Easy Balsamic Pork Chops With Sweet Glaze

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These easy balsamic pork chops are juicy and packed with flavor! The sweet glaze adds a lovely touch that makes them hard to resist, even for picky eaters.

Trust me, the combination of tangy balsamic and sweet goodness turns a simple dinner into a real treat. I like to serve mine with some veggies for a colorful plate!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are easy to cook and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using bone-in chops or even chicken breasts for a lighter dish.

Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient gives the dish its tangy flavor. For a twist, you can use apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar. Just keep in mind, the taste will vary slightly.

Honey/Brown Sugar: Honey adds a nice sweetness, but brown sugar works just as well. If you need a sugar-free option, consider using agave syrup or a sugar substitute like stevia, adjusting to taste.

Dijon Mustard: While it’s optional, this can add a lovely depth to the glaze. If you don’t have it, yellow mustard or even a hint of soy sauce could work in a pinch.

How Do I Get Perfectly Sear the Pork Chops?

Getting that perfect sear on your pork chops gives them a nice crisp outside while keeping the inside juicy. Follow these steps for success:

  • Make sure your pan is hot before adding the oil.
  • Don’t overcrowd the skillet; work in batches if needed to avoid steaming the chops.
  • Let the pork chops sear undisturbed for 4-5 minutes, flip and repeat.

Using a meat thermometer will help you ensure they reach the perfect internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) without overcooking.

Easy Balsamic Pork Chops With Sweet Glaze

Easy Balsamic Pork Chops With Sweet Glaze

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra depth)
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. In just about 25 minutes, you’ll have delicious, juicy pork chops ready to enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork Chops:

Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear! Once dry, season both sides of the chops generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This adds flavor right from the start.

2. Sear the Pork Chops:

Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Let them sear for about 4-5 minutes on one side until they’re nicely browned. Then flip them over and cook for another 4-5 minutes, until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). When they’re done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.

3. Make the Glaze:

Now, it’s time to make that delicious glaze! Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell that lovely garlic aroma, but be careful not to burn it. Then stir in the balsamic vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), chicken broth (or water), and the Dijon mustard if you’re using it. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty brown bits stuck to the pan—these add great flavor!

4. Simmer the Sauce:

Let the sauce simmer and reduce for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes glaze-like. It should look shiny and coat the back of a spoon nicely.

5. Combine Pork Chops and Glaze:

Return the pork chops to the skillet. Spoon the warm glaze over each chop, letting the flavors blend together. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.

6. Serve:

Remove from the heat and garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if you’d like. Serve immediately and enjoy your juicy, flavorful balsamic pork chops! They go great with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad on the side.

Enjoy your meal!

Easy Balsamic Pork Chops With Sweet Glaze

FAQ for Easy Balsamic Pork Chops With Sweet Glaze

Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?

Yes, you can! Bone-in pork chops will take a bit longer to cook, about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Just make sure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

What If I Don’t Have Balsamic Vinegar?

If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar can be good alternatives. Keep in mind that the flavors will be slightly different, but they’ll still add a nice tangy taste to the glaze!

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if the glaze is too thick.

Can I Prepare the Glaze Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can make the glaze a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a quick reheat on the stove before spooning it over freshly cooked pork chops.

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