Elevate your weeknight dinner game with these juicy and flavorful Teriyaki Pork Chops, perfect for make-ahead meal prep (OAMC: Once-A-Month Cooking). This recipe combines tender pork chops with a sweet and savory homemade teriyaki marinade made from soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, garlic, and ground ginger. Whether you're freezing them for later or cooking them fresh, the marinade infuses the pork with bold, mouthwatering flavors. The reserved marinade is simmered with a cornstarch slurry to create a glossy, rich teriyaki sauce that perfectly complements the caramelized pork chops. Serve these golden-brown chops with steamed rice, stir-fried veggies, and a sprinkle of fresh green onions for a simple yet irresistible meal that's equally family-friendly and freezer-friendly! Perfect for meal planners and teriyaki lovers alike, this dish is a must-try.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, minced garlic, ground ginger, and vegetable oil. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved to create the teriyaki marinade.
Place the pork chops in a large resealable plastic freezer bag or container, then pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag tightly, pressing out any air, and massage the marinade into the pork chops.
Label and date the bag if freezing for later use. For OAMC storage, lay the bag flat in the freezer to ensure even freezing and save space. The pork chops can be frozen for up to 3 months.
If cooking immediately, let the pork chops marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
To cook, preheat a large skillet or grill on medium-high heat. Remove the pork chops from the marinade, letting excess marinade drip off. Reserve the marinade for later use.
Cook the pork chops for 4-6 minutes per side (depending on thickness) or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and are golden brown. Remove from heat and let them rest for 3-5 minutes.
While the pork chops are cooking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water into a slurry, then whisk it into the boiling marinade. Cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened into a glossy teriyaki sauce.
Serve the pork chops drizzled with the thickened teriyaki sauce. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired. Pair with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Serving size | 965 grams (965.0g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 1703 |
Total Fat 106.80g | 137% |
Saturated Fat 31.80g | 159% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 17.00g | |
Cholesterol 300mg | 100% |
Sodium 4905mg | 213% |
Total Carbohydrate 69.20g | 25% |
Dietary Fiber 1.90g | 7% |
Total Sugars 53.60g | |
Protein 112.70g | 225% |
Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
Calcium 208mg | 16% |
Iron 6mg | 36% |
Potassium 2227mg | 47% |
Source of Calories