These crispy honey garlic pork chops are a tasty treat! They are sweet, savory, and have a golden crunch that makes each bite fun.
Honestly, who can resist those crispy edges? I love serving them with rice or veggies, and they make any dinner feel special. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are perfect for this recipe, as they cook quickly and stay juicy. You can substitute with bone-in chops, but cooking time may vary. Chicken breasts also work well if you prefer poultry.
Panko Breadcrumbs: They give the pork chops an extra crunch. If you can’t find panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but the texture won’t be as crispy. Some people like to crush cornflakes as a gluten-free alternative!
Honey: This is the star ingredient for sweetness. If you need a substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar will also work well. Just keep in mind the flavor will change a bit.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides great flavor, but jarred minced garlic can be used in a pinch. You might want to reduce the quantity slightly, as jarred garlic tends to be more potent.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Crunch on Pork Chops?
Getting that amazing crispy texture comes from the breading process and frying technique. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Pat the pork chops dry. This helps the seasoning stick and creates a better crust.
- Set up three separate bowls: one for seasoned flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for panko breadcrumbs mixed with spices. This makes breading easier and more effective.
- Press the panko onto the pork chops firmly to help it stick during frying.
- Fry them in a hot skillet with enough oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan, which can cause steaming instead of frying. Fry each side until golden brown.
Following these tips will give you deliciously crispy honey garlic pork chops every time!
How to Make Crispy Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Breading Mixture:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
Garnish:
- 2 scallions, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It includes time for breading the chops and making the unbeatable honey garlic sauce. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
First, take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This is an important step to ensure you get a good sear. Once dry, season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Set Up Breading Stations:
Next, create your breading stations: In one shallow bowl, place the flour. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined. In the third bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to add flavor to your crust.
3. Bread the Pork Chops:
Now it’s time to coat the pork chops! Start by dredging each chop in the flour, making sure to shake off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off. Lastly, coat it completely with the seasoned panko mixture, pressing down to ensure it sticks well.
4. Cook the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot. Carefully add the breaded pork chops to the pan. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C). Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside on a plate.
5. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium in the same pan. Drop in the butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic briefly, about 30 seconds, until it’s fragrant but not browned. Stir in the honey, soy sauce, and vinegar, and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens just a little.
6. Coat the Pork Chops:
Return the cooked pork chops back to the skillet, spooning the delicious sauce over them as they cook for another 1-2 minutes. This helps to infuse the flavor into the meat.
7. Serve:
Transfer the pork chops to a serving plate, drizzling any remaining sauce from the pan on top. Sprinkle with sliced scallions for a burst of freshness and color.
8. Enjoy:
Serve these delicious crispy honey garlic pork chops hot, paired with rice, steamed vegetables, or your favorite sides. Enjoy every bite of this crispy, sweet, and savory dish!
This recipe promises pork chops with a crispy, flavorful crust balanced by a luscious, sticky honey garlic glaze. Enjoy your delicious creation!
FAQ for Crispy Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will add extra flavor, but remember that they may require a bit more cooking time. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Additionally, verify that your soy sauce is gluten-free or opt for tamari as a great alternative.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can add a splash of water to prevent them from drying out.
Can I Freeze the Pork Chops?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked breaded pork chops before frying. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for about 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before frying!
