These Dijon Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor! The tangy mustard creates a tasty glaze that really makes the meat shine. Plus, they’re easy to whip up for a weeknight dinner!
I love serving these chops with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. They make me feel like a gourmet chef, even on busy nights! You’ll love how quick they are to cook!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and moisture. If you prefer boneless, they work too, just reduce cooking time slightly.
Dijon Mustard: This gives your sauce a nice tang. If you don’t have Dijon, you can substitute with yellow mustard, but know that it will be less flavorful.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may not be as rich. For dairy-free, coconut cream is a good alternative.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds an aromatic touch, but dried thyme works too. Use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Can You Perfectly Sear Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops is essential for flavor and texture. Here’s how to make sure they turn out perfectly:
- Start with room-temperature chops; let them sit out for about 20 minutes before cooking.
- Use a hot skillet. The oil should shimmer, but not smoke.
- Don’t crowd the pan; work in batches if needed to achieve a good sear.
- Let them cook without moving them for 4-5 minutes until golden brown before flipping.
Following these steps helps to lock in juices, making your pork chops deliciously tender!
How to Make Dijon Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp whole-grain mustard
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, plus extra for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes of prep and cooking time. You’ll spend a little time seasoning and searing the chops, followed by making a tasty sauce, bringing the total time to around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will enhance the flavor and help create a delicious crust when cooking.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Add the pork chops to the skillet, leaving enough space between them to ensure even cooking. Sear the chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Once done, remove them from the skillet and place on a plate, covering them loosely with foil to keep warm.
3. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to release any tasty bits stuck to the surface. Let it simmer for around 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Add the Cream and Mustards:
Next, stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, and thyme leaves. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken a bit. This sauce is what will add the amazing flavor to your pork chops!
5. Combine and Heat:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning some of that lovely sauce over them. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just to heat the chops through and ensure they’re nicely coated with that tangy mustard sauce.
6. Serve:
To serve, place the pork chops on plates, drizzling with the creamy Dijon mustard sauce. You can also garnish with extra fresh thyme for a nice touch. These delicious pork chops pair wonderfully with roasted potatoes or a simple green salad. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just adjust your cooking time slightly since they may cook faster than bone-in versions. Aim for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Low-Carb?
This recipe is already quite low in carbs, but to enhance it further, serve the pork chops with steamed vegetables or a leafy green salad instead of potatoes or rice. The Dijon mustard sauce adds great flavor without the carbs!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Dijon pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to prevent the sauce from thickening too much.
Can I Freeze the Pork Chops After Cooking?
Yes! You can freeze the cooked pork chops for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best texture.
