These Easy Double Crunch Honey Garlic Pork Chops are a mouthwatering treat! Juicy pork chops are coated in a sweet and tangy honey garlic sauce, then perfectly crispy on the outside.
Honestly, who can resist that crunchy coating? I love serving these with a side of veggies or rice. You’ll feel like a chef in no time, and your taste buds will thank you! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend using boneless pork chops as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, bone-in chops can be used; just increase the cooking time slightly.
Cornflakes or Panko: I love using crushed cornflakes for that ultimate crunch. However, you can easily substitute with panko breadcrumbs, which will also give a great texture. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free cornflakes or breadcrumbs.
Honey: While honey is key for the sauce, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar if that’s what you have on hand. It will still yield a tasty caramelized finish!
Cheddar Cheese: Adding cheese to the coating is optional, but it adds a nice flavor. You could also use Parmesan or leave it out entirely if you want a lighter version.
How Can You Get Perfectly Crispy Pork Chops?
The double crunch comes from the breading technique! Here’s how to nail it:
- Pat the pork chops dry to help the coating stick better.
- Make sure you completely coat the chops in the flour first, then the egg, and finally the cornflake mixture. Don’t rush this step; even coverage is key!
- For that extra crunch, repeat the egg and cornflake step for a double coat. It’s worth taking the extra time.
- Fry the chops in hot oil, ensuring they have enough room to cook without steaming. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through; this keeps them crisp on the outside.
Easy Double Crunch Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Breading:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor and crunch)
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for cooking, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
First, pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel. This helps the breading stick better. Season both sides with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Set up the Breading Station:
In a shallow bowl, combine the flour and garlic powder together – this will be your first coating. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs until they’re well blended. In a third bowl, mix your crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs with the shredded cheddar cheese if you’re using it. This creates a crispy coating!
3. Coat the Pork Chops:
Now it’s time to coat your chops! First, dredge each pork chop in the flour mixture, making sure to shake off any excess. Next, dip the chop into the beaten eggs, and then finally, press it into the cornflake mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated on all sides. For that extra crunch, you can repeat the egg and cornflake step for a double coating.
4. Cook the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the coated pork chops and fry them for about 4-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown and fully cooked through (check that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F / 63°C). Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
5. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Stir in the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and ginger (if you’re using it). Allow this to simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Combine:
Return the cooked pork chops to the skillet, turning them gently to coat in the honey garlic sauce. Heat for another minute or two to warm the chops through and help them soak up all that delicious sauce.
7. Serve:
Plate those beautiful pork chops and drizzle any remaining honey garlic sauce from the skillet on top. Garnish with sliced green onions for that fresh crunch and color.
8. Enjoy:
Dig in! Serve these crispy, tender pork chops with some steamed rice or your favorite vegetables for a delightful meal. You’re going to love that sweet and savory glaze!
This recipe delivers on flavor and texture, creating a delicious dish that you’ll want to make again and again!
FAQ for Easy Double Crunch Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Yes, you can! Just be aware that bone-in pork chops may require a bit longer cooking time—aim for about 6-7 minutes per side to ensure they’re cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you don’t have honey, maple syrup or agave nectar work well as sweet substitutes. They will give a similar sweetness and caramelization to the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, to maintain their crispiness!
Can I Prep This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can bread the pork chops in advance and store them in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to cook, just fry them as directed. This makes dinner prep super easy!
