These pork chops are juicy and flavorful, cooked with the sweet touch of apple cider. The sauce brings a lovely tang that makes every bite a delight!
I can’t resist how well the cider pairs with the pork—it’s like a tasty hug on your plate. Serve it with some mashed potatoes and you’ve got a comforting dinner ready to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for flavor and moisture. If you have boneless, they will work too, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.
Apple Cider: I recommend using non-alcoholic apple cider for a sweeter profile. If you can’t find it, substitute with unsweetened apple juice mixed with a bit of vinegar for the tang.
Apples: For the apples, I love using Gala or Fuji for their sweet-tart balance. However, you could use other varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith if you want a more tart flavor.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds fragrance to the dish, but dried thyme can be an alternative. Use about one teaspoon if that’s what you have.
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Searing on Pork Chops?
Searing the pork chops gives them a nice crust and locks in moisture. Here’s how to do it right:
- First, make sure your skillet is hot. Preheat it for a couple of minutes before adding oil.
- When the oil shimmers, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet without crowding them (this prevents steaming).
- Leave them undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes until they’re golden brown before flipping.
- Adjust the heat if necessary; you don’t want them to burn!
Practice makes perfect, and soon enough, you’ll have perfectly seared pork chops that impress everyone at your table! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Pork Chops with Apple Cider
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 3 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup apple cider (non-alcoholic)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 medium apples, cored and sliced (preferably a sweet-tart variety like Gala or Fuji)
- 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tablespoon butter
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything until it’s perfectly tender and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their flavor. Set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering but not smoking. Add the pork chops into the skillet and let them sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. Once seared, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant—stir continuously to avoid burning.
4. Make the Cider Sauce:
Pour in the apple cider and apple cider vinegar, stirring to deglaze the pan. This means you’ll want to scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Add the sliced apples and thyme sprigs to the skillet, mixing everything together.
5. Return the Pork Chops:
Now, return the seared pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the cider and apple mixture. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for about 10-15 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the pork to cook through until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Finish the Dish:
When the pork chops are fully cooked and the apples are tender, remove everything from the skillet and place on a plate. Discard the thyme sprigs. Stir in the butter into the remaining sauce in the skillet to give it a rich, glossy finish.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Spoon some of the delicious apple cider sauce and apples over the pork chops. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for a pop of color. Serve immediately with your choice of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just remember to adjust the cooking time, as they may cook faster—start checking for doneness at around 8-10 minutes.
What Type of Apples Should I Use?
For the best flavor, go for a sweet-tart variety like Gala or Fuji. If you want a more tart profile, Granny Smith apples work well too!
Can I Make This Dish A Day Ahead?
Absolutely! You can cook the pork chops and cider sauce in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove to avoid drying out the meat.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of apple cider or water to maintain moisture if needed.
