These soy garlic pork chops are tasty and easy to make. Marinated in soy sauce and garlic, they are full of flavor and super juicy!
I love how quickly they cook up on the grill or in a pan. Serve them with rice or veggies, and you’ve got a delicious meal ready in no time! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops give a nice flavor and moisture from the bone. Boneless chops work too! For a leaner option, you could use pork tenderloin, just adjust cooking times since they are thinner.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness. If you need a gluten-free option, tamari is a great substitute that works just as well!
Honey/Brown Sugar: Honey adds a lovely sweetness, but feel free to use brown sugar if you prefer. Maple syrup is another good alternative if you’re looking for something different.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch (1/8 tsp per clove). Just remember it won’t taste quite the same.
Ginger: Fresh ginger gives a nice kick, but ground ginger will also work if you don’t have fresh on hand. Use about 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger for each teaspoon of fresh.
How Do I Get the Perfect Sear on My Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops adds amazing flavor and locks in juices, so it’s important to get this step right!
- Start with a hot pan! Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat before adding oil.
- Make sure the chops are dry; pat them with paper towels to remove excess marinade.
- Avoid crowding the pan; cook in batches if needed. This helps to get that nice golden crust.
- Don’t move the chops around too much in the pan. Letting them sit undisturbed ensures a good sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Remove from heat at 145°F (63°C) for the juiciest chops.
How to Make Delicious Soy Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional for tanginess)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil or canola oil (for frying)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and requires at least 30 minutes for marinating. Cooking takes around 10-15 minutes. In total, you should plan for about 50-60 minutes to enjoy these delicious 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, rice vinegar (if you want some tang), sesame oil, grated ginger (if using), and black pepper. This fragrant marinade is what will give your pork chops that delicious flavor!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place your pork chops in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. For even better flavor, let them soak for 1-2 hours!
3. Heat the Skillet:
When you’re ready to cook, heat a cast iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and let it get hot. You want that pan sizzling when you add the pork chops!
4. Sear the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops out of the marinade, letting the excess drip off (but save that marinade!). Place the chops in the hot pan and sear for about 4-5 minutes per side. You’re looking for a golden-brown color and an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Finish with the Marinade:
Once the pork chops are nicely browned, pour the reserved marinade into the pan. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly and coats the pork chops deliciously. Spoon that yummy sauce over the chops while they cook!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the pork chops from the heat. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a nice crunch and extra flavor. Serve hot alongside steamed rice or your favorite vegetables. Enjoy every bite of your flavorful and juicy Soy Garlic Pork Chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops will work well too! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
You can marinate the pork chops for anywhere from 30 minutes to 24 hours. The longer they marinate, the more flavor they’ll absorb! Just be cautious not to marinate for more than 24 hours as the meat can start to become mushy from the soy sauce.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to use, just mix it again before pouring it over the pork chops for an even flavor distribution.
What Should I Do with Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat to maintain their tenderness. Add a splash of water or broth to help keep them moist while reheating!
