These boneless pork chops drenched in a glossy honey garlic sauce are absolute showstoppers for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. The moment you slice into one of these juicy pork chops, you’ll notice the perfect sear that locks in every savory note. Then comes that delightful swirl of sweet honey, tangy apple cider vinegar, and a hint of soy sauce, creating a rich, balanced sauce that clings to the meat like a flavor blanket. With minimal prep time and just one skillet to clean, this recipe is a total win for busy home cooks who crave comfort food without drowning in culinary chaos.
What makes this dish even more irresistible is how beginner-friendly it is—no fancy equipment required, just a trusty pan and a few simple ingredients from your pantry. In about 10 minutes of hands-on prep and just under 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a gourmet-style meal that clocks in at around 350 calories per serving. Whether you’re pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes, crisp steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad, these chops deliver big on taste and texture. Get ready for a dinner that’s equal parts cozy and elegant, ready to become one of your go-to recipes when you need fast, delicious satisfaction.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN BONELESS PORK CHOPS WITH HONEY GARLIC SAUCE
Before diving into the skillet, let’s take a closer look at the star players in this recipe. Each ingredient brings a distinct flavor and function, working together to transform simple pork chops into a mouthwatering masterpiece.
- Boneless pork chops
Tender cuts of pork that cook evenly and absorb the sauce beautifully. Choosing chops about an inch thick ensures they stay juicy without overcooking.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Basic seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the meat. A generous sprinkle on both sides creates a crisp, savory crust when seared.
- Olive oil
A cooking oil with a mild flavor and high smoke point. It helps achieve that perfect golden-brown sear on the pork chops without burning.
- Garlic
Adds aromatic depth and sharpness when minced and sautéed. It’s the foundation of the sauce’s savory profile.
- Honey
Provides natural sweetness and a glossy sheen. It balances the acidity of vinegar and saltiness of soy sauce for a harmonious taste.
- Apple cider vinegar
Brings a bright, tangy note that cuts through the richness of the pork and honey, adding lively contrast.
- Soy sauce
Contributes umami and a hint of saltiness. Its dark color enriches the sauce, giving it a beautiful caramel hue.
- Chicken broth
Creates a flavorful base for the sauce and prevents it from becoming too thick or cloying. It also helps deglaze the pan for extra flavor.
- Cornstarch mixture
A simple slurry that thickens the sauce to a clingy, spoon-coating consistency. It ensures every inch of pork is covered in luscious sauce.
- Fresh parsley
A bright garnish that adds a pop of color and a touch of herbal freshness. Perfect for finishing and presentation.
HOW TO MAKE BONELESS PORK CHOPS WITH HONEY GARLIC SAUCE
Get ready to transform these simple ingredients into a succulent dinner favorite. The process moves quickly, so gather your tools and let’s jump in.
1. Season the pork chops generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring each chop is evenly coated to build flavor from the inside out.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers and gently ripples across the pan surface.
3. Add the pork chops and sear each side for 4–5 minutes, or until they develop a golden-brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remove the chops from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until the kitchen fills with that irresistible garlic fragrance.
5. Stir in the honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
6. Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld into a cohesive blend of sweet, tangy, and savory notes.
7. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the sauce, whisking continuously. Continue cooking for an additional 2–3 minutes until the sauce has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.
8. Return the pork chops to the skillet, turning them to ensure every piece is drenched in that sticky, delicious sauce.
9. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the chops to warm through and absorb the sauce’s full flavor.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a bright, herbaceous finish (optional but highly recommended).
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BONELESS PORK CHOPS WITH HONEY GARLIC SAUCE
Once your pork chops are hot and saucy, it’s time to elevate the meal with complementary sides and presentation ideas. Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve this dish, guaranteed to impress family and guests alike.
- Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a classic pairing. The smooth texture of Yukon gold potatoes blended with butter and a splash of cream soaks up the honey garlic sauce beautifully.
- Plate with steamed broccoli or green beans for a pop of color and nutrition. The crisp-tender veggies add freshness and balance the sweetness of the sauce.
- Lay over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice to catch every last drop of that luscious sauce. The fragrant rice grains make each bite even more satisfying.
- Accompany with a fresh garden salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and toasted almonds for extra crunch and flavor contrast.
HOW TO STORE BONELESS PORK CHOPS WITH HONEY GARLIC SAUCE
After enjoying this feast, you might have leftovers that deserve just as much care as the first serving. Proper storage ensures your pork chops stay tender and your honey garlic sauce retains its genuine sweetness.
- Refrigeration: Transfer cooled chops and sauce into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days, reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid drying out the meat.
- Freezing: For longer storage, place individual chops and sauce in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: To maintain moisture, reheat covered over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. This restores the silky texture.
- Separate Storage: If you plan to freeze, consider storing the sauce separately from the pork chops in one container and the meat in another. This prevents the chops from becoming overly dense and ensures the sauce’s flavor stays bright.
CONCLUSION
Bringing together tender boneless pork chops and a sticky honey garlic sauce has never been easier or more rewarding. From the first sear to the final garnish of fresh parsley, each step is designed to build layers of sweet, tangy, and savory goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or hosting friends for a casual gathering, this recipe hits all the marks: it’s beginner-friendly, uses just one pan, and comes together in under 30 minutes, with a total of 350 calories per serving. Feel free to swap apple cider vinegar for balsamic if you want a richer flavor or sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. And remember, the internal temperature of each chop should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe, succulent results.
You can print this article and save it for later reference—no need to scour the internet for a tried-and-true one-pan skillet dinner ever again. Below you’ll find a helpful FAQ section to answer any lingering questions (feel free to scroll down!). If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it went: leave a comment, share your tweaks, or ask for guidance if you need help perfecting that irresistible sauce. Your feedback and stories make cooking together such a joy. Happy cooking!
Boneless Pork Chops with Honey Garlic Sauce
Description
Experience the perfect balance of sweet and savory in these succulent boneless pork chops, coated in a luscious honey garlic sauce. Simple yet gourmet!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Season the pork chops with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the pork chops to the skillet and sear each side for 4-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Stir in the honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
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Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes.
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Stir the cornstarch mixture into the sauce to thicken. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce coats the back of a spoon.
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Return the pork chops to the skillet, turning to coat them evenly in the sauce.
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Simmer for an additional 2 minutes to warm the pork chops and allow the sauce to penetrate the meat.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Note
- Serve with steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Ensure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
- Substitute the apple cider vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a richer flavor.
