Balsamic Roasted Pork Skillet Nuggets

Balsamic Roasted Pork Skillet Nuggets are tender, caramelized bites of pork seared to golden perfection and glazed in a tangy-sweet balsamic reduction. This one-pan recipe is fast, flavorful, and ideal for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These skillet nuggets are packed with flavor thanks to a simple marinade and high-heat searing that locks in juiciness. The balsamic glaze creates a beautiful caramelized crust, while the small nugget-sized pieces cook quickly and are easy to portion. It’s a protein-packed dish that pairs well with anything from roasted veggies to mashed potatoes or rice.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pork tenderloin or boneless pork chops, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Balsamic vinegar
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Dijon mustard
• Honey or brown sugar
• Dried rosemary or thyme
• Salt and black pepper
• Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Directions

this recipe

1. Marinate the pork: In a bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, herbs, salt, and pepper. Add the pork pieces and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to 2 hours for more flavor).
2. Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil.
3. Sear the pork: Remove pork from the marinade and shake off excess. Add to the hot skillet in a single layer. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Do this in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
4. Deglaze with balsamic: Once all the pork is browned, return it to the pan and pour in a couple tablespoons of balsamic vinegar. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes until the pork is glazed and the liquid has reduced slightly.
5. Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot with your favorite sides.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Sweet & spicy: Add a tablespoon of hot honey or a dash of sriracha to the marinade.
• Herb-forward: Use fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage for a fragrant twist.
• Citrus zing: Add a splash of orange or lemon juice to the marinade for brightness.
• Asian-inspired: Use soy sauce and a touch of ginger in place of mustard and herbs.
• Skewer style: Thread nuggets on skewers and grill or broil for a fun variation.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave briefly until hot. Add a splash of water or balsamic to loosen the glaze if needed.
Not ideal for freezing once cooked, but raw marinated pork can be frozen for up to 3 months.

FAQs

What cut of pork should I use?

Pork tenderloin is ideal for tenderness, but boneless pork loin or chops also work well.

Do I have to marinate the pork?

A short marinade adds flavor, but even 15 minutes makes a difference. For best results, marinate longer.

Can I use balsamic glaze instead of vinegar?

Yes, but reduce or skip the honey or sugar to avoid making it too sweet.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure your mustard and balsamic vinegar are gluten-free.

Can I cook this in the oven?

Yes, roast at 425°F (220°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Finish with a glaze drizzle.

What sides go well with this?

Roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, rice, polenta, or a simple green salad pair beautifully.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, marinate the pork and refrigerate until ready to cook. Cooked leftovers also reheat well.

How do I know when the pork is done?

The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). The nuggets should be golden on the outside and juicy inside.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—just cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Does this work with chicken?

Yes, chicken breast or thigh meat can be used as a substitute.

Conclusion

Balsamic Roasted Pork Skillet Nuggets are a quick and flavorful solution for a satisfying meal. With their caramelized edges and tangy glaze, they pack a punch in every bite. Whether served for dinner or meal prepped for the week, this dish is a delicious way to enjoy pork with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

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