These maple glazed pork chops are a tasty treat! The sweet maple syrup pairs perfectly with savory seasonings, making each bite a delightful experience.
Cooking these chops fills your kitchen with a wonderful smell—who can resist? I love serving them with some mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a tasty meal that’s easy to make! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops offer great flavor and moisture. If you prefer boneless, that works too. Just watch the cooking time since they may cook faster.
Maple Syrup: Always choose pure maple syrup for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, try agave syrup or honey, but keep in mind they’ll taste a bit different.
Dijon Mustard: This gives a nice tang. If you don’t have it, plain yellow mustard or even whole grain mustard can make a good substitute.
Thyme: Fresh thyme is lovely, but dried thyme is convenient and does the trick. Most herbs can work here; rosemary would be an interesting choice too!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops is key to locking in their juices and flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chops. This helps form a nice golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. If your skillet is too full, the chops will steam instead of sear.
- Let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes before flipping. This allows a nice crust to form.
If you find the chops are sticking to the pan, give them a little more time before trying to flip them. Patience pays off!
Maple Glazed Pork Chops with Sweet and Savory Flavor
Ingredients:
- For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the Maple Glaze:
- 3/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes for prep and about 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 30-35 minutes to enjoy these delicious pork chops from start to finish!
Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops with a good amount of salt and black pepper. This helps to enhance the flavor as they cook.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. They don’t need to be fully cooked yet, so just give them a lovely golden color. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Glaze:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant—just enough to bring out that wonderful garlicky smell! Next, add the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, dried thyme, and optional smoked paprika. Stir everything together and let it come to a gentle simmer.
4. Return the Chops:
Put the seared pork chops back into the skillet. Turn them in the glaze to coat them well. Lower the heat to low and let them cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally. This will allow the pork to finish cooking while the glaze thickens a little. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe eating.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and let the pork chops rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley. These maple glazed pork chops are delicious when served warm alongside your favorite sides, like creamy mashed potatoes or vibrant roasted vegetables.
Enjoy your sweet and savory maple glazed pork chops!
FAQ – Maple Glazed Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used, but keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Maple Syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives. Just note that the flavor profile will change slightly; honey will be sweeter and agave may have a milder taste.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can marinate the pork chops in the glaze for a few hours (or overnight) before cooking. Just follow the cooking instructions when you’re ready to serve. The flavor will be even better!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.