Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops – A Perfect Fall-Inspired Dish
If you’re looking for a delicious, easy-to-make pork chop recipe, these Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops are just what you need. The combination of tender, juicy pork chops with a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze creates the ultimate autumn comfort dish.
Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops | Easy Apple Cider Pork Chops Recipe with Sweet & Tangy Glaze
DifficultyMedium
Servings4
Prep time10 minutes
Cook time24 minutes
Total time35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chips, (1-inch thick)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
For the Apple Cider Glaze:
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp brown sugar , (or maple syrup)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cornstarch, (optional, thickening)
Let's Get Cooking!
Instructions:
- 1
Season and Sear the Pork Chops
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- 2
Make the Apple Cider Glaze
- In the same skillet, add apple cider, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, thyme, and garlic.
- Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, and let reduce for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- (Optional) Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water) to thicken further.
- 3
Finish Cooking the Pork Chops
- Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the apple cider glaze over them.
- Let cook for 3-5 more minutes, or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- 4
Serve and Enjoy!
- Spoon extra apple cider glaze over the pork chops before serving.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp apple salad.
Recipe Notes and Variations
Recipe Notes for the Best Apple Cider Pork Chops
- Choose the Right Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops retain more moisture, while boneless pork chops cook faster but may need extra attention to prevent drying out.
- Avoid Overcooking: Pork is best when cooked to 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it stays juicy and tender.
- Let Pork Chops Rest: After cooking, let them rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, making them more flavorful.
- Use Fresh Apple Cider: For the richest apple flavor, use fresh, unfiltered apple cider instead of apple juice.
- Enhance the Glaze: A splash of bourbon or a pinch of cinnamon can deepen the warm fall flavors in the glaze.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter at the end of reducing the glaze for a silkier sauce.
Variations of Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops
1. Different Cooking Methods
-
Grilled Apple Cider Pork Chops:
- Marinate pork chops in apple cider, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and thyme for 2 hours before grilling.
- Grill over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Brush with the apple cider glaze before serving.
-
Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pork Chops:
- Place seasoned pork chops in a slow cooker.
- Pour in apple cider, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until tender.
-
Oven-Baked Apple Cider Pork Chops:
- Sear pork chops in a skillet, then transfer to a 400°F (200°C) oven for 10-12 minutes.
- Reduce apple cider glaze separately and drizzle over baked chops before serving.
2. Alternative Proteins
- Chicken: Substitute bone-in chicken thighs or breasts for a lighter alternative.
- Salmon: The sweet and tangy glaze pairs beautifully with baked or pan-seared salmon.
- Tofu or Tempeh (Vegan Option): Coat firm tofu or tempeh slices in the apple cider glaze and pan-sear until golden brown.
3. Add More Fall Flavors
- Cranberry Apple Cider Pork Chops: Add ½ cup of fresh cranberries to the glaze for a tart contrast.
- Caramelized Apples & Onions: Sauté thinly sliced apples and onions in butter and serve them over the pork chops.
- Spicy Kick: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the glaze for subtle heat.
4. Side Dish Pairings
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes – Balances the tangy glaze with creamy sweetness.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Adds a nutty, roasted crunch.
- Wild Rice Pilaf – Absorbs the glaze beautifully.
- Apple & Walnut Salad – Complements the pork’s natural sweetness.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Make the Glaze Ahead: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently before using.
- Freeze for Later: Cooked pork chops can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat Properly: Warm pork chops in a skillet over low heat with extra glaze to prevent drying out.
Nutrition
| Calories | 420 |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Protein | 38g |
| Sodium | 680mg |
| Sugar | 14g |
History, Evolution, and Inspiration Behind Apple Cider Pork Chops
Pork and Apples – A Classic Combination
The pairing of pork and apples dates back centuries and is especially popular in European and American cuisines. The natural sweetness and acidity of apples complement the savory, rich flavors of pork, making it a classic flavor match in dishes like:
- German schnitzels with apple sauce
- French pork roasts with apple compote
- New England-style apple cider pork chops
Incolonial America, apple cider was a common household ingredient, often used to marinate or glaze meats. This tradition continues today, as apple cider vinegar pork chops remain a staple in many fall and winter meals.
Why Apple Cider Works So Well in This Recipe
Apple cider provides the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, making it an ideal ingredient for:
✔ Tenderizing pork chops for a juicier bite
✔ Creating a rich, caramelized glaze when reduced
✔ Bringing out the natural flavors of pork without overpowering them
The key to a perfect pork chops with apple cider glaze is to reduce the cider slowly, allowing the flavors to deepen and thicken into a luxurious sauce.
The Art of Cooking Perfect Apple Cider Pork Chops
1. Choosing the Right Cut of Pork Chops
For the best apple cider pork chops recipe, use:
- Bone-in pork chops – More flavorful and juicy
- Thick-cut pork chops (at least 1-inch thick) – Prevents overcooking
- Boneless pork chops – A leaner, quicker-cooking option
2. Searing for Maximum Flavor
Searing the pork chops in a hot skillet before adding the glaze helps to:
✔ Develop a golden-brown crust
✔ Lock in moisture
✔ Enhance caramelization of the apple cider glaze
3. Creating the Perfect Apple Cider Glaze
The secret to a balanced apple cider glaze is using both apple cider and apple cider vinegar. This combination ensures a:
✔ Deep, rich apple flavor
✔ Slight tanginess to cut through sweetness
✔ Perfect syrupy consistency when reduced
Interesting Things About This Recipe
- Naturally Gluten-Free – A great meal for those avoiding gluten.
- Easy to Make in One Pan – Less cleanup, more flavor!
- A Great Way to Use Fresh Apple Cider – Perfect in fall and winter when cider is in season.
- Versatile Serving Options – Goes well with everything from mashed potatoes to roasted Brussels sprouts.
An Overview of the Recipe Components
This apple cider pork chops recipe consists of three key elements:
- The Pork Chops – Seared to perfection for a crispy crust.
- The Apple Cider Glaze – A rich, sticky, sweet-and-tangy sauce.
- The Finishing Touches – Fresh thyme and apples for extra flavor.
What Occasions Is This Recipe Perfect For?
- Weeknight Dinners – Ready in under an hour.
- Holiday Gatherings – A festive fall favorite.
- Sunday Family Meals – Comfort food at its best.
- Dinner Parties – Elegant yet easy to prepare.
Why This Is the Perfect Apple Cider Pork Chops Recipe
✔ A balance of sweet and savory flavors
✔ Quick and easy to prepare
✔ Pairs well with a variety of side dishes
✔ Uses simple ingredients with gourmet results
