Apple Cider Pork Chops are a tasty and juicy dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners. The pork chops soak in sweet apple cider, creating a delicious flavor that’s hard to resist!
Honestly, there’s something magical about the combo of pork and apples. I often serve it with mashed potatoes—it’s a hit every time! 🍏🍽️ You’ll love how easy it is to make this family favorite.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and stay juicy. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work too. Just adjust cooking time, as they may cook faster.
Apple Cider: Use real apple cider for the sweet flavor. If it’s out of season, you can substitute with apple juice, but it won’t have quite the same depth. Some like adding a splash of maple syrup for extra sweetness!
Onion and Garlic: Yellow onion brings sweetness when sautéed, and fresh garlic adds a nice zing. Red onion can be used too for a milder taste, but fresh ingredients always bring the best flavor.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a tangy element to the sauce. If you don’t have it, try using whole grain mustard for some texture, or even a bit of regular yellow mustard works in a pinch!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
Getting that golden brown crust on pork chops is essential for great flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Dry the Chops: Pat the pork chops with paper towels to remove moisture, allowing for better browning.
- Preheat the Skillet: Ensure your skillet is nice and hot before adding oil. This helps create that sought-after sear.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: If you’re cooking multiple chops, do it in batches. Overcrowding can lower the pan’s temperature, resulting in steaming rather than searing.
- Let Them Rest: After cooking, tent them with foil. This keeps them warm while allowing juices to redistribute, keeping them juicy.
Feel confident, and soon you’ll have perfectly seared, delightful pork chops!
How to Make Apple Cider Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup apple cider (not vinegar, the sweet kind)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes to cook. Total time is roughly 30 minutes, making it a quick and tasty dinner option that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is important as it helps the chops brown nicely. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor of the meat.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are well-browned and have reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). After cooking, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside, covering them loosely with foil to keep them warm.
3. Make the Sauce Base:
With the skillet still over medium heat, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, which should take about 3 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it’s fragrant and delicious.
4. Add Cider and Broth:
Pour in the apple cider and chicken broth, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to pick up all the tasty browned bits—this adds so much flavor! Stir in the thyme, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar, then let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it reduces by half.
5. Combine and Heat Through:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Cook for an extra 2 minutes to heat the chops through and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Finish with Butter:
Once done, turn off the heat and stir in the unsalted butter until it melts into the sauce, creating a glossy finish.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the pork chops and generously spoon the savory apple cider sauce on top. For an added touch, garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. These chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables—enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine in this recipe. Just be mindful that they typically cook faster than bone-in chops, so check for doneness a few minutes earlier!
Can I Substitute Apple Cider with Something Else?
If you can’t find apple cider, apple juice can be a great substitute, though it will be a bit sweeter. You could also mix apple juice with a splash of vinegar to mimic the flavor of cider better.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little broth or water to keep the pork moist.
What Can I Pair This Dish With?
This dish goes beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. It can also be served with a light salad for a refreshing contrast to the sweet and savory pork chops!
