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Grilled pork chops are a classic dish that captures the essence of summer barbecues and cozy family dinners alike. Their savory, juicy texture combined with the right marinade can transform a simple meal into a culinary experience. Among the myriad of flavor combinations, the pairing of maple syrup and Dijon mustard stands out as a distinctive choice that tantalizes the taste buds. This recipe for Maple Dijon Grilled Pork Chops marries these two ingredients, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or backyard barbecues.

Maple Dijon Grilled Pork Chops

Discover the perfect summer dish with Maple Dijon Grilled Pork Chops! This flavorful recipe combines sweet maple syrup and tangy Dijon mustard to create juicy, tender pork chops that are easy to prepare. Ideal for weeknight dinners or backyard barbecues, this dish elevates your grilling game with its delicious marinade and simple techniques. Serve with charred veggies or creamy mashed potatoes for a delightful meal that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy a taste of summer with every bite!

Ingredients
  

4 bone-in pork chops (about ¾ inch thick)

¼ cup pure maple syrup

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)

Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Marinade: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well combined, ensuring the flavors are evenly distributed.

    Marinade the Pork Chops: Place the pork chops in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, although marinating for up to 4 hours is recommended for enhanced flavor.

      Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F. For charcoal grills, arrange the coals so they are evenly distributed and they have developed a gray ash for optimal cooking.

        Oil the Grill Grates: Before placing the pork chops on the grill, brush the grates with olive oil to reduce sticking and promote nice grill marks.

          Grill the Chops: Take the pork chops out of the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off, and discard the leftover marinade. Place the chops on the grill and cook them for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safe eating.

            Rest the Chops: After grilling, transfer the pork chops to a cutting board and let them rest for at least 5 minutes. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful bite.

              Serve: Optionally garnish the pork chops with fresh thyme sprigs for a touch of elegance. Pair the grilled chops with your favorite sides, such as charred vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes. For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle any remaining sauce from the marinade over the chops before serving.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 1 hour 15 minutes (including marinade time) | 4 servings