These easy balsamic pork chops are flavorful and packed with delicious garlic and herbs. They get a lovely caramelized glaze from the balsamic vinegar, making them super tasty!
You’ll love how quick these are to make! Just sear, add the sauce, and let them cook. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something special without too much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and juiciness. If you only have boneless chops, they will work too, but be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out faster.
Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient gives a deep, tangy flavor. For a milder taste, you can use red wine vinegar. Just know it won’t be as sweet, so consider adding a bit more honey or brown sugar.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for a fragrant dish! If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works as a substitute, but use less—about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
Herbs: Fresh herbs are always better, but if dried is all you have, just remember that dried herbs are more potent—use about one-third of the amount called for fresh.
Chicken Broth: You can swap for vegetable broth or even just water if you’re looking for a lighter option.
How Do I Get Perfectly Sear My Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops makes a delicious crust that locks in juices. Here’s how to get it right:
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding oil; this helps form that perfect brown crust.
- Don’t crowd the pan! Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each chop gets enough contact with the skillet.
- Avoid flipping them too soon. Wait until you see a nice golden-brown color—about 3-4 minutes per side.
With these tips and adjustments, your Easy Balsamic Pork Chops will turn out great every time. Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
Easy Balsamic Pork Chops with Garlic and Herbs
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
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped)
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- ½ cup low sodium chicken broth or water
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need around 25 minutes to enjoy these tender and flavorful balsamic pork chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is important to help them sear nicely. Next, season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. This adds a ton of flavor!
2. Sear the Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Flip them over and sear the other side for another 3-4 minutes. Once they are nicely browned, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Sauté everything together for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until the mixture is fragrant. Make sure not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the balsamic vinegar and give it a good stir while scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan—this is where the flavor is! If you’re adding honey or brown sugar, toss that in along with the chicken broth, mixing well to combine.
5. Simmer the Chops:
Now, return the seared pork chops to the skillet. Spoon some of the balsamic sauce over the chops for extra flavor. Cover the skillet and let everything simmer on low heat for about 5-7 minutes. You want the pork to be cooked through—make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Rest and Reduce:
Once the pork chops are done, take them out of the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board for a few minutes. While they are resting, increase the heat to medium-high and allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, drizzle the thickened balsamic garlic herb sauce over the pork chops and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy your delicious dinner!
These Easy Balsamic Pork Chops are sure to impress with their robust flavor and simple preparation. Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Balsamic Pork Chops with Garlic and Herbs
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can absolutely use boneless pork chops! Just be cautious with the cooking time, as they’ll cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for about 4-5 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use red wine vinegar for a similar tangy flavor, but it will be less sweet. To mimic the sweetness, consider adding an extra teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to your sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While the pork chops are best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just combine the garlic, herbs, balsamic vinegar, and chicken broth, and store it separately in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply heat the sauce and proceed with searing your pork chops!
