Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor. The tangy balsamic vinegar adds a delicious twist, making them a special treat for dinner any day.
You can smell the tasty glaze while they cook, and it makes your mouth water! I love serving these with veggies for a yummy meal that feels fancy but is super easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use bone-in for more flavor or boneless for ease. If you prefer, chicken breasts or thighs can be a great substitute – just adjust cooking times accordingly, as they may need less time.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is the star of the dish! If you don’t have it, you can swap it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but the flavor will change slightly. A mix of vinegar and a bit of maple syrup can mimic the taste.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Both add sweetness to the glaze. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar. Adjust to your taste!
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and thyme add a wonderful aroma, but dried herbs can work too. Just use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. If you’re not a fan of these flavors, try parsley or oregano instead.
How Do I Get Perfectly Seared Pork Chops?
Getting a nice sear on your pork chops is key to locking in flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure the pork chops are room temperature before cooking—take them out of the fridge 30 minutes prior.
- Dry the chops well with paper towels. This helps them brown better!
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook them in batches if needed to get that golden crust.
- Let them cook untouched for 4-5 minutes. Only flip them once – this helps create a nice sear.
Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook; use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F. Let them rest before serving for the best flavor!
Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 4-6 cremini mushrooms or sliced mushrooms (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need around 10 minutes for preparation and around 20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special!
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. Then, season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot but not smoking. Add the pork chops to the skillet and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and mostly cooked. After that, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Glaze:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and the mushrooms (if you’re using them). Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the mushrooms start to soften.
4. Add the Balsamic Ingredients:
Now, pour in the balsamic vinegar and add honey or brown sugar. Stir everything together and then add the fresh herbs and red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat. Let this mixture simmer and reduce, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a glaze consistency—around 4-6 minutes.
5. Coating the Pork Chops:
Carefully return the pork chops to the skillet. Spoon the delicious glaze over them and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Make sure to turn the chops over once to coat them well. This allows the pork to finish cooking while soaking up all that flavor!
6. Serve Up & Enjoy:
Once done, remove from the heat. Transfer the pork chops to a serving plate and drizzle any extra glaze and mushrooms on top. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted veggies, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a delightful meal!
Enjoy your tender, juicy pork chops with that rich and tangy balsamic glaze — it’s a sure crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Chicken Instead of Pork Chops?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts or thighs work well as a substitute. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times since chicken cooks faster; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’d like a little more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a few dashes of hot sauce while making the glaze. You can also use spicy mustard mixed into the sauce for an extra kick!
What Should I Serve with Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You could also serve them on a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up that delicious glaze!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
