Maple Dijon Glazed Pork Chops - Sweet and Tangy Skillet
Pan-seared pork chops glazed with a sweet and tangy maple-Dijon sauce create a perfectly balanced weeknight dinner. The maple syrup caramelizes beautifully while the Dijon mustard adds a sharp, sophisticated edge that cuts through the richness. This simple yet elegant dish transforms basic pork chops into restaurant-quality fare in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy families or date night dinners when you want something special without the fuss.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Preheat skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil
- 2
Season pork chops with salt and pepper
- 3
Sear pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned
- 4
Combine maple syrup and Dijon mustard in mixing bowl
- 5
Pour maple-Dijon mixture over pork chops and reduce heat to medium
- 6
Cook for another 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until pork chops are cooked through
- 7
Serve hot
Tips
Use a meat thermometer to ensure pork reaches 145F internal temperature for food safety
Let pork chops rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking for even searing
Choose bone-in chops for more flavor or boneless for quicker, more even cooking
Good to Know
Refrigerate cooked pork chops for up to 3 days in airtight container
Season chops and prepare glaze up to 4 hours ahead, store separately
Serve immediately while hot with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes
Common Mistakes
Don't overcook pork to avoid dryness - use meat thermometer
Reduce heat after searing to prevent burning the maple glaze
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use thick-cut pork chops?
Yes, but increase cooking time by 5-8 minutes and use lower heat to ensure they cook through without burning the glaze.
What if I don't have Dijon mustard?
Yellow mustard works but use half the amount as it's more acidic, or substitute with whole grain mustard for texture.
How long will leftovers keep?
Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to prevent drying out.