These crispy honey garlic pork chops are a dinner dream! Juicy pork is coated in a sweet and sticky honey garlic sauce, creating a tasty glaze that’s hard to resist.
I love how easy they are to make, and they pair perfectly with rice or veggies. Plus, you get that satisfying crunch—who doesn’t love a bit of crispy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor but if you want a leaner option, boneless chops work too. Just remember to adjust cooking time as they cook a bit faster!
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love using panko for its extra crunch. If you don’t have it, regular breadcrumbs are fine, although they might not be quite as crispy.
Honey: This is the star of the sauce! If you’re looking for a lower-calorie alternative, you could use agave syrup or maple syrup for a different flavor twist.
Vinegar: I prefer apple cider vinegar for its slight sweetness, but rice vinegar can also add a nice tang. If you don’t have either, lemon juice can be a good substitute.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crunch on Pork Chops?
The key to achieving that crispy coating is all in the dredging process. It may seem simple, but each step is important for texture.
- Keep the pork chops dry before seasoning. This helps the coating stick better.
- Make sure each chop is well-coated in flour first, then egg, and finally panko. Press the panko firmly to help it adhere.
- Fry in hot oil! Make sure the oil is up to temperature (you can test by dropping a breadcrumb in; it should sizzle). This helps create that golden crunch.
Resting the cooked chops covered with foil will also help keep them warm and juicy without losing that crunch. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Crispy Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 30 minutes from start to finish, including about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings and coating stick better. Generously season both sides of the chops with salt and black pepper for great flavor.
2. Set Up Dredging Stations:
Get three shallow dishes ready: In the first one, mix the flour with garlic powder and onion powder. In the second dish, beat the eggs until they are smooth. The third dish should hold the panko breadcrumbs, which will make your chops super crispy!
3. Dredge the Pork Chops:
Take each pork chop and coat it first in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off. Finally, coat the chop thoroughly with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make sure they stick well.
4. Cook the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the coated pork chops and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the pork chops to a plate and cover lightly with foil to keep warm.
5. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Allow it to melt, then stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell that delightful aroma. Add the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Coat the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon the honey garlic sauce over them, ensuring they are well coated. Cook them for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to soak in.
7. Serve:
Transfer the pork chops to plates. Spoon extra sauce on top and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color. Serve immediately with sides like steamed rice or sautéed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Enjoy your crispy honey garlic pork chops with that perfect balance of crunchy coating and sweet-savory glaze! They’re absolutely irresistible!
Frequently Asked Questions about Crispy Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless pork chops! Just be aware that they will cook slightly faster, so check for doneness around 3-4 minutes per side instead of 4-5 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you don’t have honey on hand, agave syrup or maple syrup can be excellent alternatives. Keep in mind that the flavor will slightly change, but it will still be delicious!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to help keep them moist, and cover with a lid.
How Do I Keep the Coating Crispy?
To maintain the crispy coating, avoid covering the pork chops tightly after cooking. If you must store them, keep them uncovered in the fridge to reduce moisture, and reheat in the oven rather than the microwave for best results.
