Name: Amazing Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops in Just 1 Pan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup apple cider; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste

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There’s just something about fall, isn’t there? The crisp air, the changing leaves, and that cozy feeling of wanting to gather around a warm meal. For me, it’s when my kitchen really comes alive with comforting aromas. I love making dishes that feel special but don’t take forever.

That’s why these Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops have become a real favorite in my home. They are the perfect fall-inspired entree. As Savana, I always look for ways to make delicious food easy. This recipe truly delivers on that.

It’s a quick, skillet-based meal. The pork chops get a beautiful sear. Then, they finish cooking in a sweet and tangy glaze. That apple cider and Dijon mustard combo is just magical. It makes a simple weeknight dinner feel like a holiday feast. You’ll love how quickly this comes together!

Why You’ll Love These Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops

I get it, life is busy. My goal is always to make delicious food accessible. This recipe truly shines in that area!

It’s incredibly easy to make.
You’ll have dinner on the table fast.
The flavors are just amazing.
It’s pure comfort food, perfect for any night.

The glaze gives you that wonderful sweet and tangy balance. It turns simple pork chops into something truly special. You’ll want to make this dish again and again!

The Magic of Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops

What makes this dish so good? It’s all in the apple cider glaze. That sweet cider reduces down. It blends perfectly with the tangy Dijon mustard. This creates a rich, flavorful sauce. It clings to every bite of pork. It makes the chops incredibly tender and juicy. This glaze transforms a basic meal. It becomes something extraordinary and memorable.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops

Creating these amazing pork chops starts with good ingredients. You’ll want four bone-in pork chops. I find bone-in gives the best flavor. They should be about one inch thick. For the glaze, grab one cup of good quality apple cider. Two tablespoons of Dijon mustard are key for that tangy kick. You’ll also need one tablespoon of unsalted butter. This lets you control the saltiness. A half teaspoon of dried thyme rounds out the flavors. Don’t forget salt and pepper, of course!

How to Prepare Your Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops

Ready to make some magic? Don’t worry, it’s really straightforward. I’ll walk you through each step. You’ll have delicious glazed pork chops on your plate in no time. Just follow along, and you’ll be a pro!

First, season your pork chops well. Use plenty of salt and pepper. Don’t be shy here! This first step adds so much flavor. Next, grab your biggest skillet. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in it. Make sure the pan is good and hot. This is key for a great sear.

Once your chops are nicely browned, take them out. Set them aside for a moment. Now, it’s time to build that amazing glaze. Reduce your heat to medium. Pour in the apple cider and Dijon mustard. Add the butter and dried thyme too. Stir it all together. Be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Those bits are pure flavor! Bring the mixture to a simmer. It will start to smell incredible.

Return the pork chops to the skillet. Cover the pan. Let them cook for about 8 to 10 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for 145°F (63°C). Once they reach temperature, remove the chops again. Let them rest on a plate. While they rest, crank up the heat. Let that glaze bubble and thicken. It should coat the back of a spoon. Spoon that glorious glaze over your resting chops. Serve them up right away!

Searing the Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops

Searing is super important. It creates a beautiful golden-brown crust. This adds so much flavor and texture. Heat your olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned pork chops in the hot pan. Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Sear them for 3-4 minutes per side. You want that lovely golden color. Once seared, remove them from the pan.

Crafting the Apple Cider Glaze

Now for the star of the show! After searing, reduce the heat to medium. Add the apple cider, Dijon mustard, butter, and thyme. Stir everything well. Make sure to scrape up all those browned bits. They add depth to the sauce. Let it come to a gentle simmer. This starts the thickening process. It will smell so good!

Finishing the Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops

Return your seared chops to the simmering glaze. Cover the skillet. Cook them on low heat. They need about 8-10 minutes. Always check the internal temperature. It should reach 145°F (63°C). This ensures they are perfectly cooked. Take the chops out and let them rest. Then, reduce the glaze. It will thicken into a luscious sauce. Spoon it over your juicy chops.

Tips for Success with Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops

I’ve learned a few things over the years. These little tricks can make a big difference. When picking your pork chops, go for bone-in. They really do add more flavor. Also, make sure they are similar in thickness. This helps them cook evenly. Don’t be afraid to season them generously. Salt and pepper are your friends here.

A meat thermometer is a game-changer. It takes the guesswork out of cooking. You’ll know exactly when your chops are perfectly done. Overcooked pork is dry, and nobody wants that! I remember once, my grandmother always just “knew” when meat was ready. But for me, that little thermometer gave me so much confidence. It truly made my dishes consistently better. It’s a simple tool that gives me perfect results every time. Trust me on this one!

Common Questions About Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops

I often get asked about little tweaks or common issues. Here are some answers to questions you might have about making these delicious apple cider pork chops. These tips will help you get it right every time!

First, how do you know when pork is done? The best way is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chop. It should read 145°F (63°C). This ensures juicy, safe pork. What if your glaze isn’t thick enough? Just simmer it longer! High heat helps it reduce and thicken. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn. Can you add other flavors? Absolutely! A pinch of cinnamon or a bay leaf can add more fall notes. Play around and make this recipe your own!

Can I Use Boneless Chops for Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops?

Yes, you can use boneless chops! Just know they cook faster. Reduce the cooking time in the glaze. Check them often with a thermometer. They might only need 5-7 minutes. Bone-in gives more flavor, but boneless works too.

How Do I Store Leftover Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops?

Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet. You can also use the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.

Estimated Nutritional Information for Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops

I always get asked about nutrition. Please remember, these numbers are just estimates. They can change based on your specific ingredients. Different brands have different values. This information is here to give you a general idea. It’s not exact science.

Serving Suggestions for Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops

These apple cider glazed pork chops are so versatile! They pair beautifully with many sides. I love serving them with creamy mashed potatoes. The potatoes soak up that amazing glaze. Roasted root vegetables are another fantastic choice. Think sweet potatoes or carrots. A simple green salad adds a fresh contrast. Steamed green beans or asparagus also work well. For something a little different, try wild rice. It really balances the sweet and tangy flavors. Choose sides that are easy to make. This keeps your meal simple and delicious.

Share Your Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops Experience

I hope you love these apple cider glazed pork chops as much as I do! I’d love to hear how they turned out for you. Please leave a comment below. Rate the recipe too! Share your delicious creations on social media. Tag us so I can see what you made. Happy cooking, friends!