These honey mustard pork chops are juicy and packed with flavor! The sweet honey mixes perfectly with tangy mustard, making every bite delightfully tasty.
Honestly, cooking these makes the kitchen smell awesome! I love serving them with some mashed potatoes or veggies. They’re easy to whip up and always a hit at the dinner table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops give great flavor, but boneless chops work just as well if that’s what you have. Aim for about 1 inch thick to ensure a juicy result!
Mustards: Whole grain mustard adds texture and a mild kick. If you prefer less spice, stick to regular yellow mustard. For a bit more heat, opt for spicy brown mustard instead!
Honey: This ingredient balances the mustard’s tang. If you’re out, maple syrup can be a great substitute for sweetness. Just know it could change the flavor a little!
Chicken Broth: Using broth adds depth to the sauce. If you don’t have it, water works too! However, homemade or low-sodium broth is always a better choice if you want rich flavor.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Searing Pork Chops?
Searing is essential for a great crust and flavor! Here’s how you can do it right:
- Start with dry pork chops—pat them with paper towels.
- Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the taste.
- Heat the olive oil in the skillet until it shimmers, but don’t let it smoke!
- Sear the chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Avoid moving them around too much; this helps create that nice golden-brown crust.
Checking the internal temperature is key too; 145°F (63°C) is perfect for juicy pork! Happy cooking!
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
- 3 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes in total: 10 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes for cooking. Once you start, you’ll have delicious honey mustard pork chops ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Begin by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear. Next, sprinkle salt and pepper generously over both sides of each chop—seasoning is key to great flavor!
2. Sear the Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet, making sure not to crowd them. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until they are nicely browned and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove the chops and place them on a plate.
3. Make the Honey Mustard Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Then pour in the whole grain mustard, Dijon mustard, honey, and chicken broth. Stir everything together and let this simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Combine and Serve:
Return the seared pork chops back into the skillet and spoon the honey mustard sauce over them. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to warm the chops and let those flavors blend. Finally, remove from heat, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs, and they’re ready to be served!
Enjoy your flavorful and juicy Honey Mustard Pork Chops! They pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work fine in this recipe. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for a similar internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you don’t have honey on hand, you can use maple syrup as a sweet alternative. It will impart a slightly different flavor but still add the necessary sweetness!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
You can prepare the honey mustard sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just reheat it in a skillet when you’re ready to serve. Cook the pork chops fresh for the best texture!