These honey mustard pork chops are sweet and tangy, making them a tasty dinner option. They’re super easy to prepare, and the glaze gives them a lovely golden color!
I love how the honey and mustard come together to make each bite mouthwatering. Pair these chops with some veggies, and you’ve got a meal that tastes like a special treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal because they add tenderness and flavor. If you want a leaner option, boneless chops or even chicken breasts can work, but adjust cooking time as needed.
Dijon Mustard: This provides a sharp, tangy taste. If you don’t have Dijon, you can use yellow mustard, but it will be less intense. For a sweeter version, try honey mustard instead.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and balance to the tangy mustard. Maple syrup can be a great substitute if you’re out of honey, giving a different but delicious flavor.
Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level. If you want a dairy-free option, olive oil or coconut oil can work well in this recipe.
How Do I Get Perfectly Seared Pork Chops?
Getting that nice golden-brown sear is key for flavor. Start by patting the pork chops dry; this helps them brown better. Here’s how to sear them:
- Heat olive oil in your skillet until it’s hot but not smoking.
- Lay the pork chops in the pan and don’t move them for the first few minutes—this helps form a crust.
- Once they’re seared nicely on one side, flip them and add the butter and garlic for extra flavor.
- Keep basting the chops with the melted butter for more moisture.
Letting the chops rest after cooking keeps them juicy, so don’t skip that step!
Honey Mustard Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. Easy, quick, and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear them without moving for about 4-5 minutes until they’re golden brown on one side.
3. Add Butter and Garlic:
Flip the pork chops over and add the unsalted butter and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, occasionally spooning the melted butter and garlic over the chops for extra flavor.
4. Make the Honey Mustard Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar (if using). This creates a sweet and tangy glaze!
5. Glaze the Chops:
Lower the heat to medium-low and pour the honey mustard glaze over the pork chops. Cook for about 2-3 minutes while basting them with the glaze, allowing it to thicken a bit.
6. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, transfer the pork chops to a plate and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices in!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a pop of freshness and serve warm with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Enjoy your delicious honey mustard pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness a few minutes earlier to avoid drying them out.
What Can I Substitute for Dijon Mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand, yellow mustard is a good alternative, though it will have a milder flavor. Honey mustard can also be used for a sweeter twist!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent them from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pork chops right before serving and brush on the pre-made glaze for a quick turnaround!
