Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with these mouthwatering Honey Dijon Pork Chops! Imagine golden, crispy cornmeal breading that crackles with each bite, perfectly complemented by a sweet and tangy honey Dijon glaze that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds. This recipe is not just a meal; it's a flavor explosion that combines classic American comfort food with gourmet flair, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and impressive weekend gatherings.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the pork chops by patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the breading adhere better.
- In a shallow dish, mix cornmeal, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the breading mixture.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard until well combined, creating a sweet and tangy coating.
- Brush each pork chop generously with the honey Dijon mixture, ensuring complete coverage on both sides.
- Dredge each honey-coated pork chop in the cornmeal breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breading adheres completely to the meat.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers and is hot but not smoking.
- Carefully place the breaded pork chops in the hot skillet, cooking for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove pork chops from the skillet and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which helps maintain moisture.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or a side of roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Pat your pork chops completely dry before breading to ensure maximum crispiness and better breading adhesion.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked pork - 145°F is the sweet spot for juicy, safe-to-eat meat.
- Let the pork chops rest after cooking to redistribute juices, ensuring each bite is tender and succulent.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to your cornmeal breading mix.
- Choose thick-cut pork chops for the best texture and to prevent overcooking.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet - cook in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and achieve that perfect golden crust.
- For a healthier option, you can bake these pork chops in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 95mg
