Crockpot Honey Garlic Pork Chops

Introduction

Crockpot Honey Garlic Pork Chops are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and tender. Pork chops are slow-cooked in a rich sauce made with honey, garlic, and soy sauce, creating a dish that is both comforting and flavorful. As the pork simmers low and slow, it absorbs the delicious sauce, becoming fork-tender and juicy.

This dish is great for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without standing in the kitchen for hours. The crockpot does all the heavy lifting, while you enjoy the aroma filling your home. The flavor is a beautiful balance of sweet honey, bold garlic, and umami-rich soy sauce, making it a favorite among both kids and adults.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s:

• Effortless – prep in minutes, let the crockpot work its magic.
• Family-friendly – the sweet and savory combo is loved by everyone.
• Budget-friendly – pork chops are affordable and readily available.
• Versatile – pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or veggies.
• Restaurant-quality – tastes gourmet with very little effort.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it’s the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. The sauce is so good you’ll want to drizzle it over everything — rice, potatoes, vegetables, or even bread. It’s an easy way to elevate pork chops into a dish that feels special, yet is practical for weeknights.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4–5 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high
• Total Time: 4–5 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~350–380 kcal (without sides)
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American (with Asian-inspired flavors)

Ingredients

• 4–6 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry, optional for thickening)

Optional Garnishes: Chopped parsley, sesame seeds

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Sauce
   • In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic, vinegar, black pepper, and thyme.
2. Layer the Crockpot
   • Place pork chops in the crockpot in a single layer.
3. Add the Sauce
   • Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the pork chops.
4. Cook the Pork Chops
   • Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until pork chops are tender but not falling apart.
5. Optional Thickening
   • If you want a thicker sauce, remove pork chops and whisk in a cornstarch slurry. Let it cook on high for 10–15 minutes until sauce thickens, then return pork chops.
6. Finish and Serve
   • Garnish with chopped parsley or sesame seeds. Serve hot.

How to Serve

• Over steamed rice for a classic pairing.
• With mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes.
• Alongside steamed or roasted vegetables.
• In a bowl with noodles and extra sauce.
• As a meal-prep option with rice and broccoli in lunch containers.

Recipe Tips

• Use boneless pork chops for best results — bone-in works but may take longer.
• Avoid overcooking — check around the 4-hour mark on low to keep pork juicy.
• Add a splash of sriracha or chili flakes if you like it spicy.
• Double the sauce if you want extra for drizzling over sides.

Variations

• Spicy Honey Garlic Pork Chops: Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or sriracha.
• Asian-Inspired Twist: Add fresh ginger and sesame oil to the sauce.
• Apple Honey Garlic Pork Chops: Add sliced apples for a sweet autumn flavor.
• Herb Lover’s Version: Use fresh rosemary or thyme instead of dried.
• Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs: Use the same sauce with pork ribs instead of chops.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked pork chops with sauce for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight, then reheat in microwave, oven, or stovetop with a splash of broth to keep moist.

Special Equipment Needed

• 4–6 quart Crockpot / Slow Cooker
• Mixing bowl & whisk
• Tongs or spatula for serving

FAQ

Q1: Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Yes, but they may take a little longer to cook. Boneless is more convenient.

Q2: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sauce and pork chops in the crockpot the night before. Just refrigerate and start cooking the next day.

Q3: Do I need to sear the pork chops first?
Not required, but searing adds extra flavor and helps lock in juices.

Q4: Can I make this recipe with chicken instead?
Yes! Chicken breasts or thighs work well with the same sauce and method.

Q5: How do I prevent dry pork chops?
Check cooking time carefully — overcooking is the main reason pork chops dry out. Cooking on low heat is preferred.

Conclusion

Crockpot Honey Garlic Pork Chops are a simple yet flavorful dish that proves you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create a restaurant-worthy meal. The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce makes the pork chops tender, juicy, and absolutely irresistible.

Whether you’re looking for a weeknight family dinner, meal prep option, or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers every time. It’s sweet, savory, and perfectly balanced — a must-try crockpot classic you’ll want on repeat.