These Soy Garlic Pork Chops are packed with flavor and super easy to make! Just marinate the chops in a tasty mix of soy sauce and garlic, then cook them until they’re juicy and golden.
You won’t believe how quickly this dish comes together! I love serving it with rice or veggies for a delicious meal. It’s a hit at my dinner table—my family’s always asking for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are fantastic for flavor and juiciness. If you’re in a pinch, boneless chops will work too, just adjust the cooking time since they cook faster.
Soy Sauce: Low sodium soy sauce is a great way to control saltiness. You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos if you want a sweeter, soy-free alternative.
Honey or Brown Sugar: These sweeteners help balance the soy sauce. If you’re vegan, use maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness.
Vinegar: Rice vinegar adds a nice tang. Apple cider vinegar is a good substitute. You could also use balsamic vinegar for a richer flavor.
Sesame Oil: This gives the dish a distinct nutty flavor. If you can’t find it, use a neutral oil like canola or grapeseed oil, but you’ll miss that extra taste!
How Do I Get the Perfect Sear on My Pork Chops?
Searing is key for that caramelized crust! Here are some tips to help you achieve it:
- Preheat your skillet well before adding the oil. A hot pan helps create that golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet—cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding lowers the pan’s temperature and prevents a good sear.
- Let the pork chops cook without moving them for 3-4 minutes. This allows them to develop a nice crust.
- Use a meat thermometer! Pork should reach 145°F (63°C) for safety while remaining juicy.
Following these steps will ensure your pork chops are perfectly seared and delicious! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Soy Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 3 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced thinly for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes to marinate—in total, you’re looking at about 40 to 50 minutes to enjoy your homemade soy garlic pork chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), minced garlic, vinegar, sesame oil, and black pepper until well combined. This will be the flavorful marinade for your pork chops!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chops, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though 1-2 hours is best for maximized flavor.
3. Heat the Skillet:
When you’re ready to cook, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cast iron pans are perfect for this, as they hold heat well and help create a nice crust.
4. Sear the Pork Chops:
Remove the pork chops from the marinade, but don’t toss that marinade just yet! Carefully place the pork chops in the hot skillet, searing them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want to achieve a lovely caramelized crust!
5. Cook with the Marinade:
Once both sides are beautifully browned, reduce the heat to medium. Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and spoon it over the pork chops as it simmers. Cook for another 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reads 145°F (63°C) and the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Rest & Garnish:
After cooking, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes to keep them juicy. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds if desired.
7. Serve:
Serve your soy garlic pork chops hot, ideally alongside steamed rice and fresh veggies for a complete meal!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful Soy Garlic Pork Chops! They’re sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s important to thaw them fully before marinating! Ideally, thaw frozen pork chops in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing.
Can I Marinate These Pork Chops Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating overnight can intensify the flavors even more. Just be mindful not to exceed 24 hours as the acidity in the marinade can start to break down the meat too much.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
What Can I Serve with Soy Garlic Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or stir-fried vegetables. A simple side salad or roasted veggies can also complement the dish nicely!