There’s something utterly comforting about the way a succulent pork chop dressed in a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze sings on your palate. These Honey Mustard & Apple Pork Chops bring together the perfect harmony of savory meat and fruity sweetness, leaving you craving just one more bite. Tender slices of Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples nestle beneath each chop, soaking up all those delicious pan juices. As the pork cooks, the glaze caramelizes on the outside, forming a glossy coat that locks in moisture and flavor. It's an easy, beginner-friendly dish that transforms a weeknight dinner into something special—no fuss, no fancy techniques, just pure, delightful cooking.
What really makes this recipe stand out is how quickly it comes together. In just under an hour—15 minutes prep, 30 minutes cooking, and a brief rest—you’ve got an impressive, restaurant-worthy plate. The fragrant blend of garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and apple cider vinegar adds depth while keeping things light. Plus, with only about 350 calories per serving, you can enjoy every bite without guilt. Whether you’re seeking new dinner ideas or want to impress guests, these chops deliver the cozy, memorable flavors your family will talk about long after the last slice of apple has been devoured.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN HONEY MUSTARD & APPLE PORK CHOPS
Before you dive into cooking, let’s take a moment to appreciate the ingredients that make this dish so irresistible. Each component plays an essential role, from building layers of flavor to ensuring juicy, tender pork chops every time.
- Pork Chops
Whether bone-in or boneless, pork chops are the heart of this dish. Bone-in chops often deliver more flavor during cooking, while boneless provide a leaner, quicker option. Choose chops about 1-inch thick for the perfect cook time.
- Olive Oil
A drizzle of olive oil helps achieve a beautiful sear on the pork chops. It also prevents sticking and adds a hint of fruitiness that complements the honey mustard glaze.
- Salt and Pepper
Simple seasonings that enhance the natural taste of the pork. A generous sprinkle of both ensures each bite is well-balanced and seasoned.
- Garlic Powder
This pantry staple deepens the savory profile without overwhelming the glaze. It layers in a subtle, earthy garlic flavor.
- Onion Powder
Adds a hint of sweetness and a mellow onion aroma that pairs beautifully with the apples and honey mustard.
- Dijon Mustard
The backbone of the glaze, Dijon mustard contributes tang and a silky texture. It cuts through the sweetness of the honey, creating a balanced sauce.
- Honey
Provides natural sweetness and helps create that glossy, caramelized finish. It also marries the savory and fruity elements in every bite.
- Garlic (Minced)
Fresh garlic adds a more vibrant, zesty flavor than powder alone. It infuses the honey mustard sauce with bright aromatic notes.
- Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
These varieties hold their shape when cooked and add the right mix of tartness and sweetness. They also soak up the pan juices for an extra flavor punch.
- Chicken Broth
Used to deglaze the pan, it lifts all those delicious browned bits, forming the base of a rich, savory sauce.
- Apple Cider Vinegar
A splash of acidity brightens the sauce and balances out the sweet honey, keeping the overall flavor profile dynamic.
- Thyme
Fresh or dried, thyme lends an herby, slightly minty aroma that pairs perfectly with both pork and apples.
HOW TO MAKE HONEY MUSTARD & APPLE PORK CHOPS
Let’s roll up our sleeves and bring these ingredients together. This recipe combines simple techniques—searing, deglazing, and baking—to create a dish that feels elevated yet remains incredibly achievable for any home cook.
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Ensuring the oven reaches the right temperature helps the pork chops cook evenly and finish with a juicy interior.
2. Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial for a golden-brown crust. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic until smooth. Set the honey mustard mixture aside—this will coat the chops later.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the pork chops and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side, creating a rich, caramelized exterior.
5. Remove the seared pork chops from the skillet and set them on a plate. This prevents overcooking while you prepare the apples and sauce.
6. In the same skillet, add the apple slices and sauté for about 2 minutes, until they start to soften and pick up those flavorful browned bits at the bottom.
7. Deglaze the pan by pouring in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up all the flavorful bits. Stir in the apple cider vinegar and thyme leaves to build a fragrant sauce.
8. Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them on top of the sautéed apples for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
9. Spoon the honey mustard mixture over each pork chop, making sure every piece is generously coated with that sticky, delicious glaze.
10. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The apples will continue to soften and meld with the glaze.
11. Remove from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. This rest period allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each chop stays moist.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR HONEY MUSTARD & APPLE PORK CHOPS
Elevating your dinner presentation is just as fun as cooking itself. These serving ideas will help you showcase the sweet-savory harmony of your pork chops and create a meal that feels truly complete.
- Mashed Potato Bed
Spoon creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate and place a glazed pork chop on top. The velvety potatoes soak up the honey mustard sauce, creating a comforting bite in every forkful.
- Roasted Vegetable Medley
Serve alongside a tray of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and parsnips tossed in olive oil and fresh herbs. The earthy vegetables add color and texture, balancing the dish.
- Crusty Artisan Bread
Offer thick slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping. There’s nothing better than mopping up the flavorful sauce; it’s the perfect way to savor every drop.
- Fresh Green Salad
Pair with a simple arugula salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens and acidic dressing cut through the rich glaze, refreshing your palate between bites.
HOW TO STORE HONEY MUSTARD & APPLE PORK CHOPS
Proper storage is key to preserving all those juicy flavors and tender textures if you have leftovers. Follow these tips to keep your pork chops tasting just as amazing the next day—or even later.
- Refrigerate Promptly
Allow the pork chops to cool slightly, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping the apples with the chops prevents the meat from drying out.
- Freeze for Longer
For maximum convenience, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Separate Sauce
If you prefer a saucier reheat, spoon leftover honey mustard sauce into a small jar and refrigerate separately. Warm it gently in a saucepan or microwave before drizzling over chops to revive that fresh-made flavor.
- Gentle Reheating
To prevent overcooking, reheat the chops on a low oven setting (around 300°F/150°C) for 10–15 minutes, covered with foil. This keeps the meat tender and preserves the glaze’s shine.
CONCLUSION
Bringing together the sweet richness of honey mustard with crisp, juicy apple slices, this Honey Mustard & Apple Pork Chops recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that feels both homey and elegantly balanced. From the initial searing to the final bake, every step is designed for beginner cooks seeking big flavors without complicated techniques. The garlic, thyme, and apple cider vinegar create layers of savory depth that perfectly complement the natural sweetness of honey and fruit, resulting in a dish that’s far more than the sum of its parts. With just about 350 calories per serving and a total time under an hour, it’s a fantastic addition to any weeknight repertoire or a delightful option for weekend gatherings.
Feel free to print this article and save it for your recipe box—you’ll want to revisit these chops again and again. You can also find a FAQ below that answers common questions about ingredients, cooking times, and variations. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Drop a comment with your feedback, questions, or any tweaks you made in your own kitchen. Your insights help everyone make the most of this sweet and savory dinner favorite. Happy cooking!
Honey Mustard & Apple Pork Chops
Description
These juicy pork chops are coated in a honey mustard glaze, complemented by tender apple slices. Perfectly baked, they bring warmth and delightful flavors to your table.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. Set aside.
-
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust.
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Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
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In the same skillet, add the apple slices and sauté for about 2 minutes, until slightly softened.
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Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in apple cider vinegar and thyme leaves.
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Return the pork chops to the skillet, placing them on top of the apples.
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Spoon the honey mustard mixture over each pork chop, ensuring they are well-coated.
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Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
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Remove from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Note
- For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the honey mustard sauce.
- Pair this dish with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Adjust sweetness by using different apple varieties, such as Fuji or Gala.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer the skillet contents on the stove for a few minutes after removing the pork chops.
- Ensure pork chops are not crowded in the skillet to achieve a better crust.
