Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·Leave a Review

Grilling season is the perfect time to upgrade your backyard meals with bold flavors and juicy textures, and these Honey Mustard Grilled Pork Chops are exactly what you need to impress. This recipe blends the richness of pure honey with the tang of whole grain mustard and apple cider vinegar, creating a balanced glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Each bite is tender, sweet, savory, and just a little spicy, thanks to a pinch of cayenne and the depth of brown sugar.

Unlike many pork recipes that can result in dry or bland results, this one ensures moist, flavorful chops with a sauce that doubles as both a marinade and a finishing glaze. The bone-in pork chops help retain juiciness, and when grilled to perfection, they develop a gorgeous char that locks in all the flavor.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout, these grilled pork chops are easy to prepare and impossible to forget. Pair them with your favorite grilled veggies, a summer salad, or roasted potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will crave.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Balanced Sweet and Tangy Flavor – The combination of honey and mustard hits every note.
Beautiful Grill Marks and Char – Perfect for summer BBQs or backyard dinners.
Quick and Easy Prep – Simple ingredients, minimal prep time, and fast cooking.
Juicy and Tender – Bone-in pork chops retain moisture for optimal texture.
Versatile Pairings – Pairs well with a wide variety of sides and sauces.

Ingredients

Apple cider vinegar
Cornstarch
Pure honey
Whole grain mustard (with seeds)
Onion powder
Cayenne pepper
Brown sugar (packed)
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)

Variations

Boneless Pork Chops: Use boneless chops if you prefer leaner meat—just reduce grill time slightly.
Maple Mustard Glaze: Swap honey for maple syrup for a deeper sweetness.
Add Herbs: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme into the glaze for an herby twist.
Spicy Kick: Increase cayenne or add crushed red pepper flakes for more heat.
Oven-Baked Version: If you don’t have a grill, bake the chops and finish under the broiler for caramelization.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce

In a small saucepan, whisk together apple cider vinegar and cornstarch until smooth. Add honey, whole grain mustard, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until thickened, about 3–5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high (about 400°F). Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Season the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 4: Grill the Pork Chops

Place the pork chops on the grill and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F. Brush with the honey mustard glaze during the last 1–2 minutes of grilling for extra caramelization.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve with remaining honey mustard glaze on the side.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t skip the resting time—it helps the juices redistribute and keeps the pork moist.
Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; 145°F is the perfect target.
Glaze near the end to avoid burning the sugars in the sauce.
For thicker chops, use indirect heat after searing to cook through.
Let the glaze cool slightly before brushing for a thicker coating.

How to Serve

With Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, or corn make great companions.
Classic BBQ Plate: Add baked beans, slaw, and cornbread for a full Southern-style meal.
Over a Salad: Slice and serve atop a bed of greens with a mustard vinaigrette.
With Roasted Potatoes: A hearty, comforting side that complements the sweet-savory flavor.
As a Sandwich: Slice thin and serve on a bun with pickles and extra glaze.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Wrap grilled pork chops tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in a 300°F oven until warmed through. Brush with extra glaze to refresh the flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless pork chops?

Yes, just reduce the cooking time slightly as boneless chops cook faster.

2. What type of mustard works best?

Whole grain mustard adds great texture, but Dijon also works for a smoother sauce.

3. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store in the fridge for up to a week and warm before using.

4. How do I keep the pork from drying out?

Don’t overcook—use a thermometer and let the meat rest after grilling.

5. Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild heat. You can adjust the cayenne to your taste.

6. Can I use the glaze as a marinade?

Yes, just reserve some for basting to avoid cross-contamination.

7. What kind of vinegar should I use?

Apple cider vinegar adds great depth, but white wine vinegar is a good substitute.

8. Do I need to brine the pork chops?

Not necessary, but a short brine can make them even juicier.

9. Can I grill these indoors?

Yes, use a grill pan or cast iron skillet on the stovetop.

10. Can I make this without sugar?

You can reduce or omit the brown sugar, but it will alter the sweetness and caramelization.

Conclusion

These Honey Mustard Grilled Pork Chops are a surefire way to impress guests or elevate a casual dinner. The rich glaze brings together sweet, tangy, and spicy elements that enhance the pork’s natural flavor and make grilling exciting again. With simple prep and irresistible results, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your summer grilling lineup. Don’t forget the extra glaze—it’s gold.