These tasty pork chops are combined with sweet apples and savory onions for a wonderful meal. The flavors mix together perfectly for a comforting dish that feels special without all the fuss!
Cooking this dish makes the kitchen smell amazing! I love serving it with some rice or mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious sauce. It’s simple enough for any night but fancy enough for guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are perfect for this dish as they stay juicy during cooking. If bone-in isn’t available, boneless chops work too, but check them a bit sooner for doneness.
Onions: Red onions add a nice sweetness and color. Yellow onions can also be used if that’s what you have; they’ll give a slightly different flavor but still tasty!
Apples: I like using Fuji or Gala apples for their sweetness. If you want a little tartness, pick Granny Smith apples instead. Just remember to slice them thick, so they hold their shape!
Chicken Broth: Homemade is best, but any low-sodium chicken broth works. If you prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth can be substituted.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a great aroma. If you only have dried thyme, use about one-third the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Get Perfectly Sear Ed Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops is essential for building flavor! To achieve a nice sear, start with a hot pan. Follow these simple steps:
- Use a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron, for even heat distribution.
- Add enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan and let it heat until shimmering, not smoking.
- Pat the pork chops dry before seasoning; dry meat sears better.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches. Avoid flipping too soon; give them about 3-4 minutes on each side to get that golden crust.
Once seared, set them aside so the apples and onions can shine without overcooking the meat!
How to Make Pork Chops with Apples and Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 3 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Apple and Onion Mixture:
- 1 large red onion, sliced into wedges
- 2 apples (such as Fuji or Gala), cored and sliced into wedges
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, plus more sprigs for garnish
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for brightness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be enjoying your delicious pork chops in about 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and black pepper. This helps bring out the flavor!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat a large skillet (a cast iron skillet works great) over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. When the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the pork chops. Sear them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown. Once done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Cook the Onions:
In the same skillet with the leftover oil and drippings, add the sliced red onions. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and turn translucent.
4. Add the Apples:
Next, add the apple wedges to the skillet with the onions. Cook them together for another 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the apples to soften slightly but still keep their shape.
5. Add Garlic and Thyme:
Now, stir in the minced garlic and fresh thyme leaves, cooking for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.
6. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any tasty brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan—a lot of flavor there!
7. Finish Cooking the Pork Chops:
Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, placing them among the apples and onions. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let everything cook together for about 6 to 8 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Rest the Pork Chops:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and cover them loosely with foil to keep them warm while you finish the sauce.
9. Use Butter for Extra Flavor:
Add the butter to the pan sauce with the apples and onions. If you’d like, you can stir in the apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to brighten up the flavors. Allow it to simmer uncovered for a couple of minutes until slightly thickened.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the pork chops topped with the delicious apple and onion mixture. Drizzle some of the pan sauce over the top and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs. Enjoy your warm and comforting meal!
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even a fresh salad. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can absolutely use boneless pork chops! Just be aware that they may cook a little faster, so check for doneness around the 5-6 minute mark.
What Type of Apples Work Best?
Fuji and Gala apples are fantastic for this recipe due to their sweetness, but you can also use Granny Smith if you prefer a slightly tart flavor. Just make sure to slice them thick enough to hold their shape during cooking!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the apple and onion mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it in the skillet along with the pork chops when you’re ready to serve.
