These Easy Honey Garlic Baked Pork Chops are super simple and packed with flavor! The sweet honey and tangy garlic sauce creates a tasty glaze that makes every bite amazing.
I love how quickly this dish comes together—just mix the sauce, pour it over the chops, and pop them in the oven. Even my picky eaters ask for seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I love using bone-in pork chops for their juicy flavor and tenderness. If you have boneless chops, those work too but might cook faster. Just keep an eye on the time!
Honey: Honey adds great sweetness. You can swap it for maple syrup if you prefer or have it on hand. Just note that the flavor will change slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a lot of flavor, but if you’re out, you can use garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon) instead—though fresh is always best in my opinion!
Soy Sauce: Look for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake! Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative if that’s a concern.
Smoked Paprika: This spice gives a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika can be used, but you might miss out on that smoky punch.
How Do I Get Pork Chops to Stay Juicy?
Keeping pork chops juicy is all about cooking them properly! Here’s how to ensure they don’t dry out:
- Make sure to pat them dry before seasoning. This helps with browning.
- Don’t skip the resting period after baking—this allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist chops.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Remove them at 145°F (63°C) to prevent overcooking.
- Basting the chops halfway through baking really helps infuse moisture and flavor from the sauce.
Following these tips should leave you with delicious, juicy pork chops that everyone will love!
Easy Honey Garlic Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to bake. So, overall, you’re looking at roughly 40 minutes until you can enjoy these delicious pork chops! Just a bit of active time and then you can kick back while they cook.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pork chops will start cooking at the right temperature right away. Line a baking dish with foil or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined, then set it aside. This sauce is going to give your pork chops so much flavor!
3. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps them cook better. Season both sides of the chops with a little more salt and pepper for extra flavor.
4. Coat the Chops:
Place the pork chops in your prepared baking dish. Pour the honey garlic sauce over them, making sure to coat them generously. Use a spoon to make sure every chop gets some of that tasty sauce!
5. Bake!
Put the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). About halfway through baking, baste the chops with the sauce in the pan to help keep them moist and flavorful.
6. Broil for a Finish:
If you’d like a nice, caramelized top, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn!
7. Let Them Rest:
Once they’re done, take the pork chops out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy when you cut into them. If you want, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color!
8. Serve:
Enjoy your delicious pork chops with roasted potatoes and sautéed or roasted asparagus for a complete meal, just like in the image you see! Trust me, this dish will impress everyone at the table.
This recipe combines that perfect balance of sweet and savory in the honey garlic sauce, making the pork chops utterly delicious. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Honey Garlic Baked Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe, but they may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness at around 20-25 minutes. You want an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they’re safe to eat.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to prevent them from drying out. A splash of water or a bit of sauce can help keep them moist!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Honey?
Yes! If you prefer not to use honey, you can substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness. Keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
What Sides Pair Well with These Pork Chops?
These honey garlic pork chops are fantastic served with roasted potatoes or rice, and steamed or roasted veggies like asparagus or green beans. A simple salad also makes a great side to round out the meal!
