Balsamic glazed pork chops are a tasty treat! Juicy pork is smothered in a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze that makes each bite burst with flavor. A perfect meal for any night!
These chops can make dinner feel special without too much fuss. I love serving them with some veggies; it balances the flavors nicely. Give it a try; your taste buds will thank you! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in or boneless chops work here. I usually prefer bone-in for more flavor. If you’re looking for something leaner, consider using turkey cutlets as a substitute.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is the star of the dish! If you’re out, red wine vinegar mixed with a bit of honey can give a good flavor. However, don’t skip the balsamic if you can help it!
Brown Sugar: This helps balance the acidity of the vinegar. You can swap it with honey or maple syrup for a different but delicious sweetness. Just remember to adjust the quantities since they are sweeter.
Fresh Thyme: Offers a nice herbal note. If fresh thyme isn’t available, use dried thyme, but use half the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do You Get the Pork Chops perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pork chops perfectly is key to this recipe. Here are my tips:
- Start with a good sear. Heat your skillet well before adding the chops. This helps create that yummy crust.
- Cook at medium-high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan. This prevents steaming and ensures browning.
- Use a meat thermometer. You want them to reach 145°F (63°C). Don’t overcook, as they can dry out.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have juicy, flavorful pork chops every time!
Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Optional garnish: fresh thyme sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. In just a short time, you’ll have juicy, flavorful pork chops ready to serve, along with a delightful tangy glaze!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by generously seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will enhance the flavor right from the beginning!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and place them on a plate.
3. Create the Balsamic Glaze:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté it briefly for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Next, mix in the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and thyme. Stir everything together, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 4-6 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes syrupy, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine the Chops with the Glaze:
Return the seared pork chops back to the skillet. Spoon the balsamic glaze over the top of each chop and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the chops to absorb some of the glaze and heat through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the glazed pork chops to serving plates and drizzle any remaining sauce from the pan over them. If you like, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a lovely touch. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your juicy, tangy-sweet balsamic glazed pork chops! They are sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Meat Instead of Pork Chops?
Yes! This balsamic glaze pairs well with chicken thighs or turkey cutlets. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since different meats will require different cooking durations to reach the safe internal temperature.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Thyme?
No worries! You can use dried thyme instead; just use about half the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. If you have other herbs like rosemary or oregano, feel free to experiment with those as well!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to avoid drying out the pork chops.
Can I Make the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the balsamic glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it in a saucepan before using it to coat the pork chops for the best flavor.
