Print

Savory Pan-Seared Pork Chops with Easy Apple Cider Glaze

pan-seared pork chops apple cider glaze - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy recipe for juicy pan-seared pork chops with a tangy, sticky apple cider glaze that’s perfect for cozy dinners and impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
  • Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
  2. Heat a heavy skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and heat until shimmering but not smoking, about 2 minutes.
  3. Add the pork chops to the pan without overcrowding. Sear for 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving them to develop a deep golden-brown crust. Flip and sear the other side for 3-4 minutes.
  4. Lower the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons butter, minced garlic, and fresh thyme to the pan. Spoon the melted butter and herbs over the chops for 1-2 minutes to baste.
  5. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). If not done, reduce heat to medium-low and cook for another 1-2 minutes, flipping occasionally.
  6. Transfer the pork chops to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Rest for 5-7 minutes to let the juices redistribute.
  7. In the same skillet or a small saucepan, combine 1 cup apple cider, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar if using. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  8. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 8-10 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  9. Drizzle the warm apple cider glaze over the rested pork chops. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired and serve.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and ensure juiciness. Dry pork chops well before searing for a better crust. Reduce glaze slowly over medium heat to prevent burning. For dairy-free, substitute butter with plant-based margarine or extra olive oil. Optional: add cinnamon or crushed juniper berries to glaze for extra warmth.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork chops, pan-seared pork chops, apple cider glaze, easy pork recipe, quick dinner, comfort food, fall recipe

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/savory-pan-seared-pork-chops-with-easy-apple-cider-glaze-recipe/