These tender boneless pork chops are cooked to perfection and slathered in a yummy sweet garlic sauce. It’s a delightful mix of sweet and savory that everyone will love!
Cooking pork chops can feel fancy, but this recipe makes it super easy. I always enjoy them with rice or veggies for a tasty meal. Trust me, your family won’t want to share! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Pork Chops: Choose chops that are at least 3/4 inch thick for juicy results. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try turkey cutlets or chicken breasts, but keep in mind cooking times may vary.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for this sauce due to its robust flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used, but start with less since it’s more concentrated. I always prefer fresh for the best taste!
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce gives that wonderful umami flavor. For a gluten-free option, use tamari. Or you can try coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter flavor without soy.
Honey: It adds sweetness to balance the savory sauce. If you prefer, agave syrup or maple syrup can also be used, both providing similar sweetness.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds tanginess to the sauce. If you don’t have it, white wine vinegar or rice vinegar work as great substitutes.
How Do I Get Juicy Pork Chops?
The secret to juicy pork chops is twofold: seasoning and cooking time. Properly seasoning your pork chops with salt and pepper creates a flavorful crust, while cooking them just right ensures tenderness.
- Make sure to use a medium-high heat to get a nice sear on the outside. Aim for about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; 145°F is the sweet spot for juiciness. Let the meat rest a few minutes after cooking before cutting into it.
With these tips, you’ll serve up delicious, perfectly cooked pork chops every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Boneless Pork Chops with Sweet Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 3/4 inch thick
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick meal for any weeknight dinner. Just a little over 25 minutes, and you’ll have succulent pork chops coated in a mouthwatering sweet garlic sauce!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by generously seasoning both sides of your boneless pork chops with salt and black pepper. This step is key to building flavor and ensuring your pork chops taste delicious!
2. Sear the Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should be around 145°F (63°C). When done, remove the chops from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
3. Create the Sweet Garlic Sauce:
In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Now, add the soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, ground ginger (if using), and red pepper flakes (if you like some heat). Give everything a good stir and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
Let the sauce simmer lightly for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help it thicken slightly, intensifying those yummy flavors.
5. Coat the Pork Chops:
Now it’s time to return the pork chops to the pan! Turn them in the sauce to coat them evenly in that sweet garlic goodness. Cook them together for another minute or two so they can really soak up the flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the pork chops to a serving platter and spoon any remaining sauce over the top. Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs for a lovely touch. Serve them hot alongside rice, steamed vegetables, or your favorite side dish, and enjoy your delicious meal!
Bon appétit! You just made a fantastic dish that’s sure to impress!
FAQ for Easy Boneless Pork Chops with Sweet Garlic Sauce
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can definitely use bone-in pork chops! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may take a bit longer to cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) before serving.
How Do I Make This Recipe Lower in Sodium?
If you’re looking to reduce sodium, consider using low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos as a substitute. Additionally, you can minimize the amount of soy sauce by adding extra honey or vinegar for flavor.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) in a mix of the soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic will enhance the flavors. Just ensure you refrigerate them during the marinating process.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
These sweet garlic pork chops pair beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. For a lighter option, a fresh salad or roasted vegetables also complements the dish nicely!
