These Chinese Pork Chops are tender and tasty, coated in a sweet and tangy sauce. They’re quick to make and pairs perfectly with rice or noodles for a full meal!
Whenever I make these, my house smells amazing! It’s hard to resist grabbing a chop straight from the pan. Who can blame me? 🤗
I love how simple this dish is; just marinate, fry, and you’re ready to go! It’s a go-to meal when I’m short on time but still want something delicious.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops add flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops or even chicken thighs for a different taste. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly.
Soy Sauce: This is crucial for umami flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option or want gluten-free, try tamari or coconut aminos as alternatives.
Rice Vinegar: It gives a mild tang. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work, but they are stronger, so use less.
Honey: Honey is for sweetness. Maple syrup or agave nectar can substitute honey for a vegan option, which also adds a unique flavor.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh is best for these ingredients. If you’re short on time, you can use garlic powder and ground ginger, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
How Do You Get the Perfect Marinated Pork Chops?
Marinating the pork chops is an important step that adds a lot of flavor. Make sure to let them soak in the marinade for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better. It allows the flavors to really penetrate the meat.
- Mix all the marinade ingredients in a bowl until well blended.
- Place pork chops in a bag or dish, pour the marinade over, and seal it. Refrigerate, ensuring the chops are evenly coated.
- When ready to cook, discard the marinade for food safety and grill the chops.
How to Make Chinese Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Broccoli:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for sautéing)
For Garnish:
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and at least 1 hour for marinating the pork chops (you can make it ahead and marinate overnight for the best flavor!). The grilling and cooking time adds another 15-20 minutes. So in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, ginger, and black pepper. This tasty marinade will give your pork chops a wonderful flavor!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, making sure they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour—overnight is even better to really let those flavors sink in!
3. Grill the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Remove the pork chops from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off (remember, discard the leftover marinade!). Grill the pork chops for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re nicely cooked through and you see those beautiful grill marks. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfectly juicy chops!
4. Sauté the Broccoli:
While the pork chops are grilling, heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and sauté them for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are tender-crisp. This makes a great side dish that complements the pork nicely.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Once the pork chops are done and the broccoli is sautéed, it’s time to serve! Place the grilled pork chops on a plate alongside the sautéed broccoli. For a lovely finishing touch, sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top. Enjoy your delicious Chinese pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as boneless chops may cook a bit faster—aim for about 4-6 minutes per side or until they reach the same internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Rice Vinegar?
If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as a substitute. They will add a slightly different flavor, but it will still work well in the marinade—just be sure to use a bit less than the recipe calls for, as their flavors can be a touch stronger!
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Leftover pork chops should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist, or warm them gently in the microwave.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly with the broccoli. Adjust the sautéing time based on the veggies you choose; some may require a bit more or less time to become tender.
