These Hawaiian Pork Chops are a fun twist on a classic dish! Juicy pork chops are grilled and topped with a yummy mix of pineapple, soy sauce, and a hint of ginger, bringing sunny vibes to your table.
I love how sweet and tangy the pineapple makes the chops taste! Pair these with some rice, and you’ll feel like you’re on a mini vacation right in your kitchen! 🌴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for this recipe as they stay juicy and full of flavor. If you prefer, boneless chops can work too, but watch the cooking time closely to avoid drying them out.
Pineapple Chunks: Canned pineapple is convenient, but fresh pineapple is even better for flavor. If you can’t find either, use peaches or mangoes for a unique twist.
Barbecue Sauce: Feel free to use your favorite store-bought barbecue sauce, or make your own for a personal touch. If you’re looking for less sweetness, opt for a vinegar-based sauce.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a fresh zing, but ground ginger works as well. If you find ginger too strong, reduce the amount or omit it altogether.
Rice: While white rice is traditional, you can use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier alternative. Cauliflower rice is also an excellent low-carb option!
How Do I Make Sure the Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
Getting perfectly cooked pork chops requires a bit of attention. Start by searing them well to lock in moisture and flavor. Here’s how:
- Season pork chops well with salt and pepper for a great flavor base.
- Heat your skillet before adding the chops; this prevents sticking and ensures a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary, as too many chops at once can steam them rather than sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Pork is safe to eat at 145°F (63°C), and letting it rest will keep it juicy.
How to Make Hawaiian Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce and Vegetables:
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice, drained (reserve juice)
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ginger (fresh or ground)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. Altogether, you can have your Hawaiian Pork Chops ready in just about 35 minutes. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. This adds a lovely flavor to your meat. Set them aside while you get the pan ready.
2. Cooking the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully add the seasoned pork chops to the pan and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and cooked all the way through. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Using the same skillet, add the diced green bell pepper and onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they get nice and soft. This will build a flavorful base for your sauce.
4. Creating the Sauce:
Now, pour in the reserved pineapple juice, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic powder into the skillet. Give it a good stir to combine everything. The fragrant mix will make your kitchen smell wonderful!
5. Combining Everything:
Return the seared pork chops to the skillet and then add the pineapple chunks. Let everything simmer together for about 5-7 minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken and all those delicious flavors to blend beautifully.
6. Serving Up:
Grab your cooked white rice and spoon some onto each plate. Place a pork chop on top of the rice and ladle the sauce and pineapple mixture over. It’s a wonderful tropical treat on a plate!
7. Garnishing:
If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh cilantro or chopped green onions over the top for an extra touch. Now your Hawaiian Pork Chops are ready to enjoy!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Absolutely! You can use boneless pork chops; just reduce the cooking time slightly, as they’ll cook faster. Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
What Can I Substitute for Pineapple Chunks?
If you don’t have pineapple chunks, mango or peach chunks would work as a great alternative for a similar sweet flavor. You could also use a mix of frozen fruit if fresh isn’t available, just thaw them beforehand.
How to Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or more barbecue sauce to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pork chops and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate them separately. When ready to serve, just reheat the pork chops and sauce in a skillet and serve over freshly cooked rice for best results.
