Easy Skillet Honey Mustard Pork Chops Recipe

"I wanted to make some simple and flavorful honey mustard pork chops for dinner a few nights ago, but couldn't find a recipe that I thought would work for me. So, I created one, and the results were excellent! The sauce for these chops is bright and rich, but not too sweet. Seasoned center-cut pork chops are lightly browned in a mix of oil and bacon drippings, removed to a plate, and held while onions are lightly caramelized. The pan is deglazed with a bit of white wine, then a simple honey mustard sauce is stirred in along with any juices from the chops. The sauce is brought to a simmer, and the meat is added back to the pan. The lid goes on, and the pork is braised for about 15 minutes. The sauce is finished with a bit of fresh parsley and served with the chops. I like to serve this with rice and a simple vegie on the side. This sauce would also work well for salmon steaks. Just braise for a shorter time and finish the sauce with chopped fresh dill."

Step by Step Method

Step 1

1. Place a 12 to 14-inch stainless steel skillet with a tight-fitting lid over medium-high heat. Add the oil (and/or bacon drippings) to the pan. Season the chops generously with kosher salt and fresh black pepper. When the oil just starts to smoke, add the chops in a single layer. Cook for about 3 minutes or until lightly browned, then repeat on the other side. If necessary, do this in batches, using more oil as needed. Remove to a plate and keep warm.

Step 2

2. If necessary, add more oil to the pan, then add the onions, along with another pinch of salt and fresh black pepper. Lower the heat to medium and cook, stirring often, until the onions soften and turn a light caramel color, about 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 3

3. Meanwhile, combine the mustard, honey, lemon juice, and Cajun seasoning in a small bowl; set aside.

Step 4

4. Add the white wine to the skillet, and using a wooden spoon, scrape the bottom of the pan to remove the fond, until the pan feels smooth. Add the mustard mixture, along with any accumulated juices from the pork, to the skillet and stir to combine well. Bring the sauce just to a gentle simmer, then add the pork chops to the sauce, turning to coat evenly. Cover the pan, and cook for 15 minutes, turning once half way through cooking. Adjust the heat as necessary to maintain a simmer.

Step 5

5. Remove the chops to a serving pladder, then stir the sauce in the pan to recombine. Turn off the heat, taste for seasoning, then add the parsley to the sauce. Pour over the chops and serve immediately.