FAQ for Easy Honey Garlic Baked Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops work well, but be sure to reduce the baking time to about 10-15 minutes, as they cook faster than bone-in chops.
How Can I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, just replace the regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. It will still deliver great flavor without the gluten!
How Do I Know When the Pork Chops Are Done?
The best way to tell is by using a meat thermometer. The pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving for juicier meat.
