These Dijon Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor! The tangy mustard coating adds a nice twist, making dinner time exciting and tasty.
Honestly, they cook up so quickly that I love making them on busy nights. Serve with some veggies, and you’ve got a meal that’s both easy and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless, 1-inch thick pork chops are my go-to for this dish. But you can also use bone-in chops or pork tenderloin if that’s what you have. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Dijon Mustard: The star of the show! If you’re looking for a twist, use spicy brown mustard instead. It gives a bolder flavor, but regular yellow mustard can work in a pinch, too.
Whole Grain Mustard: This adds texture and depth to the sauce. If you don’t have it, you could just double the Dijon mustard for a smoother sauce.
Heavy Cream: It creates a rich sauce. You can substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version, but it may not thicken as much.
Fresh Thyme: Fresh herbs really elevate the dish, but dried thyme is a great substitute. Just remember, dried is stronger, so use about 1/3 of the amount.
What’s the Best Way to Get Perfectly Searing Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops to get that golden-brown crust can be tricky. Here are the steps to master it:
- Make sure your skillet is preheated. You want it hot enough to sear the meat without letting it stick.
- Pat the pork chops dry to help them brown better. Moisture can cause steaming instead of searing.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary to keep the heat up!
- Let the pork chops cook undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping. This creates that beautiful crust.
Following these tips will help your pork chops turn out juicy with a great texture every time! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Dijon Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and around 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes to have these delicious Dijon Pork Chops ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will ensure they are flavorful all the way through.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a nice golden-brown crust. The pork should be just cooked through. Once done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
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 but be careful not to burn it. Then stir in the Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, and fresh thyme, mixing everything well with the garlic.
4. Create the Flavorful Base:
Pour in the chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pan to release any delicious browned bits. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it reduces slightly.
5. Add Cream for Richness:
Next, stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, while continuing to stir, until the sauce thickens a bit. You’ll notice a wonderful creamy texture forming!
6. Combine and Warm:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the mustard sauce over them. Let them warm through for 1-2 minutes so they soak up all that flavor.
7. Plate and Serve:
Transfer the pork chops to your serving plates and drizzle extra sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme sprigs if you like for a lovely presentation.
Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or steamed green vegetables, and enjoy your juicy, flavorful Dijon Pork Chops with a creamy, tangy sauce!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as bone-in chops may take a bit longer to cook through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 145°F for safe consumption.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk. Just note that the sauce may be a little thinner and less creamy. You can also add a tablespoon of flour to thicken it up if necessary.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the pork chops.
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mustard sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently on the stovetop before pouring it over the cooked pork chops to serve.
