Pork Chops with a Crunchy Honey Garlic Sauce

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Pork Chops with a Crunchy Honey Garlic Sauce

Description
These pork chops are seared until golden and juicy, then coated in a sticky honey garlic sauce with a subtle crunch from toasted bits of garlic and optional breadcrumbs or nuts. Sweet, savory, and deeply comforting, this is the kind of weeknight recipe that feels indulgent but comes together quickly, which explains why it earns a regular spot on the menu.

Ingredients

For the pork chops

  • 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon butter

For the honey garlic sauce

  • 1/3 cup honey

  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)

  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

For the crunch

  • 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs or finely chopped toasted almonds

  • 1 teaspoon olive oil or butter

Garnish (optional)

  • Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Season the pork chops
    Pat the pork chops dry. Season both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.

  2. Sear the pork chops
    Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    Add pork chops and sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side until deeply golden and cooked through (internal temp 145°F / 63°C).
    Remove from skillet and set aside.

  3. Make the honey garlic sauce
    Lower heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the same pan and sauté for 20 to 30 seconds until fragrant.
    Stir in honey, soy sauce, vinegar, Dijon mustard, and chili flakes.
    Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.

  4. Prepare the crunchy topping
    In a small pan, toast panko or nuts with a little oil or butter until golden and crisp. Set aside.

  5. Combine
    Return pork chops to the skillet, spooning sauce over them. Simmer 1 to 2 minutes to glaze.

  6. Finish & serve
    Sprinkle crunchy topping and fresh herbs over the pork chops. Serve immediately with extra sauce.

Notes

  • Bone-in chops stay juicier, but boneless work well if not overcooked.

  • The sauce thickens more as it cools, so keep it slightly loose in the pan.

  • Works equally well with chicken thighs or salmon.

Tips for Best Results

  • Let pork chops rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking.

  • Do not overcrowd the pan or the chops will steam instead of sear.

  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor and crunch contrast.

  • For extra crunch, double the topping and add just before serving.

Servings

  • Serves: 4

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)

  • Calories: 420

  • Protein: 32 g

  • Fat: 18 g

  • Carbohydrates: 34 g

  • Sugar: 22 g

  • Sodium: 620 mg

Benefits

  • High in protein for muscle maintenance and satiety

  • Honey provides quick energy and antioxidants

  • Garlic supports heart health and immune function

  • Balanced sweet-savory flavors reduce the need for heavy sides

Q & A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, but keep the crunch separate and add it just before serving.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I make it less sweet?
A: Reduce honey to 1/4 cup and add a splash more vinegar or soy sauce.

Q: What pairs well with this dish?
A: Mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free soy sauce and replace panko with nuts or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

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