These Apple Cider Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor! The sweet and tangy apple cider sauce adds a nice twist to the tender pork. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
I love how simple it is to make this dish. Just cook the chops, pour on the cider sauce, and watch the smiles at the dinner table. Pair it with some mashed potatoes for a great meal! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are best for moist meat, but boneless works too! If you want a leaner option, you can use chicken breasts and adjust cooking time as chicken cooks faster.
Apple Cider: Aim for unfiltered apple cider for more flavor. If it’s not available, you can use regular apple juice, but it may lack that robust taste. Consider adding a splash of lemon juice for extra tang!
Chicken Broth: Homemade is great if you have it, but store-bought is just fine. For a vegetarian twist, use vegetable broth instead!
Fresh Thyme: Fresh is preferred for its vibrant flavor, but dried thyme can work in a pinch—just use about a third of the amount as dried herbs are stronger.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
To keep your pork chops juicy, focus on a few key cooking techniques. Here’s what to do:
- Start with dry chops to get a good sear. Patting them dry helps the seasoning stick and promotes browning.
- Sear on medium-high heat for that perfect golden crust, but don’t overcook! Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- After cooking, let them rest covered with foil. This allows juices to redistribute for tender bites!
By following these steps, you’ll have delicious, juicy pork chops every time! Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
How to Make Apple Cider Pork Chops
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
- 1 cup apple cider (unfiltered if possible)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Optional: 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water for thickening the sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 15-20 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick yet impressive dish perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear properly. Then, season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until they get a nice golden-brown crust. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and cover them loosely with foil to keep them warm.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and fresh thyme leaves. Sauté for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant. This will infuse great flavors into the dish!
4. Add Cider and Broth:
Carefully pour in the apple cider, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the pan. This is where a lot of flavors come from!
5. Simmer the Sauce:
Stir in the Dijon mustard and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch slurry and cook for another minute or two until thickened.
6. Finish the Sauce:
Take the skillet off the heat, and add the butter to the sauce, stirring until it has melted and created a glossy finish.
7. Combine with Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them to coat evenly.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your pork chops with extra sprigs of fresh thyme and serve immediately. They pair wonderfully with sides like roasted potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Enjoy deliciously tender pork chops glazed with a tangy, slightly sweet apple cider sauce. Your family and friends will love this dish!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just reduce the cooking time slightly, as they tend to cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I Substitute Apple Cider with Something Else?
Absolutely! If you don’t have apple cider, you can use apple juice or a mix of apple juice with a splash of vinegar for acidity. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Add a little sauce or broth to keep them moist while reheating.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Skillet?
Yes! Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or apples during the sauce-making process can enhance the dish. Just sauté them after the garlic and before adding the cider to ensure they cook nicely!
