Honey Glazed Pork Chops are tender pork slices cooked with a sweet, sticky honey and a touch of seasoning. They’re perfect when you want a quick, flavorful meal with a nice balance of sweet and savory.
I love how the glaze makes the pork chops shiny and tempting. I often sneak in a little extra honey just because it tastes so good!
For an easy dinner, serve these with steamed veggies or mashed potatoes. I find they taste even better the next day—if they last that long!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Honey: This adds natural sweetness and creates the glaze. I recommend local or raw honey for richer flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, maple syrup works well as a substitute.
Pork Chops: Thick-cut pork chops stay juicy and tender. Bone-in chops add flavor, but boneless work too. If you can’t find pork, chicken breasts can be a lighter alternative—just adjust cooking time.
Soy Sauce: It provides saltiness and umami, balancing the sweetness. Low-sodium soy keeps it from being too salty, or you can use coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth. I always use freshly minced garlic for the best aroma. If out, garlic powder can work—just halve the amount for a milder flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds brightness and helps balance flavors. White vinegar is a good substitute if needed. Too much can overpower; add gradually to taste.
How do I sear pork chops without them drying out?
Heat your pan until it’s hot before adding the pork. Pat the chops dry with paper towels, then sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Keep the heat high enough to get a good crust but not so high that the outside burns.
- Don’t move the pork around too much during searing—let it develop a crust.
- Use tongs to flip, avoiding piercing the meat which causes moisture loss.
- Finish with a light sauce or glaze, then let the chops rest for a few minutes before serving to keep juices in.
How to Make Honey Glazed Pork Chops?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Honey Glaze
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
For Garnish
- Fresh thyme or parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep: 10 minutes, Cook: 15 minutes, Rest: 5 minutes. Total time: about 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. Make the Honey Glaze
In a small bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, and Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth.
3. Cook the Pork Chops
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add pork chops. Cook 4-5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
4. Add the Glaze
Pour the honey mixture over the pork chops in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, spooning glaze over meat often.
5. Rest and Serve
Remove pork chops from skillet. Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with thyme or parsley if desired. Serve warm.