These tender pork chops with apples are a warm and tasty dish! The juicy chops pair perfectly with sweet, soft apples, making dinner a true comfort meal.
Just thinking about this dish makes my mouth water! I love how easy it is to make—just sear the chops, then let the apples work their magic. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops add flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work too, though they may cook faster. You might also use other cuts like pork loin.
Apples: Granny Smith apples bring tartness, while Honeycrisp offers sweetness. You can mix these or use any variety you prefer. Just avoid very soft apples as they won’t hold up during cooking.
Onion: Slicing a medium onion adds depth to the dish. Sweet onions, like Vidalia, are a great substitution for a milder taste. If you’re short on time, pre-diced onion saves effort.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth gives the dish moisture and flavor. If you want a sweeter taste, swap it for apple cider or use low-sodium chicken broth for less saltiness. Homemade broth is also fantastic!
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely aroma. If fresh is not available, dried thyme works well. Just remember, dried herbs are stronger, so use less, about a third of the amount.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Searing Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops is vital for a delicious crust and juicy interior. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot! Preheat it to medium-high before adding oil.
- Let the pork chops sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t crowd the pan! Cook in batches if needed to ensure proper browning.
- Leave the chops undisturbed for the first 4-5 minutes to get a nice crust. Flip them only once.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for 145°F (63°C) for juicy pork.
With these tips, your pork chops will be golden brown and tender, giving you a dish to remember!
How to Make Tender Pork Chops with Apples
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (or apple cider for a sweeter flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending all evening in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will help enhance their flavor as they cook, making them deliciously savory!
2. Searing the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned pork chops and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. When done, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sautéing the Apples and Onions:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, sliced apples, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté these ingredients for 3-4 minutes until the apples and onions start to soften and become fragrant.
4. Mixing the Broth and Seasonings:
Pour in the chicken broth (or apple cider if you want a sweeter taste) and stir in the thyme and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This step will create a nice sauce for the pork chops!
5. Cooking the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestled among the apples and onions. Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes. You want to cook until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the apples are tender.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once the pork chops are cooked through, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
7. Serving:
Serve the delicious pork chops warm, spooning the apple and onion mixture over the top. They pair wonderfully with your favorite side dish, like mashed potatoes or a green salad. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! If you prefer boneless pork chops, just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side instead of 4-5 minutes, and check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they’re cooked through.
What’s a Good Substitute for Chicken Broth?
You can use vegetable broth or apple cider for a different flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, low-sodium broth is great too. For a sweeter flavor profile, apple cider can enhance the dish perfectly! Just reduce the brown sugar if you prefer it less sweet.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! You can season and sear the pork chops ahead, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the apples and onions, add the broth and return the pork chops to the skillet to finish cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to the skillet to keep the pork chops moist.
