These balsamic glazed pork chops are tender and juicy, with a sweet-tangy sauce that brings a smile to your face. A quick and tasty dinner option for busy weeknights!
The glaze is the real star here—just the right amount of sweetness and zing! I love pairing these chops with some mashed potatoes. Trust me, it’s a match made in heaven!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor, but you can swap them for boneless chops or even chicken if needed. Just adjust the cooking time since boneless will cook faster.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a special tangy sweetness. If you’re out, you can use red wine vinegar mixed with a bit of honey or maple syrup as a replacement.
Brown Sugar: While brown sugar gives a nice depth of flavor, you can substitute it with honey or coconut sugar. Just remember, if using honey, adjust the quantity as it’s sweeter.
Dijon Mustard: This ingredient adds some zing! If you don’t have it, yellow mustard will work in a pinch, or skip it altogether for a milder flavor.
Olive Oil: Use any cooking oil you have on hand, like vegetable or canola oil. Alternatively, try butter for a richer taste!
What’s the Best Way to Make the Pork Chops Juicy?
Getting juicy pork chops is all about cooking them right. Make sure not to overcook them, as they can dry out quickly. Here are some tips:
- Bring the chops to room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for perfectly cooked pork.
- Let the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking. This gives juices time to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional for thinning the glaze)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at roughly 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will enhance their flavor as they cook!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown and nearly cooked through. After cooking, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Next, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds or until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Create the Balsamic Glaze:
Now stir in the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Let this mixture simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the glaze thickens. This should take about 3-5 minutes. If you find the glaze too thick, feel free to add a little chicken broth to thin it out to your liking.
5. Glaze the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon the luscious glaze over them. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, turning the chops to ensure they’re well coated and warmed through. The glaze will become sticky and delicious!
6. Finishing Touches:
Once done, take the skillet off the heat. If you like, garnish the chops with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for a pop of color and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pork chops hot, drizzled generously with the balsamic glaze. Pair them with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delightful meal!
This recipe yields tender pork chops coated in a rich, caramelized balsamic glaze that strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tangy. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s sure to impress anyone at your dining table.
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can absolutely use boneless pork chops! Just be aware that they will cook faster, so keep an eye on them and check for an internal temperature of 145°F.
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use red wine vinegar mixed with a bit of honey or maple syrup to mimic the sweet and tangy flavor. It will still taste great!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on a skillet with a splash of broth to keep them moist.
Can I Make the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the balsamic glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just warm it back up on the stove before drizzling over your cooked pork chops.
