These Skillet Pork Chops with Apples are a comforting one-pan dinner featuring juicy seared pork chops, tender apples, and sweet caramelized onions in a rich pan sauce. It’s an easy fall-inspired meal that’s ready in about 40 minutes.
Skillet Pork Chops with Apples
Ingredients
Method
- Pat the pork chops dry and season both sides with the salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the pork chops for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the pork chops to a plate.
- Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet.
- Add the onion and cook for 4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the diced apples and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until slightly softened.
- Pour in the chicken broth and apple cider, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, if using.
- Return the pork chops to the skillet.
- Cover and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving with the apples and pan sauce.
Notes
- Bone-in pork chops stay juicier than boneless chops.
- Avoid overcooking to keep the meat tender.
- Sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Gala work best.
- Deglazing the skillet adds extra flavor to the sauce.
- Let the pork rest before serving to keep it juicy.
Variations
- Add fresh rosemary instead of thyme.
- Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
- Add sliced mushrooms with the onions.
- Use pears instead of apples.
- Sprinkle crispy bacon over the finished dish.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for a subtle fall flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with mashed potatoes.
- Pair with roasted green beans.
- Enjoy with buttered egg noodles.
- Serve alongside steamed broccoli.
- Add a fresh garden salad.
- Pair with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Tips
- Bring the pork chops to room temperature before cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet.
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
- Taste the sauce before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.
- Leftovers reheat well the next day.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings
Serves: 4
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 33g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 26g
- Sodium: 470mg
FAQs
What apples are best for pork chops?
Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, and Pink Lady apples are excellent because they hold their shape while adding natural sweetness.
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes. Boneless pork chops work well, but they cook faster, so reduce the simmering time to avoid drying them out.
How do I know when pork chops are done?
Use an instant-read thermometer. Pork is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3 to 5 minute rest.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Store the cooked pork chops and apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.
Can I freeze skillet pork chops?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What sides go well with pork chops and apples?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, stuffing, buttered noodles, or a crisp green salad all pair beautifully with this dish.
Conclusion
These Skillet Pork Chops with Apples are an easy one-pan meal packed with savory and sweet flavors. Tender pork, caramelized apples, and a flavorful pan sauce make this comforting dinner perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family meals.
