apple cider pork chops recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
apple cider pork chops recipe
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The Best apple cider pork chops recipe

I’ve been making this apple cider pork chops recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The combination of the tender pork, the sweetness of the apple cider, and the spices is just perfect.

I love how easy it is to make and how versatile it is – we can have it for a special occasion or just a regular weeknight dinner. My kids are always asking for seconds, and my husband raves about it every time.

As for me, I appreciate how healthy it is – the pork is lean, and the apple cider adds a nice touch of sweetness without being too sugary. Plus, it’s so easy to customize with different spices and toppings.

I’ve even made it for potlucks and gatherings, and everyone always asks for the recipe. It’s become one of our go-to comfort foods that never fails to impress.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make – just throw all the ingredients in a pan and let it cook!

My family loves how juicy and flavorful the pork turns out, and I love how much time it saves me on busy weeknights when everyone needs to get fed quickly but still want quality food.

Apple Cider Pork Chops

Apple Cider Pork Chops

4.5 from 1958 votes

Juicy pan-seared pork chops simmered in a sweet and tangy apple cider sauce with fresh herbs. This quick one-pan dinner is perfect for fall and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pork Chops

4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Apple Cider Sauce

1 cup apple cider
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon brown sugar
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1 tablespoon cold butter, cubed

👨‍🍳Directions

1Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides evenly with salt and pepper.
2Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3Place the pork chops in the skillet and sear for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
4Transfer the chops to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
5Reduce the heat to medium and add apple cider, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and fresh thyme to the skillet.
6Stir and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom, then let the sauce simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens slightly and reduces by about half.
7Remove the thyme sprigs and whisk in the cold butter cubes until the sauce is smooth and glossy.
8Return the pork chops to the skillet, spoon the sauce over them, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to reheat.
9Serve the pork chops immediately with the apple cider sauce drizzled on top.
10Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Tongs
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 680mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 14g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

For best results, use bone-in pork chops about 1 inch thick to prevent drying out. If the sauce is too thin, simmer a few extra minutes until it coats the back of a spoon.

Watch Video Of How Apple Cider Pork Chops Works

This apple cider pork chops recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting guests or just need a quick weeknight dinner. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make and reheats beautifully for leftovers. For storage ideas, consider refrigerating cooked pork chops in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freezing them in individual portions for up to 3 months.

When reheating leftovers, make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cider Pork Chops

Q: What type of pork chops should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, you’ll want to use thick-cut pork chops – preferably boneless. Look for ones that are at least 1 inch thick to ensure they stay juicy during cooking.

Q: Can I substitute other types of sweetener for the apple cider?

While apple cider gives this recipe its unique flavor, you can experiment with other sweeteners like honey or maple syrup if you prefer a different taste. Keep in mind that using these alternatives will change the flavor profile slightly.

Q: Do I need to marinate the pork chops before cooking?

No marinating is required for this recipe – simply mix all the ingredients together in a pan and let them cook! However, if you prefer a more intense flavor, feel free to marinate the pork chops in your favorite seasonings before cooking.

Q: Can I serve this dish as an entree or side dish?

This recipe works beautifully as both an entree or side dish. If serving as an entree, pair it with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. As a side dish, consider pairing it with grilled meats or roasted chicken.

Q: How do I store leftover cooked pork chops?

Cool leftover cooked pork chops within 2 hours of cooking and refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below within 2 hours of cooling. Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

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