Apple Cider Braised Pork Chops

Warm, tender, and full of fall flavours, these Apple Cider Braised Pork Chops make for a cozy and satisfying meal. The combination of sweet apple cider and savoury pork creates a perfect balance. Follow this easy recipe for a delicious weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 ½ cups apple cider
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

  • Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  • In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until browned. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook until they are soft and lightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
  • Pour in the apple cider, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  • Stir in the chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and thyme. Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
  • Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the pork chops simmer gently in the apple cider mixture for 25-30 minutes, until they are tender and cooked through (an internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
  • Once the pork chops are done, remove them from the skillet and keep them warm. Increase the heat to medium and stir in the apple cider vinegar and butter, cooking for another 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
  • Spoon the apple cider sauce over the pork chops and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad for a complete meal.

These Apple Cider Braised Pork Chops are a perfect blend of savory and sweet, making them an ideal choice for a cozy, flavorful meal. The tender pork, paired with the rich apple cider sauce, brings warmth to your dinner table and can easily become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a weeknight meal or a special gathering, it’s sure to impress. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, and enjoy the comforting taste of fall in every bite!