Apple Cider Pork Chops are a tasty and easy dish! Juicy pork chops are cooked with sweet apple cider and seasonings that make your mouth water. It’s a perfect mix of savory and sweet.
Cooking this dish feels a bit like a cozy fall day, even if it’s summer! I love serving it with mashed potatoes to soak up all the yummy sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest! 🍏🍖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and help keep the meat juicy. You can substitute with boneless chops, but reduce cooking time slightly as they cook faster.
Apple Cider: For a robust taste, opt for unfiltered apple cider. If unavailable, apple juice works in a pinch but will be sweeter, so you may want to reduce the brown sugar.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice tang to the dish. If you prefer a milder taste, yellow mustard can be a suitable alternative.
Thyme: Fresh thyme is great for flavor. If you only have dried, remember the rule—1 teaspoon dried equals 3 teaspoons fresh, so use just a bit less!
How Do You Get Juicy Pork Chops Every Time?
Achieving juicy pork chops starts with proper seasoning and searing. Here’s how to do it right:
- Pat the chops dry to help them sear nicely. Wet meat can steam instead of brown!
- Don’t rush the searing process. Aim for a golden crust by cooking on medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Use a meat thermometer! The perfect internal temperature is 145°F (63°C), ensuring they are cooked but still juicy.
For added moisture, simmering in the apple cider sauce infuses flavor while finishing cooking gently. Following these tips will give you tender, succulent pork chops every time!
Apple Cider Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup apple cider (unfiltered if possible for more flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25-30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping, and the cooking part will take about 15-20 minutes—so it’s quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Pork Chops:
First, pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. This helps bring out the flavor and gets them nice and crispy!
2. Sear the Chops:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Then, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Add Garlic and Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and toss the minced garlic into the same skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring until it smells amazing! Then, stir in the apple cider, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and thyme. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to pick up any tasty bits.
4. Simmer the Pork Chops:
Now, return the pork chops to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let them simmer for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Finish the Sauce:
Once the pork chops are nicely cooked, take them out of the skillet and place them on a serving plate. Increase the heat to medium-high and let the sauce simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to reduce it slightly.
6. Add the Final Touch:
Stir in the butter to the sauce until it’s melted and shiny. Pour this delicious sauce over the pork chops, making sure each chop gets a generous helping.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Lastly, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately. Enjoy these juicy pork chops with the delightful apple cider sauce!
Your meal is complete! These Apple Cider Pork Chops are savory, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes! Boneless pork chops can be used for this recipe. Just be aware that they will cook faster, so check for doneness around the 6-8 minute mark to avoid overcooking.
Can I Substitute Apple Cider with Something Else?
Absolutely! If you don’t have apple cider, you can use apple juice as an alternative. However, reduce the brown sugar a little since apple juice is typically sweeter.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of apple cider to keep them moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes! Feel free to add sliced apples, onions, or even root vegetables to the skillet along with the pork chops for a complete one-pan meal. Just adjust the cooking time for the vegetables accordingly.
