Pork Chops with Pomegranate Pan Sauce

Name: Pork Chops with Pomegranate Pan Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in pork chops; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup pomegranate juice; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon honey; 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love creating dishes that not only satisfy my taste buds but also impress my guests. This recipe for Pork Chops with Pomegranate Pan Sauce is one of my favorites, and it's surprisingly easy to make! The luscious combination of savory pork and the sweet-tart pomegranate sauce elevates the dish, making it perfect for casual weeknight dinners or special occasions. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, I can create a meal that feels gourmet and truly indulgent.

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:01:16.030Z

In my kitchen, I cherish cooking with bold flavors, and I've found that the bright, acidic notes of pomegranate perfectly complement rich meats like pork. When I first attempted this dish, I was amazed at how well the pan sauce came together after searing the chops. The key is to deglaze the skillet properly—scraping up those delicious browned bits adds depth to the sauce.

One evening, after a busy day, I decided to impress my friends with this recipe. Their reactions were priceless! The pomegranate sauce not only looks stunning drizzled over the chops but tastes incredible, giving that extra touch of luxury. Now, it’s become a staple for gatherings at my place.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy pork chops infused with sweet-tart pomegranate flavor
Quick and easy, perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions
The vibrant sauce adds a stunning touch to your dinner plate

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of bone-in pork chops is essential for this recipe, as the bone enhances the flavor and helps retain moisture during cooking. Given their thickness, aim for chops that are at least one inch thick to ensure a juicy texture. You can substitute bone-in for boneless if preferred, but be mindful to adjust cooking time by a couple of minutes less to avoid overcooking.

Pomegranate juice is the star of the sauce, lending a sweet-tart essence that elevates the dish. Ensure you’re using 100% pomegranate juice without added sugars or preservatives for the best flavor. If pomegranate juice is unavailable, cranberry juice can be a suitable substitution, though it will yield a slightly different flavor profile.

Cooking Technique Tips

Searing the pork chops on medium-high heat is crucial for developing a golden crust that locks in moisture. Use a cast-iron skillet if available, as it retains heat well and ensures even cooking. Look for a sizzling sound when adding the chops to the pan to know your oil is hot enough. A perfect sear takes 4-5 minutes on each side; you can adjust the heat higher if browning is too slow, but be vigilant to avoid burning.

As you prepare the pomegranate sauce, remember to scrape the fond—the browned bits stuck to the skillet—into the mixture. This adds depth and richness to the sauce. When simmering, keep a close watch on it. You want the sauce to reduce until it’s glossy and slightly thickened, typically around 5 minutes, as it will cling beautifully to the pork chops.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful dish:

Ingredients for Pork Chops

4 bone-in pork chops
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup pomegranate juice
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon honey
1/4 cup pomegranate seeds for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal:

Prep the Pork Chops

Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Sear the Chops

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Pomegranate Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in the pomegranate juice, balsamic vinegar, chicken broth, and honey. Stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and let it reduce for about 5 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Return the pork chops to the skillet and coat them in the sauce. Let them cook together for an additional 2 minutes, then garnish with pomegranate seeds before serving.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain their juices and keeps the meat tender.

Serving Suggestions

For an impressive presentation, serve the pork chops on a bed of mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up that delectable pomegranate sauce. A side of roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, complements the dish beautifully, providing a pop of color and flavor balance.

If you want to elevate this dish for a dinner party, consider garnishing with fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint alongside the pomegranate seeds. This not only enhances visual appeal but also adds a fresh, aromatic element that contrasts the rich sauce.

Storage Tips

Leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain juiciness, reheat them gently in the skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to create steam and prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals to warm through.

If you’re looking to prepare this dish in advance, the pomegranate sauce can be made a day ahead. Simply reheat it in the skillet before drizzling over the reheated pork chops. This flexibility allows for a stress-free experience on the day of your gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless pork chops?

Yes, boneless pork chops work well too, just reduce the cooking time slightly.

→ What can I serve this dish with?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of seasonal vegetables.

→ Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the pan sauce ahead of time and gently reheat it before serving.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Simply store the cooked pork chops and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge.