Olive oil or unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons, for frying
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
Honey: 1/3 cup
Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons (use low sodium if preferred)
Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice: 1 tablespoon, for acidity
Chicken broth or water: 1/4 cup, for deglazing
Optional garnishes: Chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, or sesame seeds
Instructions
Prepare the Pork Chops:
Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Cook the Pork Chops:
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C). Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.
Stir in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice). Cook and stir for a minute to combine the flavors.
Pour in the chicken broth (or water) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
Return the Pork Chops to the Skillet:
Add the cooked pork chops back into the skillet, spooning the honey garlic sauce over them. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring the pork chops are well coated and heated through.
Serve:
Serve the pork chops hot, garnished with chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, or sesame seeds if desired. The honey garlic sauce makes a delicious glaze for the pork chops and can also be served over rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
