Delicious Apricot Ginger Glazed Pork Chops: An Easy & Allergy-Friendly Recipe for Elegant Meals

The rich glaze truly elevates these pork chops, with unique flavors that provide a refreshing “not-another-pork-recipe” zip and zest.

Life can be a whirlwind, and some evenings, the goal is simply to get dinner on the table before the hungry masses stage a rebellion. We’ve all been there, scrambling for a quick fix that satisfies without demanding too much time or effort. These are the nights where culinary aesthetics take a backseat to sheer survival.

Then, there are those other evenings – the ones that call for something a little more special. Perhaps you’re hosting company, celebrating a small victory, or simply want to treat yourself and your family to an extra-memorable meal. On such occasions, you need a dish that looks impressive, tastes extraordinary, and yet, doesn’t require a culinary degree or hours slaving away in the kitchen. This Apricot Ginger Glazed Pork Chops recipe is precisely that kind of meal.

It’s my go-to for “fancy without the fuss.” The best part is its deceptive simplicity. You might look at the gorgeous, glistening glaze and assume it’s a complicated endeavor, but in reality, it’s incredibly easy and remarkably quick to prepare. This makes it a true weeknight hero that effortlessly transforms into a show-stopping dinner party centerpiece.

Every single time I prepare this dish, I marvel at its beauty and incredible flavor. My first thought is always, “I *must* make this the next time we have guests over!” But then, a mischievous second thought often creeps in: “Wait, if I make it for company, I’ll have to share.” It’s a testament to just how delicious these pork chops are – so good, you might want to keep them all to yourself!

Why These Apricot Ginger Glazed Pork Chops Are a Must-Try

What sets this recipe apart from your usual weeknight fare? It’s the harmonious blend of sweet apricot preserves, the warm, pungent kick of fresh ginger, and savory garlic, all caramelized into a rich, glossy glaze that clings to perfectly seared pork chops. This isn’t just a sauce; it’s a flavor enhancer that transforms ordinary pork into something truly special.

Unforgettable Flavor Profile: The sweet-tart apricots, spicy ginger, and aromatic garlic create a complex, balanced, and utterly addictive glaze that’s unlike any other.
Surprisingly Simple: Despite its gourmet appearance, this dish comes together quickly with minimal fuss, making it ideal for busy evenings or when you want to impress without stress.
Naturally Allergy-Friendly: This recipe is a dream come true for those with dietary restrictions. It’s naturally gluten-free (GF), dairy-free (DF), egg-free, soy-free, and peanut/nut-free. It’s truly a meal almost everyone can enjoy without worry, provided your specific broth and preserves are compliant.
Visually Stunning: The deep, caramelized glaze gives the pork chops a beautiful sheen, making them incredibly appealing and perfect for a special meal.

The Power of the Perfect Glaze: Apricot & Ginger

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the apricot ginger glaze. Apricots, whether fresh or in preserve form, bring a natural sweetness and a subtle tang that brightens any dish. When reduced with ginger and garlic, they create a sauce that’s both robust and delicate. Ginger adds a necessary warmth and zing, cutting through the richness of the pork and preventing the glaze from being overly sweet. This combination isn’t just flavorful; it’s a culinary experience that excites the palate and leaves a lasting impression.

Choosing the right apricot preserves is key. While many varieties are readily available, sometimes finding pure apricot preserves can be a little challenging. Don’t fret if your local grocery store is out; apricot-pineapple preserves make an excellent substitute, offering a similar fruity sweetness with a touch of tropical flair. Always check labels to ensure they meet any specific dietary needs you may have, especially regarding sugar content or added ingredients.

Apricot Ginger Glazed Pork Chops (GF, DF, Egg Free, Soy Free, Peanut/Nut Free)

Yield:
4

Prep Time:
10 minutes

Cook Time:
15 minutes

Total Time:
25 minutes

The rich glaze really dresses up the pork chop, and the unique flavors give it a not-another-pork recipe zip and zest.

Ingredients

1 and 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon pepper
4 boneless pork chops
olive oil for coating pan
another 1 Tablespoon olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon if jarred)
1 teaspoon ginger powder
1/2 cup chicken broth
2/3 cup apricot preserves* see note

Instructions

Heat a large skillet over medium high heat with olive oil.
While the pan is heating, combine the salt, garlic, onion and pepper. Lightly dip one side of the pork chops in the mixture.
When pan is hot, place the pork, spice side down, in the hot pan. Sprinkle the remaining spice mixture on the top of the pork chops. Cook the pork for 3ish minutes and then flip and cook an additional 3ish minutes (until both sides are nicely browned). Remove the pork from the pan and cover with foil to keep warm.
Reduce the heat and add the additional 1 Tablespoon of olive oil. Add the garlic and ginger. Saute for about 30 seconds while stirring. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Use a spatula to scrape up the delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan and continue to simmer for 1 minute.
Whisk in the preserves. Bring the sauce to a simmer and return the pork to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
Remove from heat and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve over rice or quinoa and spoon the sauce from the pan over each piece of pork–don’t let that stuff go to waste! Use every precious drop.

Notes

*At times, I’ve had a hard time finding apricot preserves in the jam/jelly section of my grocer. When that happens, I’ve found apricot-pineapple preserves work just as well!

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 4
Serving Size: 1

Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 512Total Fat: 26gSaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 17gCholesterol: 103mgSodium: 520mgCarbohydrates: 36gFiber: 0gSugar: 23gProtein: 37g

Tips for Perfect Pork Chops Every Time

Achieving perfectly tender and flavorful pork chops is easier than you think. Here are some pro-tips to ensure your Apricot Ginger Glazed Pork Chops are a resounding success:

Choose Quality Pork: Opt for boneless pork chops that are roughly 1-inch thick. This thickness allows for a good sear while ensuring the interior cooks evenly without drying out. For an extra juicy result, consider brineing your pork chops for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, before cooking.
Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the spice rub! Seasoning both sides of the pork chops ensures maximum flavor penetration. The combination of kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper forms a foundational savory base that perfectly complements the sweet glaze.
Hot Skillet is Key: A screaming hot skillet is crucial for developing a beautiful, golden-brown crust on your pork chops. This sear not only looks appealing but also locks in the juices, contributing to a more tender and moist chop. Ensure your olive oil is shimmering before adding the pork.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the pork chops in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature, steam the pork instead of searing it, and prevent that desirable browned exterior.
Deglaze for Flavor: The browned bits left at the bottom of the pan after searing the pork are packed with flavor, often called “fond.” Don’t let them go to waste! When you add the chicken broth and gently scrape the bottom of the pan with a spatula, you’re deglazing, incorporating all those delicious caramelized flavors into your sauce. This step is a flavor powerhouse.
Don’t Overcook the Pork: Pork chops can dry out quickly if overcooked. For boneless pork chops, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) with a meat thermometer, followed by a 3-5 minute rest. They will continue to cook slightly as they rest, reaching optimal tenderness.
Resting is Essential: After removing the pork chops from the pan, cover them loosely with foil and let them rest for at least 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and succulent chop.

Serving Suggestions to Complete Your Meal

These Apricot Ginger Glazed Pork Chops are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to create a well-rounded and delightful meal:

Grains: As suggested, fluffy rice (white or brown) or quinoa provides a perfect base to soak up every last drop of that incredible glaze. Couscous or even farro would also work wonderfully.
Roasted Vegetables: Complement the vibrant flavors of the pork with simple roasted vegetables. Broccoli, asparagus, green beans, or carrots tossed with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roasted until tender-crisp, are excellent choices.
Sweet Potato Mash: For a comforting and slightly sweet accompaniment, serve with a creamy mashed sweet potato. Its natural sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the apricot glaze.
Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can cut through the richness of the glaze, adding a welcome textural contrast and freshness.
Sautéed Spinach or Kale: Quick and easy sautéed greens with garlic are always a good choice for a healthy and flavorful side.

No matter how you choose to serve them, remember to spoon extra glaze over each pork chop and your chosen side. That precious, flavorful sauce is what truly ties the dish together and elevates every bite!

An Allergy-Friendly Delight for Everyone

One of the most remarkable aspects of these Apricot Ginger Glazed Pork Chops is their inherent allergy-friendly nature. In a world where navigating food allergies and sensitivities can be challenging, finding a delicious and elegant recipe that caters to multiple common dietary restrictions is a true win. This dish is designed to be:

Gluten-Free (GF): Naturally free from wheat and other gluten-containing grains, making it safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Just ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free.
Dairy-Free (DF): Contains no milk products, perfect for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
Egg-Free: No eggs are used in this recipe, expanding its reach to those with egg allergies.
Soy-Free: Free from soy, a common allergen. Again, double-check your chicken broth and any added ingredients in your preserves for hidden soy.
Peanut/Nut-Free: Completely devoid of peanuts and tree nuts, making it a safe option for severe nut allergies.

Always remember to double-check the labels of all your ingredients, especially broths and preserves, to ensure they meet your specific dietary requirements and are free from cross-contamination if allergies are severe.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal that feels gourmet, or a genuinely impressive dish to serve guests that accommodates various dietary needs, these Apricot Ginger Glazed Pork Chops tick all the boxes. They are a testament to the fact that exceptional flavor and elegance don’t have to come with a hefty price tag of time or effort. So, go ahead, try this recipe, and prepare to be amazed!

Adapted from Our Best Bites: Mormon Moms in the Kitchen