Mouthwatering Glazed Pork Chops: Sweet Meets Savory

When you need a delicious, satisfying dinner in a hurry, look no further than these Glazed Pork Chops. This recipe transforms a simple weeknight staple into a memorable meal with a rich, caramelized glaze that is both sweet and deeply savory. Best of all, it comes together in just one pan in less than 20 minutes.

The secret to this recipe's success is the quick, high-heat sear that locks in the juices, followed by a simple glaze that is made right in the pan. The tender, juicy pork chops are perfectly complemented by the sticky, flavorful sauce, creating a dish that is guaranteed to become a new family favorite.

Mouthwatering Glazed Pork Chops

Yields: 4 servings

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops, about ¾-inch thick

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • For the Glaze:

    • ¼ cup honey or maple syrup

    • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

    • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

    • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Season the Pork Chops

  1. Pat Dry: Pat the pork chops completely dry with a paper towel. This is crucial for getting a good sear.

  2. Season: Season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

2. Sear the Pork Chops

  1. Heat Skillet: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.

  2. Sear: Place the pork chops in the hot skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until a golden-brown crust has formed.

3. Make the Glaze & Finish

  1. Lower Heat: Reduce the heat to medium-low.

  2. Add Glaze Ingredients: Pour the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic directly into the skillet.

  3. Simmer: Simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring to combine with the pan drippings.

  4. Coat Chops: Turn the pork chops in the glaze, coating them completely. Continue to simmer for 2-3 minutes, spooning the glaze over the chops as they cook, until the glaze has thickened slightly.

  5. Check Doneness: The pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

4. Serve

  1. Rest: Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

  2. Drizzle: Drizzle the remaining glaze from the pan over the rested pork chops.

Pro-Tips for a Perfect Pork Chop

  • Don't Overcook: Pork chops can dry out quickly. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure they are cooked to the perfect internal temperature of 145°F.

  • The Right Thickness: This recipe works best with thin-cut pork chops (¾-inch to 1-inch). Thicker chops will require a longer cooking time.

  • The Pat-Dry Trick: Patting the meat dry is a simple but important step. It helps the seasoning stick and ensures a beautiful, golden-brown crust.

  • Customize the Glaze: Adjust the glaze to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or a little fresh ginger for an Asian-inspired flavor.

  • Serve with Sides: These pork chops are delicious with a side of rice to soak up the extra glaze, or with some simple roasted vegetables.