Balsamic glazed pork chops are juicy and full of flavor. The tangy balsamic vinegar mixed with a little sweetness makes these chops irresistible. Perfect for a family dinner!
Cooking these chops gives your kitchen a wonderful aroma. I love to serve them with simple veggies or mashed potatoes. It’s an easy way to impress dinner guests without stressing out!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Choose bone-in for extra flavor, or boneless for ease. If you can’t find pork, boneless chicken thighs make a great swap, just adjust the cooking time since they might cook faster.
Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic is the star here. For a milder flavor, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but I find balsamic really elevates the dish’s taste.
Brown Sugar or Honey: This adds sweetness to balance the tang. If you’re looking for healthier options, maple syrup or coconut sugar can be good substitutes.
Thyme: Fresh thyme is the best, but if you only have dried, remember it’s more concentrated, so use less. About 1/3 of the amount will work well!
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky, but here are my tips for juicy and tender results:
- Let pork chops sit at room temperature for a bit before cooking for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed to maintain the skillet’s heat.
- Use a thermometer. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for that juicy texture. Let them rest a few minutes afterward to lock in moisture.
By following these simple tips, your pork chops will turn out delicious every time! Enjoy cooking!
Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation and 15 minutes of cooking for a total of around 25 minutes. In no time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Instructions:
1. Prep the Pork Chops:
First, take your pork chops and pat them dry using paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a nice sear. Once they’re dry, sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides generously.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the pork chops. Let them sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want them to have a golden-brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once done, take them out of the skillet and place them on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
Now, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and stir for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be sure to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the pan from the pork. This adds delicious flavor to your sauce!
4. Add Balsamic Vinegar Mixture:
Next, pour in the balsamic vinegar and add brown sugar (or honey). If you like, add Dijon mustard for a little extra flavor. Then, pour in the chicken broth or water and thyme leaves. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
5. Coat the Chops:
Return the seared pork chops back into the skillet, rolling them in the balsamic glaze to coat them evenly. Let them cook together for another 1-2 minutes so they can warm up and soak in some flavor.
6. Serve:
Transfer the pork chops to a serving plate and pour some of the thickened balsamic sauce over the top. If you like, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a nice touch. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your tender, flavorful balsamic glazed pork chops with a shiny, sweet, and tangy sauce!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs or even turkey cutlets can be great substitutes for pork chops. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook faster than pork.
How Can I Thicken the Glaze More?
If you want a thicker glaze, you can mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce while it’s simmering, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until it thickens up nicely.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pork chops and make the glaze ahead of time. Store both in the refrigerator separately for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, just warm them up together in the skillet until heated through.
What Should I Serve With Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. You could also serve it over rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious glaze!
