Introduction
These honey garlic pork chops are a delicious balance of sweet and savory, with a caramelized crust that enhances the juicy pork. The simple honey garlic sauce adds a sticky, flavorful glaze that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice for a more citrusy flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill
- Light the Arteflame grill by placing three oil-soaked paper napkins in the firebox, stacking firewood over them, and lighting. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes, reaching over 1,000°F at the center grate for an intense sear.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Pork Chops
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Sear the pork chops on the center grill grate for about 2-3 minutes per side to create a golden crust, which helps lock in the juices.
Step 3: Move to the Flat Griddle and Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
- Transfer the pork chops to the flat cooktop griddle to finish cooking at a slightly lower heat, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Prepare the honey garlic sauce by combining honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar on a section of the flat griddle. Stir and allow the sauce to heat and thicken, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Coat the Pork Chops
- Brush the sauce over each pork chop, allowing it to caramelize slightly on the griddle. Flip the chops to coat both sides, ensuring they’re evenly glazed and sticky.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Drizzle any extra honey garlic sauce over the chops for added flavor.
Tips
- Sauce consistency: Let the sauce cook until it reaches a syrupy consistency; if it thickens too much, add a splash of water.
- Avoid overcooking: Watch the internal temperature to avoid drying out the pork chops.
- Resting: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after grilling for the best texture.
Conclusion
These honey garlic pork chops are sweet, savory, and irresistibly caramelized. They’re quick to prepare yet packed with flavor, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Variations
- Spicy Honey Garlic: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of heat.
- Orange Honey Garlic: Substitute apple cider vinegar with orange juice for a citrusy twist.
- Ginger Honey Garlic: Add a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger for a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Maple Garlic Glaze: Swap honey with maple syrup for a deeper sweetness.
- Smoky Honey Garlic: Add a dash of smoked paprika to the sauce for a smoky flavor profile.
Pairing Suggestions
These honey garlic pork chops pair well with:
- Roasted or mashed sweet potatoes
- Grilled asparagus or zucchini
- A simple green salad
- A glass of Riesling or Pinot Noir
