Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Glazed Pork Chops

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 2–2½ lbs)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for searing)

• ½ tsp salt, or to taste

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp dried thyme

For the Honey Garlic Sauce

• ⅓ cup honey

• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce

• ¼ cup chicken broth

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp ketchup

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For Thickening (Optional)

• 1 tbsp cornstarch

• 2 tbsp cold water

For Garnishing

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the pork chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Allow them to rest for 5 minutes so the seasoning adheres.

Step 2: Sear the pork chops (optional)

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step adds extra flavor and improves the appearance of the finished dish. Transfer the pork chops to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Prepare the honey garlic sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, chicken broth, minced garlic, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Add the sauce to the slow cooker

Arrange the pork chops in a single layer in the slow cooker, if possible. Pour the honey garlic sauce evenly over the pork chops, making sure they are coated on both sides.

Step 5: Slow cook the pork chops

Cover with the lid 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 dry out.

Step 6: Thicken the sauce

Once the pork chops are cooked, carefully remove them and keep them covered. Pour the cooking liquid into a small saucepan, if desired. Mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth, then whisk it into the sauce. Simmer for 2–4 minutes until glossy and thickened. Alternatively, stir the slurry into the slow cooker and cook on HIGH until thickened.

Step 7: Glaze the pork chops

Return the pork chops to the sauce and spoon the thickened honey garlic glaze over each piece. Allow them to rest for 3 minutes before serving.

Step 8: Garnish and serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley and sesame seeds over the pork chops, if desired. Serve hot with extra honey garlic sauce drizzled on top.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Pork Chops

• Choose thick pork chops: Chops around 1–1½ inches thick are less likely to dry out.

• Avoid overcooking: Pork chops are lean, so check their internal temperature early.

• Sear for extra flavor: Browning creates a delicious savory crust before slow cooking.

• Balance the sauce: Add a little extra vinegar if you prefer a tangier glaze.

• Use low-sodium soy sauce: This helps prevent the sauce from becoming too salty.

• Make it spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a little hot sauce for a spicy-sweet flavor.

Serving Suggestions