Honey Glazed Baked Pork Chops

Looking for a mouthwatering pork chop recipe that's both easy to make and full of flavor? Your search ends here! Get ready to savor the delectable delights of these Honey Glazed Baked Pork Chops.

With a perfect balance of sweetness and savory goodness, these tender bone-in pork chops will have your taste buds singing with joy.

Looking for more Pork recipes?

Try my Pork Katsu, Grilled Pork Shoulder Blades Steaks, and my Perfect Grilled Pork Chop!

Why You'll Love These Honey Glazed Baked Pork Chops

• Irresistible Sweet-Savory Harmony: The honey glaze creates a tantalizing blend of sweetness and savory richness that perfectly complements the tender pork chops, making each bite a delightful and balanced flavor experience.

• Quick and Easy Preparation: With simple seasoning, a brief browning step, and a short baking time, this recipe is a breeze to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Tender: The bone-in pork chops retain their juiciness throughout the cooking process, resulting in moist and tender meat that practically melts in your mouth, leaving you with a satisfying and memorable dining experience.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Full list of ingredients with measurements listed below in recipe card. 

• Bone-in Pork Chops - The star of the dish, providing a rich and meaty base for the honey glaze to enhance.Possible Solution: If bone-in pork chops are unavailable, you can use boneless pork chops, but be cautious with the cooking time, as boneless cuts may cook faster.
• Salt and Pepper - Essential for seasoning the pork chops, bringing out their natural flavors.Possible Solution: Customize the seasoning with your favorite herbs and spices to add an extra layer of taste.
• Brown Sugar - Contributes a caramelized sweetness to the glaze, balancing the savory notes of the pork.Possible Solution: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of brown sugar or use a substitute like coconut sugar or maple syrup.
• Honey - Creates a luscious, sticky glaze that coats the pork chops with a delightful honey flavor.Possible Solution: For a vegan option, you can replace honey with agave syrup or maple syrup.
• Cooking Spray - Prevents sticking and ensures the pork chops don't dry out during the browning process.Possible Solution: If you don't have cooking spray, use a small amount of cooking oil, such as vegetable or olive oil, to coat the skillet.

Equipment Needed

• Oven - To bake the honey glazed pork chops to perfection.
• Large Skillet - For browning the seasoned pork chops before baking.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl - To mix and briefly microwave the brown sugar and honey glaze.
• Cooking Spray or Cooking Oil - To coat the skillet for browning the pork chops and prevent sticking.
• 9x13-inch (or similar size) Baking Dish - To transfer the browned pork chops into the oven for baking.
• Measuring Spoons - For accurately measuring the brown sugar and honey.
• Tongs or Spatula - To handle the pork chops while browning and flipping during baking.
• Meat Thermometer - To check the internal temperature of the pork chops and ensure they are fully cooked.

How to Make this Recipe

Full step-by-step instructions listed below in recipe card. 

Sear

To make the delectable honey glazed baked pork chops, begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Season the bone-in pork chops with salt and pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated with the delightful flavors. Next, grab a large skillet and apply cooking spray to prevent sticking. Heat the skillet over medium heat and carefully place the seasoned pork chops inside. Let them cook until they achieve a beautiful brown color on both sides, sizzling with savory goodness.

Sauce

Now, it's time to prepare the sweet and savory glaze that will take these pork chops to the next level. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the brown sugar and honey, blending them into a delectable mixture. Pop the bowl into the microwave for a quick 20-second burst to make the glaze more spreadable.

Bake

After browning the pork chops to perfection, transfer them to a 9x13-inch (or similar size) baking dish. Spoon half of the honey glaze over the chops, ensuring they are coated evenly, and save the rest for later. With a heavenly aroma filling the kitchen, slide the baking dish into the preheated oven, leaving it uncovered to allow the glaze to caramelize over the tender pork chops.

Bake the pork chops for 15 minutes, then take them out and gently flip them over with tongs or a spatula. Now, drizzle the remaining honey glaze over the chops, enhancing the flavors even further. Return the baking dish to the oven and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the pork chops are fully cooked, achieving a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

Serve

Once done, remove the honey glazed baked pork chops from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to settle and the juices to redistribute within the meat. The wait will be worth it. These mouthwatering pork chops will impress your taste buds with their harmonious blend of sweetness and savory richness. Serve them alongside your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes, for a truly satisfying and memorable meal. Enjoy the culinary delight you've created with this simple and flavorful recipe!

Variations

• Citrus Twist: Add a burst of brightness by incorporating fresh citrus juice (lemon, orange, or lime) to the honey glaze mixture. The citrusy tang complements the sweetness and balances the dish.
• Garlic and Herbs: Elevate the flavor profile by adding minced garlic and a mix of your favorite herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or sage, to the seasoning. The aromatic blend will infuse the pork chops with an enticing herbal essence.
• Spicy Kick: For those who crave heat, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the glaze. The gentle spiciness enhances the overall taste without overpowering the dish.
• Apple Cider Glaze: Swap out honey for apple cider or apple juice in the glaze for a fruity and slightly tangy twist. It pairs wonderfully with the pork, offering a delightful apple-infused flavor.
• Asian-inspired Fusion: Introduce Asian flavors by using soy sauce, ginger, and a touch of sesame oil in the glaze. This fusion of sweet and savory elements will take your taste buds on a culinary adventure.
• Maple-Dijon Glaze: Replace honey with maple syrup and blend it with Dijon mustard to create a sophisticated glaze with a harmonious balance of sweetness and tanginess.
• Pineapple-Pepper Glaze: Incorporate pureed pineapple and a dash of black pepper into the glaze for a tropical-inspired flavor explosion that pairs wonderfully with pork.
• Balsamic Reduction: Opt for a balsamic reduction glaze to add depth and complexity to the dish. Simmer balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey until it thickens, then coat the pork chops for a rich and luxurious flavor.
• Herb-Crusted: Instead of using a glaze, coat the pork chops in a mixture of breadcrumbs and your favorite herbs before baking. The crispy herb crust adds a delightful texture and savory taste.
• Apricot-Glazed: Replace honey with apricot preserves or jam for a sweet and fruity twist. The apricot glaze will infuse the pork chops with a delightful burst of apricot flavor.

Wine Pairing

• Pinot Noir: This wine's red fruit flavors (cherry, raspberry) and gentle tannins make it an excellent match for the sweet and savory elements in the honey glaze.
• Merlot: With its soft tannins, plummy flavors, and hints of spice, Merlot harmonizes well with the richness of the pork chops and the sweetness of the glaze.
• Grenache/Garnacha: Known for its red berry fruitiness, Grenache offers a nice contrast to the savory pork chops and accentuates the sweetness in the glaze.
• Zinfandel: If the glaze has a touch of spiciness, a Zinfandel with its berry notes and peppery finish can complement the dish beautifully.
• Syrah/Shiraz: A peppery Syrah or Shiraz complements the sweet glaze and adds a touch of smokiness to the dish.

FAQ's

Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?

Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, but keep in mind that they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.

Is it necessary to brown the pork chops before baking?

Browning the pork chops adds extra flavor and texture to the dish, creating a delicious crust. It's recommended for the best results, but you can skip this step if desired.

Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the honey glaze ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it slightly before spooning it over the pork chops for even distribution.

What's the best way to ensure the pork chops are fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops. They should reach 145°F (63°C) to be considered fully cooked and safe to eat.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the glaze?

Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter glaze, increase the amount of honey and brown sugar. Conversely, for a less sweet glaze, reduce the quantities or try using alternative sweeteners.

Are there any dietary substitutions for the honey?

Yes, for a vegan version, you can replace honey with agave syrup or maple syrup in the glaze. This will still provide a sweet and sticky coating.

What sides pair well with honey glazed pork chops?

A variety of sides complement this dish, such as roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, quinoa salad, or a fresh green salad with vinaigrette.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can store any leftover honey glazed pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

How can I prevent the pork chops from drying out?

To retain moisture, avoid overcooking the pork chops. Baking them at the recommended temperature and monitoring their internal temperature with a thermometer will help keep them juicy.

Can I use different meat cuts for this recipe?

While the recipe is specifically designed for pork chops, you can try similar glazes with other cuts of pork, such as pork tenderloin or pork loin, for a delicious alternative.

Tips

• Choose the Right Pork Chops: Opt for bone-in pork chops that are about ¾" to 1" thick. This size ensures even cooking and helps retain moisture during baking.
• Season Generously: Don't be shy with the salt and pepper! Season the pork chops well on both sides to enhance their natural flavors.
• Preheat Skillet Properly: Before browning the pork chops, make sure the skillet is properly preheated over medium heat. This ensures a nice sear without overcooking.
• Don't Overcook While Browning: Brown the pork chops until they achieve a golden color but avoid cooking them completely. The baking process will finish cooking them.
• Create a Smooth Glaze: When microwaving the honey and brown sugar mixture, stir well to create a smooth glaze that spreads easily over the pork chops.
• Coat Evenly with Glaze: Spoon half the glaze over the pork chops before baking and reserve the rest for later. This way, the chops are evenly coated and get a final glaze for added flavor.
• Use an Uncovered Baking Dish: To caramelize the glaze and avoid steaming the pork chops, bake them in an uncovered dish.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the pork chops while baking to avoid overcooking. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
• Let Them Rest: Allow the baked pork chops to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat tender.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to get creative with additional herbs, spices, or citrus zest to enhance the glaze's taste and customize the recipe to your liking.

Looking for more recipes?

Looking for more recipes like these honey glazed baked pork chops? Try my Pork Katsu, Grilled Pork Shoulder Blades Steaks, and my Perfect Grilled Pork Chop!

Did You Make this Recipe?

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Recipe Card

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