These teriyaki pork chops are juicy and packed with flavor! Marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, they make a perfect weeknight dinner that everyone will love.
Honestly, the glaze is so tasty that I sometimes just use it on everything! Serve these chops with rice and veggies for a meal that’s both simple and delicious.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for tenderness and flavor. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops or even chicken thighs, though cooking times will vary.
Soy Sauce: A key flavor! If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option or a gluten-free alternative, use tamari sauce or a reduced-sodium soy sauce.
Mirin: This sweet rice wine adds depth. If you don’t have mirin, a mixture of white wine and a bit of sugar can work, or just use honey, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Sake: For flavor, sake is a nice touch. If you don’t have any, you can substitute with dry white wine or even chicken broth for extra moisture.
Brown Sugar: This adds a hint of sweetness. You could use honey or coconut sugar if you prefer, but it may alter the caramelization process slightly.
How Can I Master the Teriyaki Sauce?
Making a good teriyaki sauce is essential for this recipe. It’s simple but requires attention to detail! Here’s how to get it right:
- Combine all sauce ingredients in a saucepan and stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to simmer. This is when it thickens, so keep an eye on it—around 5-7 minutes should do the trick.
- Don’t forget to taste! If you want it sweeter, add a bit more brown sugar; if you want it saltier, a splash more soy sauce works.
Letting the sauce cool a little before using it on the chops will make it stick better!
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
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For The Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 2 tablespoons sake (or substitute with dry white wine)
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
For Serving:
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Optional: Steamed or roasted asparagus for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 15-20 minutes to cook the pork chops. With just a little time and effort, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce:
Start by making the teriyaki sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Once done, remove it from the heat and set aside.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
While your sauce simmers, season the pork chops generously on both sides with salt and black pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the meat.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn a nice golden brown.
4. Glaze and Cook Through:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Reduce the heat to medium-low and brush the pork chops liberally with the prepared teriyaki sauce. Continue to cook the pork, turning the chops and basting them with sauce occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), which should take another 3-5 minutes.
5. Serve Your Delicious Chops:
Once cooked, carefully transfer the pork chops to a serving platter. Drizzle with any remaining teriyaki sauce from the skillet for extra flavor. Finally, garnish with sliced green onions.
6. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve the teriyaki pork chops hot, accompanied by steamed or roasted asparagus and fluffy rice, if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!
These teriyaki pork chops are a little piece of heaven on a plate, with the perfect mix of sweet and savory flavors that make every bite delightful. Enjoy your cooking!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they are cooked through.
What Can I Substitute for Mirin?
If you don’t have mirin, you can use a combination of dry white wine and a little sugar to mimic the sweetness. Alternatively, a splash of rice vinegar mixed with sugar can work in a pinch, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the teriyaki sauce a day in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stove before using it to glaze the pork chops.
