These Easy Honey Mustard Grilled Pork Chops are a perfect mix of sweet and tangy! With just a few simple ingredients, they become super tasty and juicy on the grill.
I love making these on sunny days. The flavor is like a summer hug, and they pair perfectly with a fresh salad. Plus, clean-up is a breeze—win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for grilling since they stay juicy. If you prefer, boneless chops or even thick-cut pork loin can be used. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
Mustards: Dijon and whole grain mustards make a perfect combo for flavor. If you don’t have whole grain mustard, you can use yellow mustard—but the texture won’t be the same. A homemade mustard mix can work as well!
Honey: Honey brings sweetness that balances the tanginess of mustard. If you’re out of honey, maple syrup or agave can be good alternatives, but they might change the flavor slightly. I prefer local honey for a richer taste!
Apple Cider Vinegar: This is optional, but it adds a nice tang to the marinade. If you don’t have it, any vinegar will work in a pinch, like white wine vinegar or even lemon juice for acidity.
How Do You Achieve Perfect Grilled Pork Chops?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but a few simple steps will help you nail it. Start by preheating your grill properly. Cooking on a hot grill sears the meat, keeping it juicy.
- Season chops well with salt and pepper before applying your sauce. This enhances the flavor.
- Brush the sauce on before grilling and during cooking; this builds flavor and creates a nice glaze.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—145°F (63°C) is the magic number for juicy pork.
- Let your chops rest after grilling for 3-5 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices!
Easy Honey Mustard Grilled Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup whole grain mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a bit of tang)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10-12 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick meal option that’s perfect for busy days or sunny grill days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which is around 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your pork chops sear nicely and remain juicy on the inside.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Generously sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides of each pork chop. This basic seasoning will enhance the flavors of the meat.
3. Make the Honey Mustard Sauce:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, and apple cider vinegar, if you’re using it. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended. This will be your flavorful marinade!
4. Apply the Sauce:
Take a brush and apply a bit of the honey mustard sauce on both sides of each pork chop. This step is key to infusing the chops with yummy flavor while they cook.
5. Grill the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops on the preheated grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, brushing extra honey mustard sauce onto the chops as they grill. This helps to build up a beautiful glaze!
6. Check for Doneness:
Grill until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C). The meat should be juicy and slightly pink in the center.
7. Let Them Rest:
Once grilled to perfection, remove the pork chops from the grill and allow them to rest for about 3-5 minutes. This resting period helps the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, spoon any remaining honey mustard sauce over the chops and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your deliciously caramelized grilled pork chops!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes! Boneless pork chops can be used, but keep in mind they may cook faster. Reduce the grilling time to about 3-4 minutes per side, and check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you don’t have honey on hand, maple syrup or agave syrup can serve as sweet alternatives. They will impart a slightly different flavor, but they’ll still work well in this recipe!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave for a minute or two, or gently warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops in the honey mustard sauce overnight in the fridge can enhance their flavor and tenderness. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before grilling for even cooking!
