When the cool breeze of autumn starts to whisper through the kitchen window, there’s nothing more comforting than the sizzle of pork chops searing to golden perfection. These Apple Pork Chops are the ultimate cozy weeknight dinner, marrying sweet, tart apples with savory, juicy meat. With a luscious blend of onions, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and fragrant thyme, every bite delivers a harmonious dance of flavors that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for the family or hosting a casual get-together, this dish transforms simple pantry staples into a memorable feast.
What I love most about this recipe is how beginner-friendly it is—perfect for cooks of all levels. In just about 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes like you spent hours perfecting it. After a brief 5-minute rest, those chops soak up all the wonderful juices, leaving you with tender, succulent pork that practically melts in your mouth. At roughly 450 kcal per serving, it’s hearty enough for dinner without feeling overly indulgent. And bonus: cleanup is a breeze if you grab your trusty cast-iron skillet—it sears the meat beautifully and builds that irresistible caramelized fond for your apple-onion sauce.
Gather your ingredients and let those flavors mingle while the kitchen fills with the sweet and savory notes of fall. With just a handful of steps, you’ll create something you’ll want to make again and again. Ready to dive in? Let’s break down exactly what you’ll need before we get cooking.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN APPLE PORK CHOPS
Before you fire up the stove, let’s chat about the essential cast of characters in this recipe. Each ingredient plays its part in building layers of flavor, from the rich umami of the meat to the lively pop of apple cider vinegar.
- Pork chops
Thick-cut and juicy, these serve as the hearty backbone of the dish. Searing locks in their natural juices, giving you that delightful caramelized crust.
- Salt and pepper
Basic seasonings that emphasize the pork’s natural flavor. A generous sprinkle on both sides ensures each bite is perfectly seasoned.
- Olive oil
Provides a high-heat cooking medium for a golden sear without burning. It also contributes a subtle, fruity richness.
- Onion
Thinly sliced, onions soften and sweeten as they cook, creating a flavorful base for the sauce. They add depth and balance to the sweet apples.
- Apples
Peeled, cored, and sliced, apples bring a juicy sweetness and slight tartness. Depending on variety—Granny Smith for tart bite or Fuji for natural sweetness—they complement savory pork beautifully.
- Chicken broth
Adds a savory, umami-rich liquid that helps deglaze the pan and builds the sauce’s body without overpowering sweetness.
- Apple cider vinegar
Infuses a bright, tangy note that cuts through richness. It also helps balance the brown sugar’s sweetness.
- Brown sugar
Melts into the sauce for a silky, caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with apples.
- Thyme
Fresh or dried, thyme contributes an herbal, earthy aroma that weaves all the flavors together.
- Butter
Finishing the sauce with a knob of butter enriches the texture and brings a velvety sheen.
HOW TO MAKE APPLE PORK CHOPS
Every great recipe tells a story, and this one unfolds in your skillet with simple techniques and lots of flavor-building moments. Let’s walk through the 11 essential steps to transform these humble ingredients into a mouthwatering meal.
1. Season the pork chops on both sides with salt and pepper, ensuring an even coating that will enhance every bite.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat—you want the oil shimmering but not smoking.
3. Add the pork chops to the hot skillet and sear for 3–4 minutes on each side, forming a beautiful golden crust. Once browned, remove the chops and set them aside on a warm plate.
4. In the same skillet, toss in the sliced onion and cook, stirring frequently, until softened and translucent, about 3 minutes.
5. Add the apple slices to the skillet and continue cooking for another 3 minutes, allowing them to soften and pick up those fond flavors.
6. Stir in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and thyme, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Nestle the pork chops back into the skillet, spooning some of the apple-onion sauce over them so each chop is partially submerged.
8. Reduce the heat to medium, then cover the skillet and let everything cook together for 10–15 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
9. Transfer the pork chops to a serving platter and allow them to rest for about 5 minutes—this keeps them juicy and tender.
10. Meanwhile, crank the heat up slightly and stir the butter into the apple and onion mixture, whisking until the sauce thickens and gains a glossy finish.
11. Spoon the rich, sweet-tangy apple-onion sauce generously over the pork chops and serve immediately.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR APPLE PORK CHOPS
When your Apple Pork Chops are ready to hit the table, think about sides and presentations that let their sweet-tart sauce shine. These serving ideas turn a simple skillet dinner into a full, satisfying meal.
- Roast a big bowl of mashed potatoes and spoon the apple-onion sauce right over them. The creamy potatoes soak up every drop of sauce for a dreamy, comforting combination.
- Pair with a hearty grain like farro or wild rice, tossing it with a pat of butter and fresh herbs. The nutty grains add texture and make the meal feel even more substantial.
- Balance the richness with roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with flaky sea salt. The slight char on the veggies echoes the pork’s sear.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the sweetness. A mix of peppery arugula, spinach, and thinly sliced fennel keeps things bright and fresh.
HOW TO STORE APPLE PORK CHOPS
Leftovers of these Apple Pork Chops are just as good (if not better) thanks to all those flavorful juices. With a few simple storage tips, you can preserve their freshness and taste for days to come.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the pork and sauce together so the meat continues to absorb the flavors.
- For longer storage, transfer chops and sauce into a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2–3 months.
- To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This method keeps the pork tender and the sauce glossy.
- If you prefer, store the sauce separately from the chops. Reheat the pork briefly, then pour warmed sauce over the meat just before serving to maintain texture.
CONCLUSION
Bringing these Apple Pork Chops together is like hosting a little fall festival right in your own kitchen—each chop basks in a cozy, sweet-tart sauce that feels just right for weeknight dinners or a relaxed lunch gathering. From the first sear that fills your skillet with crackling sound to the final drizzle of glossy apple-onion sauce, every moment is easy, fun, and absolutely delicious. This beginner-friendly recipe, with just 10 minutes of prep and about 30 minutes of cooking, proves that impressive flavors don’t have to be complicated. And at roughly 450 kcal per serving, it’s a balanced option that satisfies both your taste buds and your busy schedule.
Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder or save it on your device for those evenings when you want a fuss-free yet unforgettable meal. Scroll down to the FAQ below for more tips, tricks, and answers to any questions you might have. If you try these chops, have thoughts to share, or need a little extra guidance, I’d love to hear from you. Leave a comment with your favorite apple variety, any twists you’ve added, or even your feedback—let’s keep the conversation cooking!
Apple Pork Chops
Description
Tender pork chops seared to golden perfection and simmered in a luscious blend of apples, onions, cider vinegar, and thyme for a harmonious sweet-tart flavor
Ingredients
Instructions
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Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the pork chops to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chops from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook, stirring frequently until softened, about 3 minutes.
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Add the apple slices to the skillet and continue to cook for another 3 minutes until the apples start to soften.
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Stir in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce and apple mixture.
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Lower the heat to medium and cover the skillet. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes or until the pork chops are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
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Remove the pork chops from the skillet and onto a serving platter, allowing them to rest.
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Increase the heat slightly and stir the butter into the apple and onion mixture until the sauce is slightly thickened.
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Spoon the apple-onion sauce over the pork chops and serve.
Note
- For an added depth of flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in apple cider overnight.
- Use a cast-iron skillet for a more even heat distribution and better searing of the pork chops.
- Granny Smith apples work well for a tart taste, while Fuji apples provide a sweeter option.
- Pair this dish with mashed potatoes or a hearty grain like farro for a complete meal.
