Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Chops
Description
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Chops are a comforting and flavorful meal made with simple pantry ingredients. The pork chops become incredibly tender as they slowly cook in a sticky honey garlic sauce infused with soy sauce and seasonings. The result is a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients For the Pork Chops
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika
For the Honey Garlic Sauce
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (optional for thickening)
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped parsley
- Sesame seeds
- Green onions
Instructions
Step 1: Season Pork Chops
Pat pork chops dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear pork chops for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned.
Transfer to the slow cooker.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, chicken broth, ketchup, and vinegar.
Pour the sauce over the pork chops.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook:
- LOW for 5–6 hours
or - HIGH for 2½–3½ hours
until pork chops are tender.
Step 5: Thicken Sauce (Optional)
If you want a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water and stir into the slow cooker during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Step 6: Serve
Spoon sauce over pork chops and garnish with parsley, sesame seeds, or green onions.
Serve warm.
Notes
- Bone-in pork chops stay juicier during slow cooking.
- Honey naturally caramelizes and deepens flavor.
- Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness.
- The sauce thickens more as it cools slightly.
Tips
- Use thick-cut pork chops for best texture.
- Avoid overcooking lean pork chops to prevent dryness.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
- Serve with rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh garlic gives the strongest flavor.
Servings
- Serves: 4 people
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 760mg
Benefits
High in Protein
Pork chops provide protein that supports muscle health and fullness.
Easy Slow Cooker Meal
Minimal prep with rich flavor payoff.
Sweet & Savory Comfort Food
Balanced flavors make it family-friendly.
Versatile Serving Options
Pairs well with many side dishes.
Great for Meal Prep
Stores and reheats beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze pork chops and sauce for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Warm gently on stovetop or microwave with extra sauce if needed.
Q&A
Can I use chicken instead of pork chops?
Yes, chicken thighs or breasts work very well.
Do I have to sear the pork chops first?
No, but searing adds extra flavor and color.
Can I make this spicy?
Yes, add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
What sides go best with this dish?
Rice, mashed potatoes, noodles, or steamed vegetables.
Why is my sauce thin?
Slow cookers create extra liquid; cornstarch helps thicken it.
Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Yes, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Are boneless or bone-in pork chops better?
Bone-in chops usually stay juicier during slow cooking.