These honey mustard pork chops are simply amazing! With a blend of sweet honey and zesty mustard, they pack a punch of flavor that makes dinner exciting.
Cooking them is a breeze! There’s nothing like the smell of these sizzling in the pan. I love serving them with some veggies on the side for a tasty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops are great for this recipe. If you prefer a different cut, try bone-in chops or even pork tenderloin. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
Whole Grain Mustard: This adds texture and bold flavor. If you don’t have it, Dijon mustard works smoothly and still packs a punch. Honey mustard can also be a tasty alternative if you want more sweetness.
Honey: Local honey gives a lovely flavor. If you’re out of honey, maple syrup or agave syrup can be good substitutes, though they change the flavor profile a bit.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for its robust taste. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used—just about 1/4 teaspoon should do.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Sear and Flavorful Sauce?
Searing your pork chops is crucial for developing flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil. This helps achieve a golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed to let them brown properly.
- When making the sauce, keep the heat to medium after adding garlic to prevent burning. A quick sauté brings out the garlic flavor without bitter notes.
- Add broth or water only if the sauce thickens too quickly. This keeps it pourable and enhances moisture.
By following these tips, you’ll have delicious pork chops with a tasty, glossy sauce that you’ll love!
Honey Mustard Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons whole grain mustard (or Dijon mustard for smoother texture)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for a slight tang)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water (optional, to deglaze pan and add moisture)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for cooking, giving you a total time of about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely! Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring they’re well-coated for flavor.
2. Searing the Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully add the seasoned pork chops, searing them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for that beautiful golden-brown color! Make sure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate to keep warm.
3. Creating the Honey Mustard Sauce:
Now, lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell that lovely aroma—just be careful not to let it burn! Then, stir in the whole grain mustard, honey, chopped parsley, and apple cider vinegar (if you’re using it). Let this mixture simmer for 1-2 minutes while stirring frequently. If it gets too thick, don’t panic! You can gradually add the chicken broth or water until it’s just the right consistency.
4. Finishing the Dish:
Return the seared pork chops to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Allow everything to simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes, so the pork chops can soak up some of that delicious sauce and warm through.
5. Serving Time:
Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the pork chops drizzled with the honey mustard sauce, and feel free to garnish with extra parsley for a pop of color! Enjoy your tasty meal alongside some roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a delightful dinner.
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that bone-in chops may require a bit longer cooking time. Make sure they still reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you don’t have honey on hand, maple syrup or agave syrup can work well as substitutes. Keep in mind that they may alter the flavor slightly, offering a different but still delicious sweetness!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying them out.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
While it’s best to serve it fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, just cook the pork chops fresh and combine with the sauce for a quick meal!