Maple Dijon Pork Chops

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Maple Dijon Pork Chops are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a cozy dinner at home. This recipe combines the richness of maple syrup with the tangy kick of Dijon mustard, creating a dish that's both comforting and sophisticated.

Ingredients for Maple Dijon Pork Chops

The star of the show is, of course, the pork chops. They provide a hearty base that soaks up the flavorful sauce. Maple syrup adds sweetness and depth, balancing the zing of the Dijon mustard. A splash of apple cider vinegar introduces a bit of acidity, making the flavors pop. Olive oil ensures the pork chops sear beautifully, while garlic powder, salt, and black pepper bring essential seasoning. For a fresh finish, a sprinkle of fresh parsley is optional but recommended.

Tips & Tricks

  • For an extra caramelized crust, press each pork chop down gently with a spatula while searing.
  • If you're short on time, marinate the pork chops in the sauce for an hour before cooking for even deeper flavor.
  • Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; a perfectly cooked pork chop should be juicy, not dry.

Serving Suggestions

These pork chops pair beautifully with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes, complementing the sweet and savory notes. For a lighter option, serve alongside a fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette. Mashed potatoes or rice also make excellent accompaniments, soaking up the delicious sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as bone-in chops might take a bit longer to cook through.
Is there a substitute for apple cider vinegar?
You can use white wine vinegar or even a splash of lemon juice in a pinch.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the pork chops a day in advance. Sear and bake them just before serving for best results.

Maple Dijon Pork Chops Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it's hot and ready once your pork chops are seared. Next, in a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This will be your delicious sauce.

Now, take an oven-safe skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops to the skillet, searing them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they achieve a golden-brown crust. This step locks in the juices and adds a lovely texture.

Once seared, pour the maple Dijon sauce over the pork chops directly in the skillet. Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the chops for 15-20 minutes. You're aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.

When done, remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent. If you like, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • The combination of maple and mustard creates a unique flavor profile.
  • Uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.
  • It's versatile; can be paired with a variety of sides.
  • Minimal cleanup with the one-skillet method.

Ingredients

4 boneless pork chops
1/2 cup maple syrup
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork chops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Pour the maple Dijon sauce over the pork chops and transfer the skillet to the oven.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

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