Balsamic glazed pork chops are juicy and flavorful! The sweet and tangy glaze gives them a tasty twist that makes dinner exciting and special.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a delicious, easy meal? I like to serve these with some roasted veggies or mashed potatoes. It’s a great way to impress without too much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are my favorite for this recipe. They stay juicy and flavorful. If you prefer, boneless chops also work well. Just adjust cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster.
Balsamic Vinegar: The star of the dish! Look for a good quality balsamic for the best flavor. If you don’t have any, red wine vinegar mixed with a bit of sugar can be a decent substitute.
Brown Sugar or Honey: Both add sweetness to balance the tang of the vinegar. If you’re avoiding sugar, try maple syrup for a different flavor twist that’s still delicious!
Rosemary: Fresh rosemary adds great aroma and flavor. Dried rosemary is fine if you’re in a pinch, but fresh gives a brighter taste. You could also use thyme as an alternative herb.
How Do You Achieve That Perfect Glaze?
Creating the glaze is a key step that really enhances the pork chops. It’s all about simmering the balsamic vinegar to reduce it to a thick, sticky sauce.
- After adding garlic to the pan, immediately pour in the balsamic vinegar and sugar.
- Keep the heat on medium to allow the glaze to simmer gently. Watch it carefully to avoid burning!
- Stir occasionally, and let it gently bubble for about 5-7 minutes until thickened. If it gets too thick, just add a bit of chicken broth or water until you reach the right consistency.
With this process, you’ll have a delicious sauce that will make your pork chops shine! Enjoy the process and the tasty results!
Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water (optional, for thinning the sauce)
- Fresh rosemary sprig, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total: around 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking, including searing the pork and making the glaze. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for company!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This is important for flavor!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Sear them until they are browned and cooked through, which will take about 4-5 minutes on each side. Once done, carefully remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic-Balsamic Glaze:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant but not burned. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and add in the brown sugar (or honey). Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer.
4. Thicken the Glaze:
Allow the mixture to simmer and reduce until it thickens into a glaze-like consistency, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the glaze from burning.
5. Finish the Glaze:
Once thickened, stir in the fresh rosemary. If the glaze is too thick, don’t worry! Just add some chicken broth or water a little at a time until you get your desired consistency.
6. Combine and Warm:
Return the pork chops to the skillet and coat them well in the balsamic glaze. Let them warm together for 1-2 minutes to absorb all that delicious flavor.
7. Serve Up:
Finally, serve the pork chops with the balsamic glaze drizzled over the top. You can garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary if you like. Enjoy your juicy and flavorful Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops with a side of roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a perfect meal!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just keep in mind they may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness a minute or two earlier than the cooking times in the recipe.
What Should I Serve With Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The creamy or starchy sides help balance the tangy glaze perfectly!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the glaze ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cook the pork chops fresh for the best flavor and texture. Just reheat the glaze before serving!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep them moist.
