This Easy Sheet Pan Kung Pao Pork Chops recipe is a flavor-packed delight! You get juicy pork chops roasted with crunchy veggies, all tossed in a delicious, spicy sauce.
You’ll love how quick it is to whip up. Just throw everything on a sheet pan, and let the oven do the work! Perfect for busy weeknights and tasty enough to impress! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are great for this dish. You can swap them for boneless chicken thighs or even tofu if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Bell Peppers: Red and green bell peppers add color and crunch. Feel free to substitute with other veggies like zucchini, broccoli, or snap peas based on what you have on hand.
Kung Pao Sauce: Soy sauce is key for flavor. Use low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter option. You can replace hoisin sauce with teriyaki sauce if you can’t find it, but the flavor will differ slightly.
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Juicy and Tender?
Cooking pork chops properly is essential to avoid dryness. Here’s how:
- Choose pork chops that are about 1-inch thick for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. You want them at 145°F (63°C) for juicy, tender meat.
- Let the pork rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven; this helps keep the juices locked in.
Following these tips will help you end up with delicious, moist pork chops every time! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Easy Sheet Pan Kung Pao Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork and Veggies:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
- 3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
For the Kung Pao Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and around 20-25 minutes for cooking. Total, this recipe will take approximately 35-40 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This will make cleanup easier too!
2. Make the Kung Pao Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), sesame oil, cornstarch, water, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix it well and set aside. This sauce is what will give your dish that awesome Kung Pao flavor!
3. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops on the sheet pan. Brush each chop with about half of the vegetable oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Add the Veggies:
Scatter the sliced bell peppers, onion, minced garlic, and ginger around the pork chops. Drizzle the remaining oil over the vegetables and toss them lightly to coat. This helps to bring out their flavors while roasting.
5. Roast in the Oven:
Roast everything in the oven for about 18-20 minutes. You want the pork chops to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the veggies should be tender. Keep an eye on them.
6. Add the Sauce:
Once done, carefully remove the sheet pan from the oven. Pour the Kung Pao sauce evenly over the pork chops and veggies. This is where the magic happens!
7. Broil for Extra Flavor:
Return the pan to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it as you want the sauce to become bubbly and slightly thickened. This adds a nice glaze to the dish.
8. Add Finishing Touches:
Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle roasted peanuts and sliced green onions on top for crunch and freshness.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Easy Sheet Pan Kung Pao Pork Chops immediately with steamed rice or your favorite side. Enjoy the delicious flavors!
Happy cooking! 😋
FAQ About Easy Sheet Pan Kung Pao Pork Chops
Can I Use Chicken Instead of Pork Chops?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts or thighs can be substituted for pork chops. Just ensure you cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the Kung Pao sauce. You can also omit them entirely or serve extra hot sauce on the side for those who like it spicy!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pork chops and veggies with the sauce in advance, refrigerate them, and then bake them just before serving. This will save you time on busy nights!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or warm them in the oven until heated through!
This FAQ should help you with any common queries while preparing the Easy Sheet Pan Kung Pao Pork Chops!