Sweet & Savory Maple Glazed Pork Chops Recipe for Dinner Magic

Let’s talk about these mouthwatering maple glazed pork chops that will make your dinner table buzz with excitement.

Sweet and savory flavors dance together in this simple yet elegant dish.

Thick-cut pork chops receive a luxurious coating of pure maple syrup and complementary spices.

A quick marinade ensures each bite bursts with rich, caramelized goodness.

Crispy edges and a juicy interior guarantee a meal that impresses without complicated techniques.

Seasonal herbs add a fresh twist to this classic protein.

You’ll want to bookmark this recipe for your next weekend feast.

Recipe Ideas with Maple Pork Chops

• Honey Bourbon Swap: Replace maple syrup with honey for a richer, deeper sweetness and use whiskey instead of bourbon for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Herb-Crusted Version: Coat pork chops with fresh thyme, rosemary, and sage before searing to add an aromatic herbal dimension to the dish.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use coconut aminos instead of Dijon mustard and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
• Vegan Alternative: Substitute pork chops with thick-cut portobello mushrooms or firm tofu, using the same maple glaze technique for a plant-based version that maintains the original recipe's rich flavor profile.

FAQs

• Why should I brine the pork chops?

Brining helps the meat retain moisture, making the pork chops more tender and flavorful by allowing salt to penetrate the meat and break down proteins.

• Can I substitute bourbon in the glaze?

Yes, you can replace bourbon with apple juice or chicken broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. The goal is to add depth and complexity to the maple glaze.

• How do I know when the pork chops are perfectly cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The pork chops are done when they reach 145°F (63°C), which ensures they are safe to eat while remaining juicy and tender.

• What type of skillet works best for this recipe?

A cast-iron skillet is ideal because it provides even heat distribution and creates a beautiful golden-brown crust on the pork chops, enhancing their flavor and texture.

Why Maple Glazed Pork Chops Are a Hit

• Unlock gourmet restaurant-quality flavors with this surprisingly simple maple glazed pork chop recipe that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary meal.
• Flexible recipe allows optional brining for extra tenderness and can be adapted with or without bourbon, making it perfect for different taste preferences and ingredient availability.
• Sweet maple syrup combined with tangy Dijon mustard and rich bourbon creates a complex, irresistible glaze that appeals to both adults and children, ensuring everyone at the table will be satisfied.
• Minimal ingredients and straightforward cooking technique mean you can prepare a delicious, impressive main course in less than half an hour, perfect for busy families and home cooks seeking maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Maple Pork Chop Ingredients

• Pork Chops: Tender cuts of meat perfect for a flavorful main dish.
• Maple Syrup: Sweet, rich syrup that creates a delicious glaze.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds tangy depth to the maple glaze.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasonings for enhancing meat flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Provides subtle, aromatic seasoning.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds bright, tangy notes to the glaze.
• Bourbon (Optional): Introduces complex, rich undertones to the glaze.

• Vegetable Oil: Helps create a perfect golden-brown sear on the pork chops.
• Water: Used for optional brining process.
• Sugar: Optional ingredient for brining to enhance moisture and flavor.

How to Cook Maple Pork Chops

Step 1: Brine the Pork Chops (Optional)

Create a flavor-boosting bath for your pork chops by dissolving salt and sugar in water.

Submerge the meat and let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 2 hours, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat

Remove pork chops from the brine and gently pat them dry with paper towels.

If you skipped the brining, simply dry the chops thoroughly.

Step 3: Season Generously

Sprinkle both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper, ensuring an even coating that will enhance the meat’s natural flavors.

Step 4: Whip Up the Maple Glaze

• Maple syrup
• Dijon mustard
• Bourbon (optional)
• Apple cider vinegar
• Garlic powder

Step 5: Reduce the Glaze

Simmer the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Watch as it transforms into a thick, syrupy goodness, reducing by about one-third (roughly 5-7 minutes).

Set the glaze aside for later.

Step 6: Heat the Skillet

Fire up a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.

Add a touch of vegetable oil to create the perfect searing surface.

Step 7: Sear the Pork Chops

Once the oil is sizzling hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet.

Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust.

Step 8: Glaze with Love

Lower the heat to medium-low.

Generously brush the pork chops with the maple glaze, coating them in sweet and tangy deliciousness.

Step 9: Finish Cooking

Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes per side, frequently brushing with glaze.

Keep an eye on the internal temperature – you’re aiming for 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.

Step 10: Rest and Relax

Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes.

This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.

Step 11: Final Flourish

Drizzle any remaining glaze over the pork chops, creating a stunning finish that will make mouths water.

Serve immediately and watch everyone’s eyes light up with delight.

Maple Pork Chop Cooking Tips

• Soaking pork chops in a salt-sugar solution for 30 minutes to 2 hours ensures incredibly tender and flavorful meat that stays moist during cooking.
• Simmer the maple mixture until it reduces and thickens, creating a glossy, concentrated sauce that caramelizes beautifully on the pork chops.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 145°F to guarantee perfectly cooked, safe-to-eat pork without drying out the meat.
• Choose a high smoke-point oil like vegetable or canola to achieve a golden-brown sear without burning the skillet's surface or the meat.
• Allow pork chops to rest for 5 minutes after cooking, which helps redistribute juices and lets the glaze set, creating a stunning final presentation.

Store Pork Chops Properly

• Transfer cooled pork chops to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover completely to prevent drying out and maintain moisture.
• Wrap individual pork chops tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date to track freshness.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Place pork chops in a baking dish, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying. Cover with foil and warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Place pork chops on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature to avoid overcooking. Stop when internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Pork Chop Pairing Suggestions

• Pair Sweet Bourbon Cider with Maple Glazed Pork Chops: A crisp hard apple cider spiked with bourbon creates a harmonious flavor match that echoes the maple and bourbon notes in the glaze.
• Complement with Roasted Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy roasted sweet potatoes with a hint of cinnamon provide a soft, caramelized side that beautifully balances the savory and sweet pork chop glaze.
• Serve Alongside Maple Pecan Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with toasted pecans and a light maple drizzle create a nutty, caramelized vegetable side that mirrors the glaze's flavor profile.
• Enhance with Crisp Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad dressed with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pork chops, adding a fresh, bright contrast to the meal.

Maple Glazed Pork Chops Recipe

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4.6 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent maple glazed pork chops bring sweet Canadian maple magic to your dinner plate. Bold flavors mingle with caramelized edges, promising a simple yet elegant meal you’ll savor with pure culinary delight.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick, about 8 ounces / 226 grams each)

Glaze and Flavor Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) bourbon (optional)
• 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) vegetable oil for cooking
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Brine Ingredients (optional):

• 1/4 cup (60 grams) salt
• 1/4 cup (50 grams) sugar
• 4 cups (960 milliliters) water

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Instructions

1. Enhance pork chops’ flavor and tenderness by immersing them in a salt and sugar brine for 30 minutes to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
2. Carefully remove chops from brine and thoroughly pat dry with paper towels, ensuring surface moisture is eliminated.
3. Generously season both sides of the pork chops with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. Craft the maple glaze by whisking together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder in a small saucepan.
5. Simmer the glaze over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring periodically until the mixture reduces and thickens to a syrupy consistency.
6. Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil to create a perfect searing environment.
7. Carefully place seasoned pork chops into the hot skillet, searing for 3-4 minutes on each side until a rich golden-brown crust develops.
8. Lower the heat to medium-low and liberally brush the chops with the prepared maple glaze.
9. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes per side, repeatedly basting with glaze and monitoring the internal temperature until it reaches 145°F.
10. Transfer the glazed pork chops from the skillet and allow them to rest for 5 minutes, enabling the juices to redistribute.
11. Finish by drizzling any remaining glaze over the rested pork chops, enhancing their final presentation and flavor profile.

Notes

• Brining boosts moisture and tenderness, preventing dry pork chops during cooking.
• Use bone-in chops for richer flavor and more juicy results, especially thick-cut versions.
• Control heat carefully to avoid burning the maple glaze, which caramelizes quickly due to sugar content.
• Substitute bourbon with apple juice or chicken stock for alcohol-free version if needed.

• Prep Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 405
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 615 mg
• Fat: 21 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg