Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Glazed Pork Chops
This slow cooker honey garlic glazed pork chops recipe delivers tender, juicy meat with a rich and savory-sweet glaze that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates a delicious Asian-inspired coating that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1/2 cup honey
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Place pork chops in the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, black pepper, salt, and dried thyme.
- Pour the mixture over the pork chops, making sure they are well coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or on high for 3 hours, until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry.
- Remove pork chops and set aside. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the cooking liquid.
- Cover and cook on high for 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Return pork chops to the slow cooker and coat with the glaze.
- Serve hot with the sauce spooned over the top.
Practical Tips
Sear for extra flavor: For a deeper, more complex taste, sear the pork chops in a hot skillet for 2 minutes per side before adding them to the slow cooker. This creates a golden crust that enhances the overall dish.
Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry: Thickening the sauce at the end transforms the cooking liquid into a glossy glaze that clings beautifully to the meat. This step makes a significant difference in the final presentation.
Use a meat thermometer: Checking the internal temperature ensures your pork chops are cooked perfectly without becoming dry. Pork is safe at 145 degrees Fahrenheit and remains tender at this temperature.
How to Store
Store leftover pork chops and glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also freeze the dish for up to two months.
Common Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops instead? Yes, boneless pork chops work well in this recipe. Reduce the cooking time slightly, checking for doneness after 4 to 5 hours on low or 2 to 2.5 hours on high, as they cook faster than bone-in chops.
What should I serve with this dish? These glazed pork chops pair wonderfully with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes. The sauce is perfect for spooning over your chosen side dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead? You can prepare the glaze mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply add the pork chops and glaze to the slow cooker and proceed with cooking as directed.