These Easy Double Crunch Honey Garlic Pork Chops are a yummy way to turn dinner into a treat. They’re tender and packed with a sweet and tangy flavor that everyone loves!
What I adore about this recipe is the crunchy exterior—it’s like a party for your mouth! I like to serve them with some rice or veggies. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I like using boneless, center-cut pork chops for this recipe as they have less fat and are really tender. If you want a leaner option, you can try boneless chicken breasts instead!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give that extra crunch that makes the chops so tasty! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but you might want to toast them in a pan first for added crispiness.
Cornflakes: The crushed cornflakes add a delightful crunch. If you’re avoiding gluten, you can use crushed rice cereals or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Honey: For sweetness, honey is a star here, but maple syrup could be a nice substitution for a different flavor. Just keep the saucing proportions in mind!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best for that powerful flavor. If you only have garlic powder, you can use it, but fresh is always my go-to!
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch on My Pork Chops?
Getting that double crunch is what makes this dish special! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Make sure to pat the pork chops dry; moisture can make your coating soggy.
- Coat each chop in flour first. This helps the egg stick better, which is key for that crunchy layer!
- When frying, keep the oil hot enough but not smoking. Medium heat works well so the chops cook through without burning.
- Flip the chops gently, and don’t overcrowd the pan. This ensures even cooking and a crispy finish!
Follow these steps, and you’ll have wonderfully crunchy, delicious pork chops!
Easy Double Crunch Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Chopped green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time. Altogether, you should have a delicious meal ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Breading Stations:
Start by setting up three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until they are smooth. In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and crushed cornflakes to create a crunchy coating.
2. Bread the Pork Chops:
Next, pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Take each chop and first dredge it in the seasoned flour. Shake off any extra flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chop thoroughly with the breadcrumb and cornflake mixture, pressing gently to make sure it sticks. Repeat with all the chops!
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded pork chops. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and keep them warm on a plate.
4. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, stir in the honey, soy sauce, and vinegar. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld together.
5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you like a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch mixed with water and cook for another minute until the sauce thickens. Add red pepper flakes if you want a little heat!
6. Coat the Pork Chops in Sauce:
Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon the honey garlic sauce over them. Turn the chops gently to ensure they are evenly coated and allow them to warm through for about 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve:
Transfer the pork chops to a serving platter, drizzle them with any leftover sauce, and garnish with chopped green onions. Enjoy your delicious, crispy Double Crunch Honey Garlic Pork Chops!
Serve them hot with fluffy steamed rice, fresh veggies, or a vibrant salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Double Crunch Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, bone-in pork chops will work, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time slightly. They may take a few extra minutes to cook through compared to boneless chops. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork chops and bread them ahead of time. Just coat them and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, make sure to bring them back to room temperature before frying for even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to keep them crispy, or in the microwave for a quicker option, although they may lose some crunch.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Yes! For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or mix a bit of sriracha into the honey garlic sauce. You can also marinate the pork chops in a spicy marinade before breading and cooking them for extra flavor!
