Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Chops

Ingredients

For the pork chops

• 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

For the honey garlic sauce

• ⅓ cup honey

• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce

• 5 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tablespoons ketchup

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• ½ cup chicken broth

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)

For thickening the sauce

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 2 tablespoons cold water

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Season the pork chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, thyme, and onion powder.

Step 2: Sear for extra flavor (optional)

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. This step adds extra flavor and color but is not required.

Step 3: Prepare the honey garlic sauce

In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth until well combined.

Step 4: Arrange in the slow cooker

Place the pork chops in a single layer in the slow cooker when possible. Pour the honey garlic sauce evenly over them. Add the optional butter for a richer flavor.

Step 5: Slow cook until tender

Cover and cook on LOW for approximately 3–4 hours or HIGH for 1½–2½ hours, depending on the thickness of the chops and your slow cooker. Check the internal temperature with a food thermometer; pork chops should reach at least 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest. Avoid overcooking, as lean pork chops can become dry.

Step 6: Thicken the sauce

Carefully transfer the cooked pork chops to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm. Mix cornstarch with cold water to make a smooth slurry. Stir it into the sauce in the slow cooker.

Cover and cook on HIGH for another 10–15 minutes, until the sauce thickens. Alternatively, simmer the sauce in a saucepan for a few minutes.

Step 7: Glaze the pork chops

Return the pork chops to the thickened sauce and spoon it over the top. For a deeper caramelized finish like the picture, briefly place the chops under a hot oven broiler for 2–3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent the honey from burning.

Step 8: Garnish and serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and spoon extra sauce over each chop. Serve immediately with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans.

Tips for the Best Results

• Choose thicker chops: Bone-in chops around 1 inch thick are less likely to dry out than very thin chops.

• Don’t overcook: Begin checking the temperature early because slow cookers vary.

• Get a glossy glaze: Thicken the sauce separately and finish the chops briefly under the broiler.

• Balance the sweetness: Add a little extra apple cider vinegar if you prefer a less sweet sauce.

• Make it ahead: Mix the sauce in advance and refrigerate it until ready to cook.

Nutrition Information

Estimated per serving, assuming one pork chop with sauce. Actual values vary by chop size and ingredients.

Nut Information and Allergens

• Nuts: No nuts are included in the recipe as written. Check packaged ingredient labels for possible cross-contact.

• Soy: Contains soy from soy sauce.

• Gluten: Regular soy sauce may contain wheat; use certified gluten-free tamari or gluten-free soy sauce if needed.

• Dairy: Optional butter contains milk.

• Honey: This recipe contains honey.

• Other allergens: Check the labels of chicken broth, ketchup, and seasonings for additional allergens.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze cooled pork chops with the sauce for up to 2–3 months for best quality.

• Reheating: Warm gently in a covered skillet or microwave with a little extra broth until heated through to 165°F (74°C).

Serving suggestion: Pair these honey garlic pork chops with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted carrots to soak up every bit of the sweet, savory sauce.