Honey Garlic Pork Chops

Name: Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 4 bone-in pork chops; 1/4 cup honey; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Taste Adventures

I absolutely love making Honey Garlic Pork Chops because they are incredibly quick to prepare yet burst with flavor. The sweet and savory combination of honey and garlic caramelizes beautifully on the pork, creating a delightful glaze. In just a few simple steps and minimal ingredients, I can impress my family with a dish that feels gourmet. These juicy chops are perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-24T18:11:19.408Z

When I first tried Honey Garlic Pork Chops at a friend's dinner party, I was immediately hooked by the sweet aroma wafting from the kitchen. I knew I had to recreate this dish at home. It took some experimentation to get the balance of honey and garlic just right, but the effort paid off. The key is to cook the pork chops on medium-high heat to develop that beautiful glaze without overcooking the meat.

One of my favorite tips for this recipe is to let the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in fork-tender, flavorful chops. I often serve them with steamed vegetables and rice to complete a hearty meal that’s sure to impress anyone at the dinner table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory flavor combination that's irresistible.
Quick prep and cooking time for a weeknight dinner.
Juicy and tender pork chops with a beautiful glaze.

Perfecting the Marinade

The marinade is essential for achieving that mouthwatering flavor in Honey Garlic Pork Chops. Honey not only adds sweetness but also helps create a beautiful glaze when cooked. For the best results, allow the pork chops to marinate for at least 30 minutes; this will infuse the meat with flavor and ensure it remains juicy during cooking. If you're short on time, even a quick 10-minute soak will still enhance the flavor significantly, but I recommend planning ahead whenever possible.

Garlic plays a pivotal role in balancing the sweetness of honey with its pungent, savory notes. Mincing the garlic finely ensures it disperses evenly throughout the marinade, giving every bite a burst of flavor. If you love a more intense garlic flavor, consider adding an extra clove or using roasted garlic for a milder, richer taste. Just be cautious with the amount, as roasted garlic can be quite sweet, affecting the overall balance.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

When it comes to cooking the pork chops, using a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron, can make a significant difference. This type of pan retains heat well, allowing for a nice sear that locks in juices and creates a flavorful crust. Cook the chops over medium-high heat, but make sure to adjust if they begin to brown too quickly. You’re looking for a golden-brown color and firm texture to confirm they’re done, approximately 4-5 minutes on each side.

Brushing the chops with the reserved marinade while cooking helps to develop that caramelized glaze that is signature in this dish. Just be cautious not to let the marinade simmer too long on the heat, as it can burn easily due to the sugar content. Keeping a close eye on the pork and adjusting the heat as needed ensures you achieve that perfect glossy finish without overcooking the meat.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for the perfect Honey Garlic Pork Chops:

Ingredients

4 bone-in pork chops
1/4 cup honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Have all the ingredients ready? Let’s move on to cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make delicious Honey Garlic Pork Chops:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside a tablespoon of the marinade for glazing during cooking.

Marinate the Pork Chops

Place the pork chops in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes, or up to 1 hour for deeper flavor.

Cook the Pork Chops

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated pork chops. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, brushing with the reserved marinade until the chops are cooked through and caramelized.

Rest and Serve

Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve topped with chopped parsley and enjoy!

Your delicious Honey Garlic Pork Chops are ready to be served!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the marinade. This will enhance the sweetness of the honey while adding a tangy edge.

Serving Suggestions

Honey Garlic Pork Chops pair beautifully with a variety of sides, enhancing both their flavor and presentation. Roasted seasonal vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes are excellent choices, providing a hearty complement to the sweet and savory glaze. For a lighter option, consider serving them atop a fresh salad with a citrus vinaigrette, which adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pork.

If you're looking to add a touch of elegance, drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction over the plated pork chops. The acidity of the balsamic cuts through the sweetness and enhances the overall dish, elevating it for special occasions. Garnishing with chopped parsley not only adds a splash of color but also a fresh flavor that brightens every bite.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to save time, these pork chops can be marinated a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to bring them back to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking. Generally, marinated pork can be safely stored for up to 24 hours before cooking, beyond which the texture might start to break down.

Leftover Honey Garlic Pork Chops can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat for the best texture, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent them from drying out. Alternatively, these chops can be frozen, too; just wrap them tightly. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as described, ensuring a juicy meal once again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?

Yes, boneless pork chops can be used and will cook slightly faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ What side dishes pair well with Honey Garlic Pork Chops?

These pork chops pair wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a refreshing salad.

→ Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! The marinade can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.

→ How do I know when the pork chops are done cooking?

The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. A meat thermometer is helpful.