🍍 Pineapple Ginger Glazed Pork Chops

Tropical brightness meets savory depth in this quick, irresistible, and elegant weeknight dinner.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Marinade/Glaze

• 1 cup **pineapple juice**
• 2 tablespoons **soy sauce**
• 2 tablespoons **honey** (or brown sugar)
• 1 tablespoon fresh **ginger, grated**
• 2 **garlic cloves, minced**
• ½ teaspoon **crushed red pepper flakes** (optional)

For the Pork Chops & Finish

• 4 **bone-in pork chops** (about 1-inch thick)
• 1 tablespoon **olive oil**
• 1 cup **pineapple chunks** (fresh or canned, drained)
• **Salt and black pepper**, to taste
• Fresh **cilantro or green onions**, chopped (for garnish)

📝 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

   In a bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. **Reserve ¼ cup** of the marinade for later use as a glaze.

2. Marinate the Pork Chops

   Place the pork chops in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the remaining marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Refrigerate for **at least 30 minutes** (up to 6 hours) to allow the flavors to penetrate.

3. Sear the Pork Chops

   Heat **olive oil** in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove pork chops from marinade (discard used marinade). Pat them dry slightly, season with salt and pepper, and **sear for 3–4 minutes per side**, until golden brown.

4. Glaze with Pineapple Mixture

   Lower the heat to medium. Add the **reserved ¼ cup marinade** and the **pineapple chunks** to the skillet. Cook for another **5–7 minutes**, spooning the sauce over the chops until they’re cooked through (**145°F internal temperature**).

5. Caramelize and Finish

   As the sauce reduces, it will naturally thicken into a sticky glaze. Allow the pineapple chunks to **caramelize slightly** for enhanced flavor.

6. Garnish and Serve

   Remove from heat, sprinkle with **cilantro or green onions**, and serve hot with the glossy glaze spooned on top.