Fall is my favorite time to cook hearty, flavorful meals that fill the house with warm, comforting aromas.
One dish that’s become a staple in my kitchen is this Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops recipe.
It’s a perfect balance of savory and sweet, with tender pork chops coated in a rich, tangy glaze made from apple cider.
I love how the flavors come together—juicy pork, a hint of sweetness from the cider, and a touch of spice to round it out.
This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but feels special enough for a weekend gathering with friends or family.
It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table smile, and I’m excited to share it with you!
Read Also: Pork and Apple Skillet Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops Recipe
This recipe is a winner because it’s quick, versatile, and packed with cozy fall flavors.
The apple cider glaze adds a sweet-tart depth that elevates the pork chops without overpowering them, and the dish comes together in under 40 minutes.
It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it ideal for everything from casual dinners to holiday meals.
- Quick and easy preparation, ready in under 40 minutes.
- Combines sweet and savory flavors for a balanced, satisfying dish.
- Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients you likely already have.
- Versatile enough to pair with a wide range of side dishes.
- Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy weeknight meals.
Read Also: Maple Glazed Carrots Recipe
Ingredients
This recipe uses straightforward ingredients to create a flavorful glaze and perfectly cooked pork chops.
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this dish at home.
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick, 2.5 cm, 8 oz or 225 g each)
- 1 cup apple cider (240 ml)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (25 g)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (15 ml)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (5 g)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme, 1 g)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (1.5 g)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (1 g)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (3 g)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (0.5 g)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (15 g)
Read Also: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
Kitchen Equipment Needed
You don’t need fancy gadgets to make this recipe, just a few kitchen staples to get the job done.
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these pork chops.
- Large skillet (preferably cast iron or non-stick, 12-inch or 30 cm)
- Small saucepan (1-2 quarts or 1-2 liters)
- Tongs for flipping pork chops
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk for mixing the glaze
- Cutting board for prep
- Meat thermometer to check doneness
- Plate for resting pork chops
Read Also: Sweet Potato and Black Bean Bowls Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops
This recipe is straightforward but packed with flavor. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your pork chops turn out tender, juicy, and perfectly glazed.
1. Prepare the Pork Chops
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a nice sear.
- Season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Let the pork chops sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
2. Make the Apple Cider Glaze
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup apple cider, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves.
- Whisk over medium heat until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer, about 2-3 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and let the glaze simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat and set aside. The glaze will continue to thicken as it cools.
3. Sear the Pork Chops
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the pork chops to the skillet, ensuring they don’t overcrowd (work in batches if needed).
- Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip them gently.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; they should be 135°F (57°C) for medium doneness (they’ll finish cooking in the next step).
4. Glaze the Pork Chops
- Reduce the skillet heat to medium-low and pour half of the apple cider glaze over the pork chops.
- Spoon the glaze over the chops, letting it bubble and coat them evenly for 1-2 minutes.
- Add 1 tablespoon unsalted butter to the skillet and tilt the pan to swirl it into the glaze, creating a glossy finish.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness.
5. Rest and Serve
- Transfer the pork chops to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices.
- Drizzle the remaining glaze over the pork chops or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with extra fresh thyme leaves if desired, and serve hot.
Read Also: Grilled Chicken and Veggie Skewers Recipe
Tips for The Best Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops
These tips will help you nail the recipe every time, ensuring juicy pork chops with a flavorful glaze.
- Choose bone-in pork chops for extra flavor and juiciness; the bone helps retain moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; 145°F (63°C) is perfect for medium doneness.
- Simmer the glaze until it’s slightly thickened but not syrupy to ensure it coats the pork chops well.
- Let the pork chops rest at room temperature before cooking to promote even cooking.
- Don’t skip the butter in the glaze; it adds richness and a glossy finish.
- Taste the glaze before adding it to the pork chops and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Use fresh thyme for a brighter flavor, but dried thyme works in a pinch.
- Sear over medium-high heat to get a nice crust without burning the pork.
Read Also: Pork Tenderloin with Roasted Root Vegetables Recipe
Serving Suggestions
These pork chops are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides to create a complete meal.
The sweet and savory glaze complements both hearty and light dishes, making it perfect for fall dinners or special occasions.
- Serve with Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon for a smoky, crunchy side.
- Pair with Maple Glazed Carrots to enhance the sweet fall flavors.
- Enjoy with Healthy Mashed Potatoes for a creamy, comforting addition.
- Add a Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint for a refreshing contrast.
- Complement with Mulled Apple Cider for a cozy, festive drink.
Read Also: Healthy Coleslaw Recipe
Variations of Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops
You can tweak this recipe to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Here are some creative ways to switch things up.
- Swap apple cider for pear juice for a slightly different sweet-tart profile.
- Use boneless pork chops for a quicker cook time, reducing searing time by 1 minute per side.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Replace thyme with rosemary for a more earthy, aromatic flavor.
- Make it gluten-free by ensuring the Dijon mustard is certified gluten-free.
- Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a deeper, richer sweetness.
- Grill the pork chops instead of pan-searing for a smoky, charred flavor.
Read Also: Grilled Vegetable Skewers Recipe
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be just as delicious if stored and reheated properly. Here’s how to keep your pork chops tasting great.
- Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze cooked pork chops in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheat in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 10-12 minutes, covered with foil, to retain moisture.
- Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of apple cider to refresh the glaze.
- Microwave reheating is not recommended, as it can dry out the pork chops.
- Store extra glaze separately in the fridge for up to 5 days and reheat gently before using.
Read Also: BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Nutritional Facts
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (1 pork chop with glaze, based on 4 servings). These values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 20 g (6 g saturated)
- Carbohydrates: 15 g (10 g sugars)
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
Read Also: Healthy Shepherds Pie Recipe
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with ingredients that offer health benefits.
From protein-rich pork to antioxidant-packed apple cider, here’s why this recipe is a nutritious choice.
- Pork chops: High in protein and B vitamins, supporting muscle growth and energy metabolism.
- Apple cider: Contains antioxidants like polyphenols, which may support heart health.
- Thyme: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, with potential anti-inflammatory properties.
- Olive oil: Provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
- Garlic powder: May support immune health and has anti-inflammatory benefits.
Read Also: Healthy Sloppy Joe Recipe
FAQs About Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops
1. Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, boneless pork chops work well, though they cook faster. Reduce the searing time to 2-3 minutes per side and check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking. They’re a great option if you want a quicker meal or prefer less prep.
2. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the apple cider glaze up to 5 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stove before using, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick.
3. What if I don’t have fresh thyme?
Dried thyme is a fine substitute. Use half the amount (½ teaspoon) since dried herbs are more concentrated. You can also try rosemary or sage for a different but complementary flavor.
4. Can I grill the pork chops instead of pan-searing?
Yes, grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Grill over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, then brush with the glaze and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check that your Dijon mustard is certified gluten-free, as some brands may include additives. All other ingredients are safe for a gluten-free diet.
Read Also: Pork Chop Supreme Recipe
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops recipe has become one of my go-to dishes for fall, and I hope it finds a place in your kitchen too.
The combination of tender pork and that sweet-tart glaze is pure comfort food, perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests at a dinner party.
It’s simple enough for beginners but flavorful enough to feel like a treat.
Give this apple cider glazed pork chops recipe a try, and let me know in the comments how it turned out or share your favorite way to serve it!
Recommended:
- Pork and Apple Skillet Recipe
- Maple Glazed Carrots Recipe
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
- Healthy Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Mulled Apple Cider Recipe
- Pork Tenderloin with Roasted Root Vegetables Recipe
- Grilled Vegetable Skewers Recipe
- Healthy Shepherds Pie Recipe
- Healthy Sloppy Joe Recipe
- Pork Chop Supreme Recipe
