These honey mustard pork chops are sweet and tangy, making every bite so tasty! They are super easy to whip up with just a few ingredients—perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
You can’t go wrong with that golden glaze! I love serving these juicy chops with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. It’s a meal that feels special without a lot of fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for moisture and flavor, but you can use boneless chops if preferred. Just adjust cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Dijon Mustard: This adds that signature tang. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard works too, but it will be milder. Some people love using whole grain mustard for a nice texture!
Honey: Honey gives sweetness, but maple syrup is a tasty substitute if you’re out. You can also try agave nectar for a vegan option.
Chicken Broth: If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, use low-sodium broth or water. Vegetable broth can work well too!
Thyme: Fresh thyme offers bright flavor. Dry thyme is fine; just use less as it’s more concentrated. If you don’t have thyme, rosemary can be a lovely change!
How Do I Sear Pork Chops Perfectly Every Time?
Searing pork chops creates a nice crust and locks in the juices. Here’s how to do it right:
- First, make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil. This helps prevent sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.
- Let them sear without moving them for about 4-5 minutes. This gives a better crust. Only flip once!
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked chops.
Let your chops rest for a few minutes after cooking for juicier results!
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 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a slight tang)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: fresh or roasted asparagus or other green vegetables for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish can be ready in about 25-30 minutes! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the pork chops, and then adding just a few more minutes to whip up the amazing honey mustard sauce!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Begin by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This helps them sear nicely. Next, generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until they are nicely browned and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to let it burn! Now, stir in the Dijon mustard, honey, chicken broth (or water), and apple cider vinegar if you want that extra tang. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it begins to thicken. After that, add the fresh thyme leaves and give it a good stir.
5. Combine Chops and Sauce:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, placing them into the sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chops and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once finished, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the pork chops with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color. Serve these warm, drizzling some of that luscious honey mustard sauce on top, alongside vegetables like roasted asparagus or creamy mashed potatoes.
Enjoy a juicy, flavorful pork chop with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used instead of bone-in ones. Just keep in mind that boneless chops may cook faster, so check them a few minutes earlier to prevent overcooking.
How Can I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm them in a skillet over low heat to maintain their juiciness.
Can I Make This Recipe with Chicken Instead of Pork?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts or thighs for the pork chops! Cooking times may vary slightly, so make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when done.
What Can I Serve with Honey Mustard Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts also make excellent sides, adding color and nutrition to your meal.
