Have you ever taken a bite of something so juicy, sweet, and smoky that you just had to stop and smile? That’s exactly what happens when you try bourbon glazed pork chops. This dish brings together the rich flavor of pork with the warm sweetness of bourbon, creating a glaze that’s sticky, shiny, and simply irresistible.
If you’ve never made them before, don’t worry — this bourbon glazed pork chops recipe is simple, fun, and full of flavor.
What Are Bourbon Glazed Pork Chops?
Pork chops on their own are tender and delicious, but when you coat them with a glaze made of bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of mustard the magic happens. The bourbon adds depth and warmth, the brown sugar adds sweetness, and the glaze gets slightly caramelized in the pan. It’s sweet, savory, and smoky all at once.
How to Make Bourbon Glazed Pork Chops?
Now let’s get cooking. You’re going to love how easy this is.
Ingredients for Bourbon Glazed Pork Chops
You don’t need a long list for this bourbon glazed pork chops recipe. Here’s what you’ll use:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
For the Bourbon Glaze:
- ½ cup bourbon whiskey
- ¼ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for a touch of tang)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra shine)
Instructions (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Season the Pork Chops
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Then sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika if you want extra flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the pork chops in the pan and let them cook without moving for about 3–4 minutes per side.
You’ll see a golden-brown crust forming — that’s flavor! If the chops are thick, you can lower the heat a bit and cook them an extra minute or two until the inside reaches 145°F (63°C).
Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside on a plate. Don’t clean the pan — we’ll use those browned bits for our glaze.
Step 3: Make the Bourbon Glaze
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Now pour in the bourbon. As soon as it hits the hot pan, it’ll sizzle — that’s normal! Stir and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom. That’s where all the flavor lives.
Add brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, vinegar, and honey. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently. The sauce will bubble and thicken after 5–6 minutes, turning into a smooth, glossy glaze.
Step 4: Glaze the Pork Chops
Return the pork chops to the pan, coating them with the glaze. Spoon the sauce over the top and let them simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
The glaze will stick to the pork, making it look shiny and delicious. Once everything’s thick and sticky, remove the pan from heat.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This keeps them juicy and tender.
Serve them hot, drizzled with the extra bourbon glaze from the pan. They go perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even plain white rice.
Variations of Bourbon Glazed Pork Chops
You can easily change up this bourbon glazed pork chops recipe to suit your taste:
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce for a little kick.
- Smoky Version: Add a few drops of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.
- Sweet and Tangy: Mix in a tablespoon of pineapple juice or orange marmalade.
- Herb Infused: Add fresh thyme or rosemary while simmering the glaze.
Nutrition Information (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 580mg
This bourbon glazed pork chops recipe is all about balance — sweet and savory flavors coming together in harmony. The bourbon glaze is what makes it shine, giving every bite a deep, comforting richness.
It’s also quick, family-friendly, and fits both casual dinners and special occasions. It’s proof that a few simple ingredients can make something truly special.
FAQ Section – Bourbon Glazed Pork Chops Recipe
1. Can I make bourbon glazed pork chops without alcohol?
Yes! If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can use apple juice, chicken broth, or cola instead of bourbon. It still gives a rich, sweet glaze with no alcohol content.
2. What’s the best cut of pork for this recipe?
Both bone-in and boneless pork chops work. Bone-in chops tend to stay juicier, but boneless ones cook faster. Choose whichever you prefer.
3. How do I know when the pork chops are done?
Use a meat thermometer if you can — the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Let them rest for 3 minutes before cutting.
4. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the bourbon glaze a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and warm it up before using it on your pork chops.
5. Can I grill the bourbon glazed pork chops?
Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor that’s amazing. Cook the chops on the grill, and brush the glaze on during the last few minutes so it caramelizes perfectly.
6. What’s the best bourbon to use?
You don’t need an expensive bottle. A mid-shelf bourbon like Maker’s Mark, Jim Beam, or Bulleit works perfectly. The flavor becomes rich and smooth once cooked.
