From Dry To Divine: How To Honey Glaze Pork Chops Like A Pro
What To Know
- Pour the remaining glaze over the pork chops and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the glaze has thickened.
- Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the glaze for a bright and citrusy flavor.
- Yes, you can cook the pork chops in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
Honey glazed pork chops are a classic dish that combines the succulent tenderness of pork with the sweet and tangy flavor of honey. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a casual weeknight meal, this recipe will guide you through every step of creating this delectable dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 pound)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Preparation
1. Prepare the Pork Chops: Remove the pork chops from the refrigerator and pat them dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper.
2. Combine the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Marinate the Pork Chops: Place the pork chops in a resealable plastic bag and pour the glaze over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
Cooking the Pork Chops
1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil.
2. Sear the Pork Chops: Remove the pork chops from the marinade and discard the marinade. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown.
3. Reduce Heat and Glaze: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour the remaining glaze over the pork chops and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the glaze has thickened.
4. Rest the Pork Chops: Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Honey glazed pork chops pair well with a variety of side dishes, including:
- Roasted vegetables
- Mashed potatoes
- Rice
- Salads
Tips for Perfect Honey Glazed Pork Chops
- Use boneless pork chops: Boneless pork chops will cook more evenly and quickly than bone-in chops.
- Marinate the pork chops: Marinating the pork chops helps tenderize them and allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Don’t overcook the pork chops: Overcooked pork chops will become dry and tough. Cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that your pork chops are cooked to perfection.
Variations on the Honey Glaze
- Spicy Honey Glaze: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Citrus Honey Glaze: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the glaze for a bright and citrusy flavor.
- Garlic Honey Glaze: Add 2 minced cloves of garlic to the glaze for a savory depth of flavor.
Questions You May Have
- Can I use other types of honey? Yes, you can use any type of honey you like. Darker honeys, such as buckwheat honey, will give the glaze a richer flavor.
- Can I make the glaze ahead of time? Yes, you can make the glaze up to 2 days ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Can I cook the pork chops in the oven? Yes, you can cook the pork chops in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through.