Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Chops are a simple and delicious dinner option that your family will love. With tender pork chops coated in a sweet and savory sauce, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. These pork chops are not only easy to make, but they also fill your home with a wonderful aroma while they cook in the slow cooker.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Chops is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First, the slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing you to focus on other tasks or simply relax. Second, the honey-garlic sauce brings wonderful flavors that complement the pork perfectly. Finally, it’s a family-friendly dish that is quick to prepare and healthy, fitting well into any dinner rotation.
How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Chops
To prepare these tasty pork chops, you will need just a few ingredients and follow some easy steps. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 4 thick-cut pork chops
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Directions:
- Arrange the pork chops in the slow cooker and season them with black pepper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, garlic, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar.
- Pour the sauce over the pork chops in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours, checking early, until the pork reaches at least 145 degrees F.
- Transfer the cooked pork chops to a plate.
- Mix the cornstarch and cold water until smooth, then stir the mixture into the cooking liquid.
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 10 to 15 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
- Return the pork chops to the slow cooker and spoon the honey garlic sauce over them before serving.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Chops
These flavorful pork chops are great served over a bed of rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside steamed vegetables. The thick honey garlic sauce will add incredible taste to whatever you choose. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color and extra flavor.
How to Store Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Chops
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to keep the sauce with the pork chops to maintain flavor and moisture. You can also freeze leftover pork chops for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Chops
- Use thick-cut pork chops for the best texture and flavor. Thin cuts may dry out during cooking.
- Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli to the slow cooker to make it a complete meal.
- Adjust the amount of honey or soy sauce according to your taste preference. If you like it sweeter, add more honey; if you prefer it saltier, a bit more soy sauce works well.
Variation
For a spicy kick, consider adding a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce. This will give the dish a nice heat that balances well with the sweetness of the honey.
FAQs
Can I use other meats instead of pork chops?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or boneless chicken breasts in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as chicken may cook faster than pork.
Can I cook this dish on high instead of low?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can cook on HIGH for about 2 to 3 hours. Just ensure that the meat reaches the safe cooking temperature.
Is it safe to leave the slow cooker on while I’m away?
Yes, slow cookers are designed for safe unattended cooking. Just make sure to follow the cooking times and be careful not to leave it on too long, as overcooking can make the meat dry.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Ingredients
Method
- Arrange the pork chops in the slow cooker and season them with black pepper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, garlic, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar.
- Pour the sauce over the pork chops in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours, until the pork reaches at least 145 degrees F.
- Transfer the cooked pork chops to a plate.
- Mix the cornstarch and cold water until smooth, then stir the mixture into the cooking liquid.
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 10 to 15 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
- Return the pork chops to the slow cooker and spoon the honey garlic sauce over them before serving.
