Tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, these Boneless Pork Chops with Honey Garlic Sauce are a weeknight dinner dream come true. Pan-seared to golden perfection and coated in a glossy, sweet-and-savory sauce made with honey, garlic, and a hint of soy, these pork chops deliver bold flavor with minimal effort. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant—ready in under 30 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Boneless Pork Chops with Honey Garlic Sauce
Juicy and Flavorful: Boneless pork chops stay moist and absorb all that rich honey garlic goodness.
Quick and Easy: A simple recipe that comes together in one pan—perfect for busy evenings.
Sweet & Savory Sauce: The honey garlic glaze adds irresistible depth and balance.
Family-Friendly: A dish even picky eaters will devour!
Great with Anything: Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed veggies for a complete, comforting meal.
Ingredients
Golden pork chops simmered in a bold blend of honey, garlic, and savory seasonings:
Boneless pork chops: These are the stars of the dish. Look for chops that are about 1 inch thick for the best results.
Olive oil: A staple in many kitchens, it helps to sear the pork chops to golden perfection.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, they enhance the natural flavors of the pork.
Honey: This sweet ingredient is what makes the sauce shine, adding a delightful glaze to the chops.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a robust flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey.
Soy sauce: This adds a savory depth to the sauce, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
Apple cider vinegar: A splash of acidity brightens the dish and cuts through the richness.
Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, it gives it that perfect, glossy finish.
Water: Helps to dissolve the cornstarch and create a smooth sauce.
For those looking to mix things up, consider marinating the pork chops in the honey garlic sauce for about 30 minutes before cooking. If you’re out of pork, chicken breasts or thighs can be a great substitute. And for a spicy twist, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Exact measurements for these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Boneless Pork Chops with Honey Garlic Sauce
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Making Boneless Pork Chops with Honey Garlic Sauce is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and let it warm up. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke. This is where the magic begins, as the oil will help create that beautiful sear on the pork chops.
Step 2: Season the Pork Chops
While the skillet is heating, season both sides of your boneless pork chops with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy! This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the meat. A good sprinkle will make a world of difference.
Step 3: Cook the Pork Chops
Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the pork chops in the pan. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a golden brown crust. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 145°F. This ensures juicy, tender pork chops every time.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
After removing the pork chops from the skillet, it’s time to make the sauce. Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, in a small bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, cornstarch, and water. Pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring well. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked pork chops to the skillet, spooning the honey garlic sauce over them. Let them heat through for an additional minute. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Once done, remove from heat and let the chops rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This resting period helps keep the meat juicy!
Tips for Success
Always let your pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps them juicy.
For extra flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in the honey garlic sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness at 145°F.
Don’t rush the sauce; let it simmer to achieve the right thickness.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey to taste.
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works wonders, but any heavy-bottomed pan will do.
Meat thermometer: Essential for checking doneness; a simple instant-read thermometer is perfect.
Small bowl: For mixing the sauce ingredients; a measuring cup can also work.
Spatula: Use this to flip the pork chops and stir the sauce.
Variations
Spicy Honey Garlic Sauce: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the sauce for an aromatic twist.
Fruit-Infused: Mix in some orange or pineapple juice with the honey for a fruity flavor profile.
Low-Carb Option: Substitute honey with a sugar-free sweetener to make it keto-friendly.
Vegetarian Version: Swap the pork chops for thick slices of eggplant or tofu, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes: Pair with steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus for a colorful plate.
Starch Options: Serve over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce.
Drink Pairing: A chilled white wine or a light beer complements the flavors beautifully.
Presentation: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color.
FAQs about Boneless Pork Chops with Honey Garlic Sauce
Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops can add extra flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for honey in the sauce?
If you’re looking for a substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar works well. They’ll provide a similar sweetness, but with a unique twist.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to keep the pork juicy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. Just cook the pork chops fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce, this Boneless Pork Chops with Honey Garlic Sauce is a great gluten-free option!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Boneless Pork Chops with Honey Garlic Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings joy to the table. The sweet and savory flavors create a delightful harmony that can turn an ordinary weeknight into something special. I love how this dish is not only quick to prepare but also impresses family and friends alike. With each bite, you’ll savor the tender pork coated in that luscious sauce. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let this recipe bring warmth and happiness to your kitchen. You won’t regret it!
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper.
Add the pork chops to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F).
Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
In a small bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, cornstarch, and water.
Pour this mixture into the skillet and stir well to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
Remove from heat and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in the honey garlic sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
You can substitute the pork chops with chicken breasts or thighs for a different protein option.
If you prefer a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
