These pork chops cooked in apple cider are a perfect mix of sweet and savory. The juicy meat combined with the rich apple flavor makes each bite a treat!
Cooking with apple cider gives the dish a delightful twist. I love serving it with mashed potatoes—all that yummy sauce is great for dipping! Who can resist? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are perfect here as the bone adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy. If you prefer, boneless chops also work, just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out faster.
Apple Cider: This is the star ingredient! If you’re out of apple cider, you can use apple juice, but it won’t be as rich in flavor. Adding a splash of vinegar boosts the tartness.
Onion: I love using yellow onions for their sweetness; however, red onions would bring a nice color and milder flavor. Sweet onions like Vidalia can also be a great option.
Apples: I recommend using sweeter apples, like Fuji or Gala. If you want more tartness, Granny Smith apples add a nice balance. Pears can also be used for a fun twist!
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky, but I have some tips to help you out. Start by making sure your meat is at room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat, then add oil and sear chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Once browned, lower the heat and let them simmer in the sauce (this keeps the pork juicy). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—145°F is perfect!
- Let the chops rest a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them even more tender.
Pork Chops with Apple Cider
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium apples (such as Fuji or Gala), cored and sliced
- 1 cup apple cider (unfiltered apple juice)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, plus extra sprigs for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a touch of tang)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes approximately 10 minutes for prep and about 25-30 minutes for cooking. You’ll have tender, flavorful pork chops on the table in about 40 minutes, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels to help them sear nicely. Season both sides with a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. This will enhance their flavor and help create a delicious crust!
2. Searing the Chops:
In a large cast-iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear the chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside for now.
3. Cooking the Onions:
Next, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Let it melt, then toss in the sliced onions. Cook them until they’re softened and caramelized, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to stir them occasionally for even cooking.
4. Adding Garlic and Apples:
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until the aroma fills your kitchen. After that, add the apple slices and cook them for 3-4 minutes, stirring gently until they begin to soften and turn slightly golden.
5. Creating the Sauce:
Now it’s time to pour in the apple cider and chicken broth! As you do, scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to lift all those delicious browned bits. This adds extra flavor to your sauce.
6. Simmering:
Stir in the fresh thyme leaves, ground cinnamon (if using), and apple cider vinegar (if using) for a bit of tang. Bring the whole mixture to a gentle simmer to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.
7. Finishing Cooking the Chops:
Return the seared pork chops back to the skillet, placing them among the apples and onions. Cover the pan, lower the heat, and let everything simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes. You want the pork to be cooked through to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Serving:
Once cooked, carefully remove the pork chops to a plate and cover them with foil to keep warm. If you like a thicker sauce, increase the heat to medium-high, stir in the cornstarch slurry, and cook for a minute or two until it thickens.
9. Final Touches:
Pour the luscious sauce with the apples and onions over the pork chops. For a beautiful finish, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs before serving. Enjoy every bite!
This Pork Chops with Apple Cider recipe pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, making for a comforting and fulfilling meal. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind they will cook faster than bone-in chops, so be sure to monitor them closely to prevent drying out. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Apple Cider?
If you don’t have apple cider, apple juice can work as a substitute, though it will have a milder flavor. For a richer taste, you can mix the juice with a little bit of vinegar or lemon juice for acidity.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth to keep them moist, or use the microwave in short intervals.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and sear the pork chops ahead of time. Just refrigerate them separately and combine them when ready to serve. Simply simmer the chops in the sauce until heated through before serving.
