Name: Apple Cider Pork Chops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick); 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 cup apple cider (not vinegar); ½ cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (for balance); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening); 1 apple (thinly sliced (optional, for garnish))

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Apple Cider Pork Chops: A Flavorful and Cozy Dinner Recipe

There’s something truly special about the combination of sweet and savory flavors, especially when it comes to pork chops. Apple cider, with its crisp, slightly tart sweetness, makes the perfect companion for tender, juicy pork chops, creating a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor.

This recipe is a perfect choice for a cozy dinner, whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal or something a bit special for the weekend.

The best part? This dish is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients to achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

If you love meals that feel hearty yet sophisticated, this apple cider pork chop recipe is for you. With just one pan and about 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table.

Why You’ll Love It

Perfect balance of flavors: The sweetness of apple cider complements the savory richness of the pork chops, creating a beautifully balanced dish.
Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Versatile pairing: Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Seasonal delight: Ideal for fall, but delicious all year round!

Ingredient List

For the Pork Chops:

4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)

1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Apple Cider Sauce:

1 cup apple cider (not vinegar)
½ cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (for balance)

1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
1 apple, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)

Kitchen Tools Needed

Large skillet or cast-iron pan – For searing the pork chops and creating a flavorful sauce.

Tongs – To easily flip the pork chops without puncturing them.
Measuring cups and spoons – For accurately measuring ingredients.
Whisk – To mix the sauce smoothly and incorporate flavors evenly.

Cutting board and knife – For slicing apples and prepping ingredients.
Small bowl – To mix cornstarch with water if you need to thicken the sauce.
Meat thermometer (optional) – To ensure the pork chops are cooked perfectly to 145°F.

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. This step enhances the flavor and helps create a beautiful crust when seared.

Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove them from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Apple Cider Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in the apple cider and chicken broth. Use a whisk to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add Dijon mustard, maple syrup, cinnamon, and apple cider vinegar, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Slowly whisk it into the sauce and let it simmer until thickened.

Step 5: Return the Pork Chops to the Pan

Place the seared pork chops back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let them cook for another 5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the pork chops from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with thinly sliced apples and serve with your favorite sides!

Tips and Tricks for Success

Choose the right pork chops – Bone-in pork chops tend to be juicier, but boneless ones work well too. Just be mindful of cooking times.
Pat the pork chops dry – This helps them develop a better sear and prevents steaming.
Don’t overcrowd the pan – Searing works best when the pork chops have enough space. If needed, cook them in batches.

Deglaze the pan properly – Scrape up the browned bits when adding the apple cider for extra depth of flavor.
Adjust the sweetness – If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the maple syrup or honey.
Use a meat thermometer – To avoid overcooking, check that the pork reaches 145°F before removing it from the heat.

Let the pork chops rest – Allowing them to rest for a few minutes before serving helps retain their juices and tenderness.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

Apple cider: Swap with unsweetened apple juice if needed.
Chicken broth: Use vegetable broth or water in a pinch.

Dijon mustard: Yellow mustard or whole-grain mustard can work.
Maple syrup: Honey or brown sugar are great alternatives.
Cornstarch: Replace with flour or arrowroot powder for thickening.

Variations

Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Herb twist: Fresh rosemary or sage can enhance the flavor.
Creamy sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.

Extra apples: Add more apple slices for a stronger apple flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Mashed potatoes – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Roasted Brussels sprouts – Adds a delicious crunch.

Steamed green beans – A light and fresh side option.
Crispy roasted potatoes – A great alternative to mashed potatoes.
Wild rice or quinoa – For a wholesome, hearty meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage: Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of apple cider or broth.
Freezing: Freeze cooked pork chops for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use boneless pork chops? Yes, boneless pork chops work well in this recipe. Just be mindful that they cook a bit faster than bone-in chops, so keep an eye on the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
How do I prevent dry pork chops? The key to juicy pork chops is not overcooking them. Use a meat thermometer and remove the chops from heat when they reach 145°F (63°C). Letting them rest for a few minutes before serving also helps retain moisture.
Can I make this in the oven? Absolutely! Sear the pork chops in an oven-safe skillet, then transfer them to a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes or until they reach 145°F. You can simmer the apple cider sauce separately on the stovetop and pour it over before serving.

What’s the best apple cider to use? Use fresh apple cider (not apple cider vinegar) for the best flavor. Look for one without added sugars or preservatives for a more natural taste.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes! Just make sure to use gluten-free chicken broth and, if thickening the sauce, use cornstarch instead of flour.
Can I meal prep this? Yes! Cook the pork chops and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce can be made ahead and stored separately, then reheated together when ready to serve.

How can I make it dairy-free? Simply replace the butter with additional olive oil or a dairy-free alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally dairy-free.
What other proteins work with this sauce? This apple cider sauce pairs well with chicken breasts or thighs, turkey cutlets, and even salmon for a sweet-savory twist.

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me (@tasiahub_) or use the hashtag (#tasiahub). I’d love to see your creations!

Apple Cider Pork Chops

As the seasons change, there’s no better way to embrace the flavors of fall than by incorporating apples into your cooking. The rich, caramelized notes of apple cider, paired with the savory depth of seared pork chops, create an irresistible balance of flavors. The best part? This dish is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients to achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

Large Skillet or Cast-Iron Pan
Tongs

Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Cutting Board and Knife

Small bowl
Meat thermometer (optional)