Description
These Pineapple Ginger Pork Chops are the perfect balance of sweet and savory, featuring juicy, seared pork chops infused with a zesty ginger marinade and topped with caramelized grilled pineapple. Whether pan-seared or oven-finished, this dish brings a tropical twist to your dinner table, making it a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Who is This Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for:
✔️ Food lovers who enjoy sweet and savory flavor combinations
✔️ Home cooks looking for a restaurant-quality meal at home
✔️ Meal preppers wanting a protein-packed dish that stores well
✔️ Pork enthusiasts seeking a new way to enjoy chops
✔️ Dinner hosts looking for an impressive yet easy dish
Why It’s Great
✅ Packed with Flavor – The ginger, honey, and pineapple create a delicious glaze
✅ Juicy & Tender – The optional brine keeps the pork moist and flavorful
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in under an hour
✅ Versatile – Can be pan-seared, oven-baked, or grilled
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into 4 pieces)
For the Brine (Optional, but recommended):
- ¼ cup kosher salt
- 4 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 cup ice
For the Marinade:
- 4 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 ½ tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons room-temperature butter
- 3 tablespoons coconut aminos
- 2 tablespoons reserved pineapple juice
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
For Serving:
- 4 pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
- Chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
Step 1: Brine the Pork Chops (Optional but Recommended)
- In a large bowl, whisk together salt and warm water until dissolved.
- Stir in vinegar, brown sugar, and ice.
- Submerge pork chops in the brine and let sit for 30 minutes.
- Remove chops, rinse under cold water, and pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
- In a small bowl, whisk together ginger, garlic powder, honey, butter, coconut aminos, pineapple juice, and sea salt.
- Set aside 2 tablespoons of marinade for drizzling at the end.
- Rub the remaining marinade all over the pork chops and let them sit for 15 minutes at room temperature.
Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear pork chops for 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Add ½ tablespoon butter on top of each chop.
Step 4: Finish in the Oven
- Transfer the skillet to a preheated 400°F oven.
- Bake for 5-10 minutes, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Remove chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Grill the Pineapple & Serve
- While the pork is resting, grill pineapple rings for 4 minutes per side until lightly charred.
- Drizzle the reserved marinade over the pork chops.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with grilled pineapple.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
✔️ Large mixing bowl (for brining)
✔️ Whisk
✔️ Small bowl (for marinade)
✔️ Large skillet (oven-safe)
✔️ Tongs
✔️ Meat thermometer
✔️ Oven
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked pork chops for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
FAQ
1. Can I use boneless pork chops instead?
Yes! Just adjust the cooking time—boneless chops may cook slightly faster.
2. What can I substitute for coconut aminos?
You can use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari as an alternative.
3. Can I grill the pork chops instead of baking?
Absolutely! Grill over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side, until the internal temp reaches 145°F.
4. Do I have to brine the pork chops?
No, but brining enhances the juiciness and flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step.
Conclusion
These Pineapple Ginger Pork Chops are a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a special gathering, this recipe will impress with its tender texture and tropical taste. Try it today and enjoy a mouthwatering dish with a gourmet feel!
Would you like suggestions for side dishes to pair with this meal?
