What are some comfort food recipes? Is it like a warm hug on the plate? I know we all have those go-to chicken recipes – the lemon herb, the crispy baked… but trust me on this one. Is it a good idea to substitute chicken for pork and add sweet apples? Is it just a kiss? Think of it as a sophisticated, grown-up version of those pork chops and applesauce dinners your mom made for you. probably made (or maybe that was just my childhood! What is next level? The apples caramelize beautifully, the pork stays juicy, and the whole thing just comes together. a symphony of flavors. What are some of the best Apple Pork Chops?
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What are apple pork chops?
What is Apple Pork Chops? Is pork chops cooked with sweet and slightly tart apples? What is so much more than those two ingredients? What is essentially a one-pan meal where the pork chops are seared to golden-brown perfection and then fried to crisp perfection. What are some examples of stewed apples, onions, and sometimes a touch of herbs and spices? What is a rustic, autumnal dish that’s perfect for supper? Some variations might involve a creamy sauce, others ‘s simple pan gravy’. I personally like to add a splash of apple cider vinegar to really brighten up the flavors and textures. Balance the sweetness. The name itself is pretty self-explanatory. But the flavor? Where does magic happen?
Why I love this recipe?
Why are Apple Pork Chops so popular? First of all, the flavor is out of this world. What is the best combination of savory pork and sweet apples? It’s a perfect balance that hits all the right notes. What I love most about this is how surprisingly easy it is to make. Is there any one-pan wonder that requires little effort? What’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you need to have scrumptious meals on the table? In less than an hour. Plus, the ingredients are pretty cost-effective, especially if you buy apples when they’re in season. If you love quick pork dishes, but are tired of the same old, same-old… This is going to be your new favorite.
Beyond the flavor and ease, this recipe is also incredibly versatile. Can you serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or even a simple salad? What are some great ways to use up leftover apples? What is a recipe that fits your lifestyle? I make this all the time, and everyone raves about it. It’s just that good!
How do I make Apple Pork Chops?
Quick Overview
How do I make Apple Pork Chops? What is the best way to cook pork chops? You’ll add the apples, onions, spices to the pan, and let everything simmer together until the mixture is smooth. The pork is cooked through and the apples are soft and caramelized. What’s the best thing about one pan cooking? As everything simmers together, the flavors just keep getting better. What is a set-it-and-forget kind of meal?
Ingredients
For Pork Chops:
• 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick: I prefer boneless because they cook faster and more evenly, but bone-in will work too. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the pork chops. Can you use any other neutral flavored oil?
• 1 teaspoon salt: To season the pork chops and bring out their natural flavor. I like to use kosher salt.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best!
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor that complements the apples beautifully.
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika: For a touch of color and smokiness.
For the Apple Mixture:
• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps to caramelize the apples and onions. I use unsalted so I can control the saltiness of the dish.
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced: Adds savory depth and sweetness to the dish. What are some ways to use red onion for a different flavor?
• 2 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced: I like to use a combination of sweet and tart apples, like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith. What are some of the best songs to use?
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Provides moisture and helps to create a delicious pan sauce.
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness of the apples.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the apples and helps them to caramelize. Can you use maple syrup or honey?
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a savory, herbaceous flavor that complements the pork and apples perfectly.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: For a touch of warmth and spice.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, grab an oven-safe skillet (cast iron works great!) or a baking dish. If you’re using a baking dish, lightly grease it with cooking spray. How do I prevent pork chops from sticking to my fingers?
Step 2: Season the Pork Chops
How do I get my pork chops seasoned? In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well. What is the best way to serve pork chops? What is the best seasoning for pork chops?
Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops
What is the best way to heat olive oil in a skillet? ) over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the skillet and sear them for 2-3 minutes per side. If you’re a vegetarian, cook the potatoes on the side, or until How do you sear pork chops? Don’t overcrowd the pan – you may need to do this in batches.
Step 4: Sauté the Apples and Onions
Remove pork chops from the skillet and set them aside. Add butter to a large skillet and let it melt. Then, add the sliced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Add the sliced apples and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until they’re slightly softened. Serve warm. The apples should be tender but still hold their shape.
Step 5: Add Broth & Spices
Is the chicken broth too strong to use in a skillet? What is the bottom of the pan? Where is all that delicious flavor? Stir in the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 6: Return Pork Chops to Pan
What is the best way to cook pork chops in a skillet? Make sure the pork chops are partially submerged in the sauce. How do you keep them moist and flavorful while baking?
Step 7: Bake
Transfer the pork chops to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. I always do this when I want to make sure it’s perfect. The sauce should have thickened slightly and the apples should be soft and tender.
Step 8: Rest & Serve
Remove pork chops from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. What is the best way to redistribute pork chops? Serve immediately and enjoy!
What should I serve it with?
What is the best side dish for Apple Pork Chops?
For a Classic Comfort Meal:Mashed potatoes are always a good idea. They soak up the delicious pan sauce perfectly. I like to add a little cream cheese to my mashed potatoes for extra richness.
For a lighter option:A simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of greens. What is the difference between pork and apples?
What is a hearty meal?Roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts, carrots or sweet potatoes, are a great way to add more flavor to your salad. What are the nutrients in a meal? I love roasting potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
My family loves this dish. It is so good with a glass of Chardonnay. Can you serve this with crusty bread?
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Apple Pork Chops
Want to make sure your Apple Pork Chops are absolutely perfect? Here are a few tips that I’ve learned over the years:
Choose the Right Apples: The type of apples you use can make a big difference in the final flavor of the dish. I like to use a combination of sweet and tart apples, like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith. Other good options include Fuji, Gala, and Braeburn.
Don’t Overcook the Pork Chops: Overcooked pork chops are dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the pork chops are cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Then, let them rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Caramelize the Apples: Sautéing the apples until they’re slightly caramelized adds a depth of flavor that you just can’t get any other way. Be patient and let them cook until they’re golden brown and tender.
Deglaze the Pan: Don’t skip the step of deglazing the pan with chicken broth and apple cider vinegar. This is where all that delicious flavor is! Scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan adds a richness and complexity to the sauce.
I have also tested this dish with maple syrup instead of brown sugar. I prefer brown sugar. I think that it adds more to the dish.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover Apple Pork Chops, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over medium heat and cook until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may not be as tender.
If you want to freeze the pork chops, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
I’ve found that the sauce tends to thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a little bit of chicken broth or water when reheating to thin it out. I always add about 1/4 cup of broth. When I am done, it is as good as it was when I originally made it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my absolute favorite Apple Pork Chops recipe! I truly believe that this is one of those dishes that everyone should have in their repertoire. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any extra apples you might have lying around. If you’re looking for more cozy recipes, check out my skillet apple pie recipe.
I really do hope you give these Apple Pork Chops a try. Once you do, I just know you’ll be hooked! And please, if you make it, leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out. I love hearing from you all! Happy cooking!
How to Make Apple Pork Chops: 5 Easy Steps for a Delicious Dinner!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pcs pork chops 1 inch thick, bone-in or boneless
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1.5 cups apple cider
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 0.5 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 2 apples sliced, firm variety like Granny Smith
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Season the pork chops with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add pork chops to the skillet and sear on each side until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- In a bowl, combine apple cider, chicken broth, honey, garlic, applesauce, and dried sage.
- Pour the apple cider mixture over the pork chops, then add the apple slices. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10 minutes or until apples are tender.
- Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving.
