Irresistibly Juicy Pineapple Pork Chops Ready in 20 Minutes

Name: Irresistibly Juicy Pineapple Pork Chops Ready in 20 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless Pork Chops (trimmed); 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (fine grain); 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper (freshly cracked); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for searing); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (or margarine); 2 cloves Garlic Cloves (peeled, gently crushed); 1 small Onion (sliced into thin half-moons); 1 cup Pineapple Juice (unsweetened preferred); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (gluten-free substitute option available); 1 cup Fresh Pineapple Chunks (bite-sized); 1 tablespoon Honey (to taste); 2 tablespoons Fresh Cilantro (finely chopped); 2 tablespoons Green Onions (thinly sliced, optional); 2 cups Cooked Rice or Quinoa (for serving)

Published: February 4, 2026

by Clare

Why are Pineapple Pork Chops a must-try?

Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, ready to serve in just 20 minutes with minimal prep.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet pineapple and savory garlic creates an irresistible blend that appeals to every palate.
One-Pan Wonder: Less clean-up means more time to enjoy your delicious meal – who doesn’t love that?
Versatile & Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients or adjust the sweetness, making it your own.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family dinner or entertaining friends, these pork chops will have everyone raving!
Serve with Style: Pair with fluffy rice or quinoa and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a gourmet touch.

Pineapple Pork Chops Ingredients

• A delightful mix of flavors that elevate your meal.

For the Pork Chops

Boneless Pork Chops – The main protein; trim for even cooking.
Sea Salt – Enhances flavor; fine grain is best for seasoning control.
Ground Black Pepper – Adds depth; freshly cracked offers optimal flavor.
Garlic Powder – Introduces a robust savory base to the pork.
Olive Oil – Essential for searing; adds richness and aids browning.

For the Sauce

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; feel free to substitute with margarine if desired.
Garlic Cloves (peeled, gently crushed) – Provides aromatic freshness and enhances flavor.
Onion (sliced into thin half-moons) – Brings sweetness and depth when sautéed.
Pineapple Juice – Serves as the sauce base; opt for unsweetened to control sweetness.
Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce; arrowroot powder is a great gluten-free substitute.
Fresh Pineapple Chunks (bite-sized) – Adds freshness and a delightful sweet flavor contrast.

For Finishing Touches

Honey – Balances the sauce’s flavors; adjust quantity based on your sweetness preference.
Fresh Cilantro (finely chopped) – A burst of flavor and color for garnishing.
Green Onions (thinly sliced) – Optional for added crunch and flavor.
Cooked Rice or Quinoa – Perfect serving base to soak up that delicious sauce.

Now, with these vibrant ingredients ready to go, you’re set to create an unforgettable Pineapple Pork Chops dish that your family will adore!

How to Make Pineapple Pork Chops

Season the pork chops on both sides with sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This simple seasoning provides a flavorful base, enhancing the deliciousness of the dish.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onion and crushed garlic; sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant and softened. These aromatic ingredients will build a wonderful foundation for your sauce.
Sear the Pork: Add seasoned pork chops to the skillet. Sear one side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook the other side while moving the pork to one side of the skillet, ensuring an even cook and that delectable crust.
Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice and cornstarch until smooth. Pour the mixture into the skillet with butter, stirring constantly until it bubbles and thickens. This luscious sauce brings the dish to life!
Coat and Cook: Gently fold in fresh pineapple chunks to the sauce, spooning it over the pork chops to coat. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (about 3-5 minutes) for juicy perfection.
Finish Sauce: Reduce heat to medium, stir in honey, and blend well. Remove the skillet from heat and let the pork rest for 5 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions for a burst of color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Pineapple Pork Chops are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can season the pork chops up to 24 hours in advance, simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep them fresh and flavorful. As for the sauce, prepare the pineapple juice and cornstarch mixture and refrigerate for up to 3 days; just give it a good stir before using to ensure the cornstarch is incorporated properly. When you’re ready to serve, simply sear the pork chops, pour in your prepped sauce, and cook until tender. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort and maximum taste!

Storage Tips for Pineapple Pork Chops

Fridge: Store any leftover pineapple pork chops in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow the dish to cool before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your pineapple pork chops in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. To maintain the best quality, remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of pineapple juice to prevent drying out.

Leftover Tips: Add leftover pork chops to salads or stir-fries for a quick, flavorful meal, turning your pineapple pork chops into a whole new dish!

What to Serve with Pineapple Pork Chops?

Elevate your dinner experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement the sweet and savory notes of your pork chops.

Fluffy White Rice: A classic choice that soaks up the irresistible sauce, making every bite a little piece of heaven.
Steamed Broccoli: Offers a vibrant, crunchy contrast that adds a pop of color and healthy green goodness to your plate.
Quinoa: This nutty grain adds a protein punch and pairs beautifully with the sweet glaze, creating a satisfying base.
Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery loaf makes for perfect saucy sopping, bringing a comforting touch to your meal.
Tropical Fruit Salad: Bright and refreshing, the contrasting flavors of juicy melons and tangy citrus enhance the dish’s tropical feel.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works wonders to balance the sweet and savory notes of the chops.
Coconut Rice: Infused with a hint of sweetness, coconut rice harmonizes beautifully with the pineapple, creating a deliciously cohesive meal.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and creamy texture complement the savory flavor of the pork chops, rounding out the dish perfectly.
Cilantro Lime Slaw: This fresh side adds a zesty crunch, enhancing your tropical journey with every bite.

Each of these pairings brings something special to the table, ensuring your Pineapple Pork Chops shine in full glory at dinner time!

Pineapple Pork Chops Variations

Feel free to get creative and adjust this recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Bone-In Chops: Use bone-in pork chops for a richer, deeper flavor and added juiciness.
Maple Syrup: Swap out honey for maple syrup to introduce a different, delightful sweetness profile.
Coconut Sugar: Try using coconut sugar instead of honey for a more caramel-like flavor and a lower glycemic index.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Asian Infusion: Incorporate soy sauce and ginger into the sauce for a delicious Asian-inspired flavor twist.
Tropical Boost: Mix in diced bell peppers and snap peas to the sauté for added color, crunch, and nutrition.
Herbaceous Touch: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or mint in place of cilantro for a refreshing twist.
Pineapple Salsa: Top with a zesty pineapple salsa; combine fresh pineapple, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro for extra brightness.

Expert Tips for Pineapple Pork Chops

Fresh Pineapple Preference: Use fresh pineapple chunks for the best flavor; canned versions can alter the dish’s sweet-savory balance.
Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on cooking time; use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness at 145°F to ensure juicy pineapple pork chops.
Quick Marinade Time: If opting to marinate, limit it to 30 minutes to 2 hours maximum, preventing pork from becoming mushy due to pineapple’s enzymes.
Sauce Consistency Check: Ensure the sauce thickens properly; if it’s too thin, mix a bit more cornstarch with cold water and whisk it in while cooking.
Customize Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the honey amount in the sauce based on your preference to achieve your desired taste balance.

Pineapple Pork Chops Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe pineapple for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing fresh pineapple, look for one that has a sweet fragrance and a slightly golden color on the outside. The leaves should be green and healthy, rather than brown. You can also give it a gentle squeeze; it should yield slightly without feeling mushy. Avoid any with brown spots or a fermented smell, which may indicate overripeness.

How should I store leftover Pineapple Pork Chops?
Very! You can store any leftover pineapple pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing, as this helps maintain freshness. If you don’t plan to eat them within that timeframe, freezing is a great option!

Can I freeze Pineapple Pork Chops? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your pineapple pork chops, first allow them to cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture.

What should I do if my pork chops are overcooked?
Very! If your pork chops turn out tough from overcooking, there’s still hope! You can slice them thinly and toss them in a bit of the sauce to help moisten them up. Another option is to create a shredded pork dish by mixing them with your favorite BBQ sauce, then serving in tacos or on a sandwich. It’ll be a delicious second chance!

Are pineapple pork chops safe for pet consumption?
No, not really. While small amounts of cooked pork can be safe for dogs, ensure it is unseasoned and fully cooked. Pineapple is also pet-friendly in moderation, but large amounts can cause an upset stomach. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.

What can I serve with Pineapple Pork Chops?
Definitely! Pairing is half the fun! Serve these delicious pineapple pork chops over fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up that beautiful sauce. They also go wonderfully with steamed veggies like broccoli or snap peas. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions to elevate your meal’s presentation!