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jelly glazed pork chops
There’s something undeniably satisfying about jelly glazed pork chops—a delicate balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors that make a weeknight dinner feel like a gourmet experience. This easy pork chop recipe is perfect for busy evenings or when you want to impress guests without hours in the kitchen. Combining a luscious jelly glaze with tender, juicy pork chops, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent.
The secret to perfectly glazed pork chops lies in the interplay of flavors and cooking techniques. The glaze, made from apricot or grape jelly, adds sweetness, while mustard and soy sauce contribute depth and umami. Cooking the chops to just the right temperature ensures they remain tender and succulent, creating a dish that’s irresistible to both adults and kids alike.
Ingredients
- Pork Chops: 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Jelly Glaze: ½ cup apricot jelly (or any favorite fruit jelly)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a subtle smoky flavor)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with black pepper and smoked paprika.
- Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine apricot jelly, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir until the jelly melts and the mixture becomes smooth. Remove from heat.
- Sear the Pork Chops: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Apply the Glaze: Reduce heat to medium. Brush the glaze generously on both sides of each pork chop. Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes per side, spooning extra glaze over the chops.
- Check for Doneness: Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remove from skillet and let rest for 3–5 minutes.
- Serve: Plate the pork chops and drizzle with any remaining glaze. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and serve with lemon wedges.
Tips for Perfect Jelly Glazed Pork Chops
- Choose the Right Pork Chop: Bone-in chops retain moisture better, while boneless chops cook faster.
- Don’t Skip Resting: Resting allows juices to redistribute, keeping your pork chops tender.
- Glaze Variations: Mix in a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of chili flakes for extra depth.
- Cooking Method: While skillet cooking is fast, these chops can also be baked at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes with the glaze applied halfway through.
Flavor Variations
- Maple-Glazed Twist: Replace apricot jelly with pure maple syrup for a rich, earthy sweetness.
- Spicy Berry: Use a raspberry or strawberry jelly and add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze.
- Herb Infusion: Add thyme or tarragon to the glaze for a fragrant herbal note.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet and savory pork chops pair beautifully with:
- Roasted baby potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes
- Sautéed green beans or asparagus
- Steamed rice or quinoa for a lighter option
- A fresh garden salad with citrus vinaigrette
Fun Facts & Cultural Context
Glazing meats with fruit-based sauces is a centuries-old technique, often associated with European and American cuisines. Sweet glazes balance the natural richness of pork, making it one of the most beloved comfort foods around the globe. Apricot and apple jellies are popular choices due to their mild sweetness and smooth texture, which caramelizes beautifully on the meat.
Many home cooks underestimate the versatility of jelly in savory dishes. Beyond pork chops, similar glazes can elevate chicken, ham, or even roasted root vegetables. By experimenting with different fruit jellies, herbs, and spices, you can create signature flavors that suit any season or occasion.
Why This Recipe Works
- Quick Prep: Total prep and cook time under 30 minutes.
- Balanced Flavor: Sweet jelly, savory mustard, and aromatic garlic create a complex taste profile.
- Juicy Pork Chops: Searing locks in moisture while the glaze caramelizes, producing tender, flavorful meat.
- Visually Appealing: Glossy glaze and fresh garnishes make this dish Instagram-worthy.
With its simple ingredients, quick cooking time, and mouthwatering flavors, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking for weeknight dinner ideas that don’t compromise on taste. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or meal prepping for the week, jelly glazed pork chops offer a perfect combination of ease and elegance.
Irresistible Jelly Glazed Pork Chops
Juicy pork chops with a sweet and savory jelly glaze, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat pork chops dry and season with black pepper and smoked paprika.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine apricot jelly, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir until smooth.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Brush glaze over both sides of each pork chop. Cook 2–3 minutes per side, spooning extra glaze over chops.
- Check that internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove from skillet and rest 3–5 minutes.
- Plate pork chops, drizzle with remaining glaze, garnish with rosemary and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
For extra flavor, try different fruit jellies or add a pinch of chili flakes to the glaze.
