These Teriyaki Pork Chops are juicy and sweet, perfect for a weeknight dinner! The tasty teriyaki sauce gives them a special flavor that makes your mouth water.
Honestly, I can never say no to a good teriyaki! I love pairing these chops with rice and steamed veggies for a colorful plate. It feels like a mini feast at home! 🍚🥦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops give you more flavor due to the bone. If you prefer, boneless chops work well too. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook a bit faster.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is my go-to to keep the dish from being overly salty. You could also use tamari for a gluten-free option. Just taste your marinade as you go!
Mirin: Mirin adds a nice sweetness. If you can’t find it, you can mix white wine with a bit of sugar. It won’t be exactly the same, but still tasty!
Sake: Sake gives depth, but if you don’t have any, substitute with dry white wine or even apple juice for a bit of sweetness.
Brown Sugar & Honey: If you’re out of one, you can swap the other. Maple syrup could work too for a unique twist!
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Perfectly Cooked?
The key to mouthwatering pork chops is cooking them properly! To get golden searing while ensuring they’re juicy inside, follow these steps:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels before searing. This helps achieve a nice brown color.
- Heat your skillet well before adding the oil and pork chops. A hot pan helps in getting that nice crust.
- Use a meat thermometer! Pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F—this keeps it juicy and safe to eat.
- Let the chops rest a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite tender.
Use these tips to ensure your Teriyaki Pork Chops are a hit every time! Enjoy your meal! 🐖🍚
Teriyaki Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 1/4 cup sake (or substitute with dry white wine)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for searing)
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook. Remember to marinate your pork chops for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for the best flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Teriyaki Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, sake (or wine), brown sugar, honey, garlic, and ginger. Mix well until the brown sugar dissolves. This flavorful marinade will give your pork chops that delicious teriyaki taste!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag. Pour half of the teriyaki marinade over the chops, making sure they’re well coated. Seal up the dish or bag and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chops marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, letting them sit for up to 4 hours will really enhance the flavor.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Once marinated, take the pork chops out and let any excess marinade drip off. Pat them dry with paper towels for better searing. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are a lovely golden brown.
4. Cook with Reserved Marinade:
After searing, reduce the heat to medium. Pour the reserved teriyaki marinade over the pork chops. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, occasionally spooning the sauce over the chops until they are cooked through (aim for an internal temperature of 145°F) and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Serve the glazed pork chops over a bed of steamed white rice, drizzled with extra sauce from the pan.
6. Garnish:
Finish off your dish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a fresh and colorful touch. Enjoy your deliciously flavorful Teriyaki Pork Chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine, but reduce the cooking time slightly as they cook faster than bone-in chops. Keep an eye on them to ensure they stay juicy!
What Can I Substitute for Mirin?
If you don’t have mirin, you can mix a tablespoon of white sugar with a quarter cup of white wine or rice vinegar. This combo gives a similar sweetness and acidity.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Yes, marinating the pork chops overnight is a great way to enhance the flavor even more! Just make sure to keep them in the fridge during that time.
