These Teriyaki Pork Chops are juicy, tasty, and easy to make at home! With a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce, they are sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
I love serving these chops with rice and veggies for a colorful meal! Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds (or thirds). Who can resist that delicious glaze? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are ideal for juiciness. If you prefer, boneless chops can be used instead, but be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out faster.
Soy Sauce: This is the base of the teriyaki flavor. If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
Brown Sugar: It adds sweetness and depth. You can substitute with coconut sugar or honey for a different flavor profile.
Rice Vinegar: It balances the sweetness. Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar can work in a pinch, but the flavor will change slightly.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh is best for a stronger flavor. If you don’t have fresh, feel free to use powdered versions, but reduce the amounts to suit your taste.
How Can I Perfectly Sear My Pork Chops?
Searing creates a delicious crust that locks in the juices. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet. A drop of water should sizzle on contact.
- Pat the pork chops dry before seasoning. This helps them brown better.
- Don’t crowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain high heat.
- Only flip when they release easily from the pan. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly seared pork chops every time, ready for that tasty teriyaki glaze! Enjoy your cooking! 🍽️
Teriyaki Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Teriyaki Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)
- 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
Optional:
- Lettuce leaves or steamed rice for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll spend about 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Begin by seasoning the pork chops generously on both sides with salt and black pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the meat.
2. Make the Teriyaki Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This mixture will serve as a sweet and savory marinade for the chops.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until they are nicely browned but not cooked through.
4. Simmer with Marinade:
Once the chops are seared, pour the teriyaki marinade into the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer. Cook until the pork chops are cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This should take about 8 to 10 minutes. Occasionally, spoon the sauce over the chops while they simmer.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
Remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a plate. Add the cornstarch slurry to the remaining liquid in the skillet. Stir and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
6. Coat the Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, allowing them to soak up the thickened teriyaki sauce. Make sure each chop is well coated.
7. Plate and Serve:
Plate the pork chops, drizzle any leftover sauce over them, and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve with fresh lettuce leaves or steamed rice for a complete meal.
Enjoy your delicious Teriyaki Pork Chops, bursting with flavor and sure to impress your family!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops work well in this recipe. Just be cautious while cooking, as they can dry out more quickly than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can make the teriyaki marinade ahead of time! Prepare it up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good whisk before using it for the best flavor.
What Can I Serve with Teriyaki Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair beautifully with steamed rice or quinoa. You can also serve them alongside stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal!