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These crockpot maple dijon pork chops create the perfect harmony of sweet and tangy flavors while requiring minimal hands-on preparation. The slow cooking process transforms ordinary pork chops into fork-tender morsels that practically melt in your mouth, making this a standout weeknight dinner option that feels special enough for weekend entertaining.
I discovered this recipe during a particularly busy season when my family needed comforting meals but I had little time to cook. The aroma that filled our home had everyone eagerly awaiting dinner, and it's since become our go-to for both easy weeknight meals and casual entertaining.
Ingredients
- Pork chops: Choose thicker cuts (at least 1-inch) with some marbling for the juiciest results
- Maple syrup: Use pure maple syrup rather than pancake syrup for a rich, authentic flavor
- Dijon mustard: Provides tanginess and depth that balances the sweetness perfectly
- Chicken broth: Creates moisture for the slow cooking process and adds savory notes
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the meat
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic flavor
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors
- Fresh thyme: Optional but adds a sophisticated herbal note to finish the dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the Pork Chops:
- Take each pork chop and generously season both sides with salt and pepper. This initial seasoning is crucial as it creates the first layer of flavor that will develop during cooking. Place the seasoned chops in a single layer at the bottom of your crockpot.
- Prepare the Maple Dijon Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, combine the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic. Whisk these ingredients together until completely smooth and well incorporated. The sauce should have a glossy appearance with a light amber color from the maple syrup.
- Combine and Cook:
- Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the pork chops in the crockpot, ensuring each chop is well coated. Cover with the lid and set your crockpot to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer, slower cooking option generally produces more tender results, but both methods work well depending on your schedule.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Once cooking is complete, carefully transfer the pork chops to a serving platter. The meat should be extremely tender, so use a wide spatula for support. Spoon the sauce from the crockpot over the pork chops and garnish with fresh thyme leaves for a beautiful presentation and aromatic finish.
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This recipe has saved countless dinner times in my household, especially the maple syrup component. I always keep a bottle of pure maple syrup in my pantry specifically for cooking rather than just breakfast. The depth it adds to savory dishes like these pork chops creates an almost gourmet result with minimal effort.
Making Ahead and Storage
These maple dijon pork chops reheat beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually continue to develop overnight, so many people find they taste even better the next day. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture and heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until just warmed through to avoid toughening the meat.
Perfect Pairings
The sweet and tangy flavor profile of these pork chops pairs wonderfully with simple sides that won't compete with the flavorful sauce. Mashed potatoes or buttered rice make excellent companions as they soak up the delicious sauce. For vegetables, consider roasted Brussels sprouts, steamed green beans, or a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette. The earthiness of these vegetables creates a beautiful contrast to the sweet and tangy pork.
Troubleshooting Tips
Achieving perfectly cooked pork chops in a slow cooker can sometimes be tricky, but a few simple adjustments can help. If your pork chops tend to dry out, try using bone-in chops which retain moisture better. For a thicker sauce, remove the pork chops once cooked and transfer the liquid to a saucepan. Simmer it for 5-10 minutes to reduce, or whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) and heat until thickened before pouring back over the meat.
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These pork chops are a guaranteed family favorite with minimal effort, making them perfect for busy days or entertaining guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use bone-in pork chops for this dish?
Yes, both boneless and bone-in pork chops work well in this recipe. Bone-in chops typically have more flavor, while boneless are easier to eat. Just note that bone-in chops might need the longer end of the cooking time range to become perfectly tender.
- → What can I substitute for maple syrup?
If you don't have maple syrup, you can substitute honey or brown sugar mixed with a tablespoon of water. The flavor profile will be slightly different but still delicious. For a lower-sugar version, try a sugar-free maple-flavored syrup.
- → What side dishes pair well with maple Dijon pork chops?
These pork chops pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. The sweet-tangy sauce also goes well with wild rice or quinoa to absorb the delicious flavors.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce mixture the night before and refrigerate it separately. In the morning, place the pork chops in the crockpot, pour the sauce over them, and start cooking. Alternatively, fully cooked pork chops can be refrigerated for 3-4 days and reheated.
- → How thick should the pork chops be for this recipe?
Medium-thickness pork chops (about 1-inch thick) work best in the crockpot. Very thin chops may cook too quickly and become dry, while extremely thick chops might need additional cooking time.
- → Can I thicken the sauce after cooking?
Absolutely! If you prefer a thicker sauce, transfer the liquid to a saucepan after cooking. Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water, add to the sauce, and simmer until thickened. Pour over the pork chops before serving.