Dijon Pork Chops are juicy and flavorful, coated with a tasty Dijon mustard sauce that gives them a nice zing. They are easy to cook and perfect for a quick family dinner!
I love making these chops because they’re ready in no time. Just sear them in a pan and let the sauce do its magic. Plus, they pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for extra flavor, but you can swap in boneless chops if needed. Just remember cooking time may vary slightly.
Dijon Mustard: This gives the dish a nice kick. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard can work in a pinch, but it’s milder.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you could use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be as rich. Vegan cream alternatives like coconut cream also work!
Fresh Thyme: Although fresh thyme is best for flavor, dried thyme will do. Use about one-third of the amount if substituting because it’s more concentrated.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Searing Your Pork Chops?
Searing is key for flavor and texture. Here’s how you can make it work perfectly:
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high until it’s hot and shimmering with oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—give the pork chops space to breathe. If they’re too close, they will steam instead of sear!
- Leave the chops undisturbed for 4-5 minutes. This promotes a nice crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Allowing the chops to rest after searing helps keep them juicy. Enjoy cooking!
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 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (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 make these delicious Dijon Pork Chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by generously seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This adds flavor and enhances the taste of the meat.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully place the pork chops in the skillet and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked. When done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside to rest.
3. Make the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant. Then, stir in the Dijon mustard and chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
4. Simmer and Add Cream:
Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Then, stir in the heavy cream, fresh thyme, and butter. Keep cooking and stirring for another 2 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Combine and Finish:
Return the cooked pork chops to the skillet and spoon some of that delightful sauce over them. Heat everything together for an additional minute before serving.
6. Garnish and Serve:
For an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired. Serve your Dijon Pork Chops immediately alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables, and enjoy the delicious flavors!
Enjoy your flavorful Dijon Pork Chops with that rich, creamy mustard sauce!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops, but be sure to adjust the cooking time. Boneless chops usually cook faster, so aim for about 3-4 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth works well for a lighter flavor. You can also use water mixed with some soy sauce for a savory kick.
How Should I Store Any Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to freshen up the sauce!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream, and use a dairy-free butter substitute to keep it dairy-free.
