Honey mustard pork chops are a tasty dish that combines sweet and tangy flavors. The juicy pork is coated with a yummy honey mustard sauce that makes every bite flavorful!
I love how quick this dish is to whip up, just season, pan-fry, and glaze those chops. Perfect for busy nights or when you want something special without too much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops result in extra flavor and juiciness, but you can use boneless chops if preferred. Just reduce cooking time slightly since they cook faster.
Mustards: Dijon mustard gives a nice tang. If you don’t have whole grain mustard, just use more Dijon or substitute with yellow mustard, noting that the flavor will be less complex.
Honey: This adds sweetness to the sauce. For a healthier version, you can exchange honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. Both will work well!
Chicken Broth: I like using homemade broth for its richer taste, but low-sodium store-bought is just fine too. Vegetable broth makes a good alternative for a lighter flavor.
Herbs: Fresh thyme adds lovely flavor, but if fresh isn’t available, feel free to use dried thyme—just use about 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more potent.
How Do You Get Perfectly Seared Pork Chops?
A perfect sear is key for juicy pork chops! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Make sure the pork chops are at room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Pat them dry thoroughly to avoid steaming. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot, then add oil. Look for that shimmer before adding the chops.
- Place the chops in the skillet without overcrowding—this helps achieve a good sear. Cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side, then flip.
- Don’t move them around! Let them sit so they can form that beautiful crust.
Perfectly cooked pork chops finish resting off the heat for a few minutes, allowing juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
How to Make Honey Mustard Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: steamed or sautéed green vegetables like asparagus or green beans for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, totaling about 30 minutes. You’ll spend this time seasoning the pork chops, making the honey mustard sauce, cooking, and letting everything rest. Easy to follow 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. Then, season each side with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring they’re well-coated for flavor.
2. Make the Honey Mustard Sauce:
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, minced garlic, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice) until everything is well combined. Set this fragrant sauce aside while you cook the chops.
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden-brown and reach an internal temperature of about 140°F (60°C).
4. Add the Sauce:
When the pork chops are nearly done, reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour the honey mustard sauce evenly over the pork chops in the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce over the tops of the chops and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. This will thicken the sauce slightly and create a tasty glaze.
5. Let Them Rest:
Once the pork chops are coated and the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat. Take the chops out of the skillet and let them rest on a plate for 3-5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy as they finish cooking to 145°F (63°C).
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped thyme over the pork chops for a burst of fresh flavor. Plate them alongside your favorite green veggies, like steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans. Drizzle some extra sauce over the top for added flavor. Enjoy your delicious honey mustard pork chops!
This recipe gives you juicy pork chops with a delightful caramelized sear, enhanced by the sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops work well, but be sure to reduce the cooking time by a couple of minutes since they cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Dijon Mustard?
No worries! You can substitute Dijon with yellow mustard for a milder flavor or use more whole grain mustard if you have it. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Check the mustard and chicken broth labels to ensure they are gluten-free. Most Dijon mustards are gluten-free, but it’s always good to verify. You can also use homemade broth to be safe!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over low heat or microwave gently, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the meat moist.
