These Easy Honey Garlic Baked Pork Chops are a real treat! With a sweet and sticky glaze made from honey and garlic, they are flavorful and juicy, perfect for dinner any night.
Honestly, it’s hard to resist the smell while they’re baking! I love serving them with rice or veggies, and they always impress my family. Who knew pork chops could be this tasty? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great because they stay juicy and flavorful. If you prefer, boneless chops work too, but keep an eye on cooking times as they may cook faster.
Honey: This is what gives the sauce its sweetness! If you’re looking for a sugar alternative, try maple syrup or agave nectar.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Just use about 1 teaspoon of powder for every clove of fresh garlic.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a bit of tanginess. If you don’t have it, lemon juice is a perfect substitute. Both help balance the sweetness of the honey.
Potatoes and Asparagus: Feel free to swap other vegetables. Carrots or green beans can be a nice alternative. You can also use sweet potatoes for a different twist.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor in the Pork Chops?
To make sure your pork chops are packed with flavor, start by seasoning them well with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you like a smoky taste. Searing them in a hot skillet before baking locks in moisture and enhances the flavor.
- Use medium-high heat and give the chops about 2-3 minutes per side to get a good golden crust.
- Don’t forget to baste them with the honey garlic sauce while they bake. This adds more flavor and keeps them juicy!
Easy Honey Garlic Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- Fresh or dried rosemary (for potatoes)
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced or quartered
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- Salt and pepper for vegetables
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 40 minutes in total: about 10 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking. You’ll love how quickly and easily you can create a delicious homemade meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the pork chops will cook evenly and get that nice, caramelized exterior.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the sliced potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and a few sprigs of rosemary. Spread the potatoes out on one side of a baking sheet. These will roast alongside the pork chops.
3. Start Baking the Potatoes:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and let the potatoes bake for about 20-25 minutes, until they start to soften.
4. Season the Pork Chops:
While the potatoes are baking, season both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it for extra flavor.
5. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). This will be the tasty sauce that glazes your pork chops.
6. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown.
7. Combine Everything on the Baking Sheet:
When the potatoes have baked for about 20 minutes, take the baking sheet out of the oven, and gently push the potatoes to one side to make room for the pork chops. Place the seared pork chops on the other side.
8. Brush with Sauce:
Brush at least half of the honey garlic sauce over the pork chops to give them that delicious glaze. You’ll want to save the rest for basting later!
9. Add the Asparagus:
Now, add the trimmed asparagus to the same baking sheet. Drizzle it with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper for flavor.
10. Bake Everything Together:
Put the baking sheet back in the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes. Don’t forget to baste the pork chops with the remaining honey garlic sauce halfway through. You’ll know the pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
11. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once everything is cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes. This ensures they’re juicy! Serve them up with the roasted potatoes and asparagus, and enjoy your delicious meal!
These Easy Honey Garlic Baked Pork Chops are so comforting and flavorful—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a lovely weekend meal!
FAQ: Easy Honey Garlic Baked Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Boneless pork chops will work well, but they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Check for doneness when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you need a substitute for honey, maple syrup or agave nectar can be used for a similar sweetness. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. This will help retain moisture, especially for the pork chops.
Can This Recipe Be Made in Advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the pork chops in the honey garlic sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat even more. When ready to cook, simply follow the cooking instructions as usual!
