Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops

Introduction

Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops perfectly capture the cozy essence of fall — savory, sweet, and slightly tangy. Juicy seared pork chops are coated in a glossy apple cider glaze infused with butter, garlic, and a touch of Dijon mustard. The result is a harmonious blend of tender meat and a rich, caramelized sauce that’s both comforting and elegant.

This recipe brings together the best seasonal flavors: crisp apples, warm spices, and golden pan-seared pork. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough for guests or festive occasions.

❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect marriage of sweet and savory. The apple cider reduction transforms into a silky glaze that clings to each pork chop, enhancing their natural flavor without overpowering it.

It’s also incredibly easy to make — one skillet, minimal ingredients, and under 30 minutes from start to finish. The smell of apple cider simmering with garlic and herbs fills the kitchen with warmth and comfort, making it a true autumn (or anytime!) delight.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Delicious balance of flavors: Sweet cider, savory mustard, and juicy pork come together beautifully.
• Quick and easy: Ready in about 25 minutes — perfect for busy evenings.
• Seasonal and versatile: Ideal for fall dinners, yet light enough for year-round enjoyment.
• Elegant presentation: Golden pork chops glazed with a glossy sauce look restaurant-worthy.

If you love recipes that look impressive but require minimal effort, this is one you must try.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: Approximately 430 calories per serving

Cuisine: American

Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 boneless or bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter

For the Apple Cider Glaze:

• 1 cup apple cider (not vinegar)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves)
• 1 tbsp butter (for finishing sauce)
• Optional: pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
2. Sear in a skillet until golden brown on both sides.
3. Remove pork and make glaze in the same pan using apple cider, mustard, sugar, and seasonings.
4. Simmer until reduced and thickened.
5. Return pork chops to coat with glaze.
6. Serve warm with extra sauce drizzled over the top.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

• Pat pork chops dry with paper towels for better searing.
• Season both sides with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Pork

• Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add pork chops and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
• Remove from the pan and set aside (they will finish cooking later).

Step 3: Make the Apple Cider Glaze

• In the same pan, reduce heat to medium.
• Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Pour in apple cider, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and thyme.
• Stir and bring to a gentle boil.
• Simmer for 6–8 minutes until the sauce reduces by about half and becomes syrupy.

Step 4: Glaze and Finish

• Return pork chops to the skillet.
• Spoon the glaze over them and simmer for another 3–4 minutes, until the pork is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F / 63°C).
• Stir in the final tablespoon of butter for a glossy finish.

Step 5: Serve

• Remove from heat, let rest for a minute, and serve with the apple cider glaze drizzled generously over each chop.

How to Serve

Serve these juicy pork chops with sides that complement the sweet-savory glaze:

• Mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes
• Sautéed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts
• Wild rice pilaf or buttered noodles
• For a fall feast: add a side of apple slaw or roasted butternut squash

Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs or thin apple slices for an elegant touch.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook the pork: Overcooking makes pork dry. Use a thermometer for perfect doneness.
• Use real apple cider, not vinegar: The natural sweetness and apple flavor make all the difference.
• Deglaze the pan: Scrape up any browned bits after searing — they add rich flavor to the sauce.
• Rest before serving: Let pork sit for 2–3 minutes after cooking to lock in juices.
• Add butter at the end: It gives the glaze a silky, restaurant-quality finish.

Recipe Variations

1. Apple Cider Pork with Onions: Sauté sliced onions before adding cider for extra flavor.
2. Spicy Version: Add a dash of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the glaze.
3. Maple-Apple Glaze: Replace brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a deeper sweetness.
4. Creamy Apple Cider Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a velvety twist.
5. Herb-Infused: Add fresh rosemary or sage for a more aromatic profile.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cider to loosen the glaze.

Freezing:

• Freeze cooked and cooled pork chops (with glaze) for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan (preferably cast iron for best sear)
• Tongs or spatula
• Meat thermometer
• Whisk or wooden spoon
• Small bowl for mixing glaze ingredients

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use bone-in pork chops?
A: Absolutely! Bone-in chops are juicier and more flavorful. Just increase the cooking time slightly.

Q2: Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
A: Yes, but reduce the sugar a bit since apple juice is usually sweeter.

Q3: How can I make the glaze thicker?
A: Simmer longer until reduced, or whisk in a ½ teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

Q4: Can I grill the pork chops instead of pan-searing?
A: Yes! Grill until done, then simmer the glaze separately and brush it on before serving.

Q5: What’s the best way to know the pork is done?
A: Use a meat thermometer — it should read 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest.

Conclusion

Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops are the perfect mix of simplicity and sophistication — a tender, juicy main course bursting with cozy, seasonal flavor. The glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness and tang, creating a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.

It’s perfect for fall dinners, Sunday meals, or anytime you want a hearty yet refined dish that feels like home. Once you taste that caramelized cider glaze over perfectly seared pork, you’ll understand why this recipe deserves a permanent place in your kitchen rotation.