These juicy pork chops are coated in a sweet and tangy raspberry glaze that makes dinner feel special. The vibrant color and flavor will brighten up your plate!
I’ve found that this dish is perfect for impressing guests or just treating myself. Plus, the sweet sauce pairs well with rice or veggies. It’s a win-win! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are great for this recipe since they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you don’t have boneless, bone-in chops will also work. Just adjust the cooking time for thickness.
Raspberries: Fresh raspberries add a bright flavor. If they’re not available, try using frozen raspberries or other berries like blueberries. They will give a different taste but will still be delicious!
Raspberry Jam: This gives the glaze sweetness and body. If you need a substitute, any fruit jam like strawberry or blackberry will do the trick. Just keep an eye on the sweetness.
Balsamic Vinegar: This vinegar adds tanginess to balance the sweetness of the glaze. If you’re out, apple cider vinegar can serve as a good replacement. It has a nice fruity acidity that works well.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops just right ensures they’re juicy and tender. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by letting the pork chops sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking; this helps them cook evenly.
- Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot but not smoking. This helps create a nice golden sear.
- Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes. Use a meat thermometer; you’re aiming for an internal temp of 145°F (63°C).
- Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking. It helps keep all those delicious juices inside!
Following these steps will help ensure your pork chops turn out fabulously every time!
How to Make Raspberry Glazed Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup raspberry jam or preserves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus sprigs for garnish)
- 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and seasoning the pork chops, and then about 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This step is important for adding flavor, so don’t be shy!
2. Cook the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are nicely browned and cooked through. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). After cooking, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside while you prepare the glaze.
3. Make the Raspberry Glaze:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the fresh raspberries, raspberry jam, balsamic vinegar, honey, thyme leaves, and water (or chicken broth). Stir everything together to combine.
4. Simmer the Sauce:
Allow the glaze to simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick. The raspberries will break down, and the sauce will thicken into a beautiful, glossy consistency.
5. Glaze the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon the raspberry glaze over them. Let them cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are heated through and well-coated with the sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the glazed pork chops to serving plates. Drizzle any extra glaze from the skillet over the top and garnish with additional fresh raspberries and thyme sprigs. Serve them right away, and enjoy with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice for a complete meal!
Enjoy Your Creation!
These raspberry glazed pork chops are bursting with flavor and will be a hit at the dinner table! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but be sure to thaw them completely beforehand. The best way to thaw is in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can submerge them in cold water while still sealed in a plastic bag for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Raspberry Jam?
If you don’t have raspberry jam on hand, any fruit jam such as strawberry or blackberry can work well. Just be aware that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water or broth to maintain moisture.
What Should I Serve With Raspberry Glazed Pork Chops?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple rice pilaf. A fresh salad can also complement the sweetness of the glaze nicely!