These teriyaki pork chops are sweet, savory, and oh-so-tender! With a tasty glaze made from soy sauce, honey, and garlic, they’re a hit at dinner.
Seriously, who can resist that sticky goodness? I love serving them with rice and veggies—clean plate club, here I come! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for flavor and moisture. If you prefer, boneless chops or pork ribeye will work too! Just watch the cooking time as it may be shorter.
Soy Sauce: Low sodium soy sauce is a smart choice to control salt content. If you need a gluten-free option, go for tamari or coconut aminos instead.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness to the teriyaki sauce. Maple syrup or agave syrup can substitute if you want a vegan version!
Mirin: This adds a sweet flavor. If you can’t find it, a mix of rice vinegar and sugar can work well. Use the same amounts: 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar with 1 tablespoon of sugar.
Sake: Sake adds a nice depth but can be substituted with broth or water if you prefer not to use alcohol.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky, but here are some tips to make it easy:
- Make sure to pat the pork chops dry before seasoning; this helps them brown nicely.
- Let the chops rest at room temperature before cooking—this promotes even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- If you want a nice sear, ensure your skillet is hot enough—medium-high heat works best!
By using these tips, you’ll have juicy and flavorful pork chops every time! Enjoy your teriyaki feast!
How to Make Delicious Teriyaki Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
For the Teriyaki Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons mirin (or substitute with additional honey or rice vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons sake (optional; can substitute with water)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or sesame oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate (or up to 2 hours for better flavor). Cooking will take another 10-15 minutes. So, overall, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes including cooking and marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Teriyaki Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, mirin, sake (if using), minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir the mixture well to blend all the ingredients into a tasty marinade. This is what will give your pork chops that delicious teriyaki flavor!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry using paper towels—this helps them sear better. Sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides, then place the chops in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the teriyaki marinade over the chops, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours if you have time!) to let the flavors soak in.
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to cook, take the pork chops out of the marinade, but don’t throw away the marinade! Let the chops sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Heat the vegetable or sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops to the hot skillet and cook them for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and cooked through. You want the internal temperature to reach 145°F (63°C).
4. Prepare the Teriyaki Glaze:
While the chops are cooking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly into a lovely glaze.
5. Glaze the Chops:
In the last minute of cooking, brush the pork chops generously with the teriyaki glaze. This will give them a lovely sticky finish!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chops are cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. This keeps them juicy! Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions, and with extra teriyaki sauce on the side. Enjoy your teriyaki pork chops with steamed rice and your favorite veggies!
Bon Appétit!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can definitely be used! Just adjust the cooking time, as they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Mirin?
No worries! If you can’t find mirin, simply mix 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar with 1 tablespoon of sugar as a substitute. This will still provide that sweet flavor that complements the teriyaki sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the pork chops a day ahead, allowing them to soak up all that delicious flavor. Just keep them sealed in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
What Should I Serve with Teriyaki Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with steamed rice, but you can also serve them alongside stir-fried vegetables or a salad for a fresh twist. Feel free to get creative with your sides!