These Easy Double Crunch Honey Garlic Pork Chops are a real treat! They are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a sweet and sticky honey garlic sauce that makes your taste buds dance.
You won’t be able to resist the crunch when you take a bite! I love serving them with a side of veggies for a colorful plate. Trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are my go-to for this recipe. They cook quickly and stay juicy. If needed, you can substitute with bone-in pork chops or even chicken breasts if you prefer poultry!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the pork chops their wonderful crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work, but try mixing in crushed crackers or cornflakes for extra crunch as a substitute.
Honey: Honey is key for the sweet glaze. If you want a sugar-free option, try using agave syrup or maple syrup for similar sweetness. Remember, each will slightly change the flavor!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds amazing flavor! If you’re in a hurry, garlic powder can work as a substitute. Use about 1/2 teaspoon for every clove of garlic.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch on My Pork Chops?
The secret to that double crunch is in the breading process. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by patting the pork chops dry; moisture will prevent them from getting crispy.
- Coat each chop thoroughly in flour, then dip in egg, and finally cover them completely with the panko and cornflakes mix. Press down well to ensure it sticks.
- Fry in preheated oil until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and make them soggy.
Let them rest on a paper towel to catch any excess oil—this will keep them crispy until you’re ready to serve!
Easy Double Crunch Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup finely crushed cornflakes (for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry for thickening)
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat
- Chopped green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus around 10-12 minutes of cooking time. Total time is approximately 25-30 minutes. Perfect for a quick but tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Pork Chops:
First, pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them get nice and crispy. Season both sides with salt and pepper to add flavor.
2. Make the Breading Stations:
Set up three shallow bowls for the breading process. In one bowl, place the flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and water. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and the crushed cornflakes for that double crunch!
3. Bread the Pork Chops:
Now, it’s time to coat the pork chops! Start by dredging each chop in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, making sure it’s well coated. Finally, press the chop firmly into the panko-cornflake mixture until fully coated. Set each breaded chop aside on a plate.
4. Cook the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and cooked through (an internal temperature of 145°F or 63°C). Once cooked, remove the chops and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
5. Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce:
In a small saucepan, combine the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and vinegar. Bring this to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. If you like a little heat, feel free to add some red pepper flakes!
6. Sauce and Serve:
Drizzle or brush the honey garlic sauce generously over the fried pork chops. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh pop of color. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, like steamed rice or veggies.
Enjoy your deliciously crispy and flavorful Easy Double Crunch Honey Garlic Pork Chops!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops?
Yes, but make sure to completely thaw them before cooking! For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat dry before seasoning and breading.
How Can I Make the Sauce Spicier?
If you’d like to add some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes directly to the honey garlic sauce, or use a few dashes of hot sauce. For a different flavor profile, you can also mix in some Sriracha or chili garlic sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While the pork chops are best enjoyed fresh to maintain their crunch, you can prepare the honey garlic sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat it gently before serving. You can also bread the pork chops and store them in the fridge for a few hours before frying.
What Are the Best Sides to Serve with Honey Garlic Pork Chops?
Great sides include steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You could also serve them with mashed potatoes or a baked potato to soak up the delicious sauce!
