These balsamic glazed pork chops are juicy and packed with flavor! The sweet and tangy balsamic sauce adds a special touch that makes them extra tasty.
I love making these for dinner because they’re easy and so satisfying. Just grill or pan-sear the chops, drizzle with glaze, and enjoy a meal that feels fancy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for this recipe because the bone adds flavor and moisture. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless pork chops work too, just adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is the star of the dish! It brings that sweet and tangy flavor. For a milder option, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but the taste will be different. Try to find a good quality balsamic for the best results!
Brown Sugar or Honey: Both are sweeteners that balance the acidity of the balsamic. If you’re looking to reduce sugar, maple syrup can be substituted for a different sweet touch.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely aroma and flavor. If you don’t have fresh, dried thyme works in a pinch. Just use half the amount, as dried herbs are stronger in flavor.
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Glaze?
Making a rich, thick glaze requires a few important steps. After searing the pork chops, focus on the balsamic sauce. You want to simmer it until it thickens, which may seem tricky but is straightforward!
- Start by lowering the heat to medium after adding the garlic; cooking it too fast can burn it.
- Stir in the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and thyme. Make sure to mix well so the sugar dissolves completely.
- Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes without stirring too much. You want the liquid to reduce, thickening into a glaze.
- Once it’s syrupy, return the pork chops to the skillet. This allows them to soak up the glaze, making them even tastier!
Taking your time during the simmering will reward you with a delicious glaze that perfectly complements the pork chops. Enjoy your cooking!
Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- Optional garnish: fresh thyme sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful dinner during a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Pork Chops:
Begin by seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt and black pepper. Make sure to coat them well; this will bring out the flavors!
2. Sear the Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want a nice brown crust, and the chops should be nearly cooked through. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Balsamic Glaze:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. Then, pour in the balsamic vinegar and mix in the brown sugar and thyme leaves. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
Allow the balsamic sauce to simmer for about 5-7 minutes. This will help it thicken and turn syrupy. Keep an eye on it as it cooks; you want that perfect glaze!
5. Finish Cooking the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet. Spoon some of the delicious glaze over them, and let them cook for another 2-3 minutes. This lets the pork finish cooking and soak up all that amazing flavor from the glaze.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if you like. Serve the pork chops hot, drizzled with some extra balsamic glaze from the pan. Enjoy your tasty meal!
This recipe yields pork chops with a rich, slightly sweet, and tangy balsamic glaze that beautifully complements the savory meat. A guaranteed hit at your dinner table!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Boneless pork chops are a great alternative. Just keep in mind that they may cook faster, so check for doneness a minute or two earlier than the recipe suggests.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Just note that the flavor will vary slightly, so you might want to add a bit more sugar to balance the acidity.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops in Advance?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours or overnight will deepen the flavor significantly. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly when cooking!
