These crispy honey garlic pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! The sweet honey combined with savory garlic makes every bite a treat. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up for dinner!
You’ll love how the outside gets wonderfully crispy while the inside stays tender. I often pair them with a simple salad or rice—perfect for soaking up all that tasty sauce! 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are great, but bone-in chops add extra flavor. If you’re looking for leaner options, try chicken cutlets or turkey cutlets instead.
Flour: All-purpose flour works well for coating, but you can use whole wheat flour for added nutrition. If you need a gluten-free option, almond flour or gluten-free flour blends are suitable replacements.
Honey: Honey is the star of this dish! If you’re avoiding sugar, maple syrup or agave nectar can work too. Just adjust sweetness to taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor; however, garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch. Use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove you replace.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Crispy Pork Chops?
Getting that crispy golden crust on your pork chops is all about the coating and frying method. First, make sure your pork chops are patted dry; this helps the coating stick better. Also, let them rest after coating to set the flour before frying.
- Use hot oil but avoid overcrowding in the skillet; this ensures even cooking and crispiness.
- Cook over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side, keeping an eye on them so they don’t burn.
- Finally, let them drain on paper towels after frying to keep them crispy.
Happy cooking! Enjoy those delicious crispy honey garlic pork chops!
Crispy Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/3 cup honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a hint of heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
First, pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help them get that nice crispiness. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Create the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, and paprika. This will be your crispy coating. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until smooth—this mixture will help the flour stick to the pork.
3. Coat the Pork Chops:
Dip each pork chop into the egg mixture first, letting the excess drip off. Then, dredge them in the flour mixture, making sure to press lightly so the coating sticks well. Set the coated pork chops aside on a plate while you heat the oil.
4. Fry the Pork Chops:
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. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove the chops and place them on a warm plate.
5. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, turn the heat down to medium and add the butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to let it brown! Next, stir in the honey, soy sauce, and optional red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them to coat evenly. Let them cook together for another minute to blend the flavors. Finally, transfer the pork chops to a serving platter, drizzle with any remaining sauce from the pan, and garnish with sliced green onions.
Serve these delicious chops hot alongside your favorite sides like steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your crispy, sweet, and savory honey garlic pork chops!
FAQ for Crispy Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will add more flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a bit longer to cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I Make This Recipe Without Soy Sauce?
Yes! If you’re looking for a soy sauce substitute, you can try coconut aminos for a similar flavor with less sodium. Alternatively, use a mix of balsamic vinegar and a bit of honey for a different twist.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a little splash of water to keep them moist.
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Pork?
Definitely! Chicken breasts or thighs are great alternatives and work beautifully with this honey garlic sauce. You can also try it with tofu for a vegetarian option, just adjust the cooking time as needed!
