Honey Garlic Baked Pork Chops

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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Honey Garlic Baked Pork Chops are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With a simple marinade and easy baking process, this dish is a must-try for pork lovers looking for a flavorful twist.

Ingredients for Honey Garlic Baked Pork Chops

Pork chops are the star of the dish, offering a juicy and tender protein base. Opt for bone-in chops to enhance flavor and moisture. Honey adds natural sweetness, balancing the savory elements. Soy sauce provides a rich, umami depth, while olive oil ensures the chops remain moist. Garlic brings a pungent aroma and flavor that pairs beautifully with pork. Black pepper adds a subtle kick, and ground ginger introduces a warm spice. Apple cider vinegar offers a slight tang, cutting through the richness. Lastly, red pepper flakes are optional for those who enjoy a hint of heat.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra flavor, marinate the pork chops for a few hours or overnight in the fridge before baking.
  • Use a meat thermometer for precise cooking – it’s your best friend in the kitchen.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the marinade on the stove for a few minutes to reduce before pouring over the chops.

Serving Suggestions

Honey Garlic Baked Pork Chops pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, such as carrots and Brussels sprouts, for a hearty meal. Alternatively, serve them with creamy mashed potatoes or a light, refreshing salad to balance the rich flavors. A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
What if I don't have apple cider vinegar?
White vinegar or lemon juice can be used as a substitute, though the flavor profile will slightly change.
Is there a way to make it spicier?
Absolutely, just increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.

Honey Garlic Baked Pork Chops Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your pork chops cook evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a small bowl and whisk together the honey, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, black pepper, ground ginger, apple cider vinegar, and, if you're feeling adventurous, the red pepper flakes. This marinade will be your flavor powerhouse.

Next, place your pork chops in a baking dish. I like to use a ceramic dish, as it holds heat well. Pour the sauce over the chops, making sure each piece is well coated. You want every bite to be packed with flavor. Once coated, pop them in the oven.

Bake for 25-30 minutes. The key here is to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer if you have one; it takes the guesswork out and ensures perfect doneness. Once cooked, let the chops rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them moist and tasty.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
  • A perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes.
  • Uses pantry staples you probably already have.
  • No need for complicated cooking techniques.
  • Great for impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, black pepper, ground ginger, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
3. Place the pork chops in a baking dish and pour the sauce over them, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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