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; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup pomegranate juice; 1 tablespoon honey; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

When it comes to weeknight dinners, I love making Pork Chops with Pomegranate Pan Sauce. This dish effortlessly marries the richness of the pork with the tartness of the pomegranate, creating a sauce that is both vibrant and delicious. The combination of flavors makes an impact on the taste buds, and I enjoy how quick it is to prepare. Plus, seeing the pomegranate seeds glisten on the plate is a feast for the eyes. This one is sure to impress your family or guests without any stress!

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:07:12.202Z

I started making Pork Chops with Pomegranate Pan Sauce on a last-minute dinner night, and I was surprised by how quickly it came together. The key to achieving that perfect sear is to ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the pork. This not only helps lock in the juices but also creates a delightful crust that contrasts beautifully with the sauce.

After adjusting the flavors of the pomegranate sauce, I discovered a touch of honey balances the tanginess and elevates the dish to another level. Each bite is a burst of flavor, and this recipe has become a staple for both cozy nights and entertaining guests!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful sweet-tart flavor from the pomegranate sauce
Juicy pork chops that are quick to cook to perfection
Gorgeous presentation that's perfect for dinner parties

      

Choosing the Right Pork Chops

When selecting pork chops, opt for bone-in varieties for the best flavor and moisture retention during cooking. The bone helps insulate the meat and enhances its juiciness. Look for chops that are about 1-inch thick to ensure a perfect sear without drying out. Purchasing chops with a nice marbling of fat will enhance the overall taste, giving you a juicy bite that complements the tangy pomegranate sauce beautifully.

If you're looking for a leaner option, consider boneless pork loin chops. They can cook faster, so you’ll need to monitor them closely to avoid overcooking. Regardless of the choice, ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F for safe consumption. Allowing the chops to rest after cooking is also essential to let the juices redistribute, keeping them succulent.

Perfecting the Pomegranate Sauce

The key to a vibrant pomegranate pan sauce lies in the quality of the pomegranate juice. If possible, choose 100% pure juice without added sugars or preservatives, as this will enhance the natural tartness and brightness of the sauce. Simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly; it should coat the back of a spoon without being too runny. This way, it clings beautifully to the pork chops, ensuring each bite is full of flavor.

For a gourmet twist, add a splash of red wine to the skillet along with the pomegranate juice. This will introduce deeper flavors and a richer texture. When cooking the sauce, constantly scrape the browned bits from the skillet, known as fond; these little nuggets add an incredible depth to your sauce and connect the crispy bits of pork flavor to the pan sauce.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh and vibrant ingredients to make your delicious pork chops.

For the Pork Chops

4 bone-in pork chops
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pomegranate Pan Sauce

1 cup pomegranate juice
1 tablespoon honey
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds

With these ingredients on hand, you're all set to create an impressive meal!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Pork Chops with Pomegranate Pan Sauce.

Prepare the Pork Chops

Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chops and sear for about 4-5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.

Make the Sauce

Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest. In the same skillet, add pomegranate juice, honey, balsamic vinegar, and rosemary. Scrape up the brown bits and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until it slightly reduces.

Finish the Dish

Stir in the pomegranate seeds into the sauce. Return the pork chops to the skillet, spoon the sauce over them and let simmer for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors.

After following these steps, you will have a beautifully cooked meal ready to serve!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in garlic and herbs for an hour before cooking. This will enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

To create a well-rounded meal, pair these pork chops with sides that complement the sweet-tart notes of the pomegranate sauce. Roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with balsamic glaze or a simple arugula salad with walnuts and feta are excellent choices. Their earthy flavors balance the dish, while still allowing the pork to shine as the main attraction.

For added texture, consider serving the pork chops with a light grain such as quinoa or couscous. You can elevate these grains by cooking them in chicken broth instead of water to infuse them with more savory flavors. Mixing in fresh herbs, like parsley or mint, at the end will also enhance the dish's freshness.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the pomegranate sauce ahead of time to save some cooking time on busy weeknights. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it gently over low heat before drizzling it over the seared pork chops. This not only streamlines task management but allows the flavors to meld even further, creating a richer sauce.

If you have leftovers, store the pork chops and sauce separately to prevent the meat from getting soggy. Properly stored in an airtight container, the pork can last up to three days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F, until warmed through, to maintain the texture of the pork.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless pork chops?

Yes, boneless pork chops will work, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly as they may cook faster.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the pork.

→ Can I make the pomegranate sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge, then quickly warm it up when you're ready to serve.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.