Juicy pork chops paired with sweet apples and savory onions make for a tasty dish. It’s like a hug for your taste buds! Plus, it cooks up in just one pan!
When I make this, I can’t help but smile as the smell fills the kitchen. I love serving it with mashed potatoes for a complete meal—pure comfort food! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and moisture! For a leaner option, you can use boneless chops, but watch the cooking time to prevent drying out.
Apples: I love using Fuji or Honeycrisp for their sweetness and crispness. If you prefer tartness, Granny Smith apples work well too. Just adjust sugar to taste!
Onions: Red onions give a great color and sweetness. If you only have yellow onions, they can be used as a substitute and will create a lovely caramel flavor.
Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme are amazing, but if you have dried versions, just use less (1/3 the amount). Dried herbs work well too and are more convenient.
How Do You Get the Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
Searing the pork chops is crucial. A good sear adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with dry pork chops to help them brown nicely.
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot, then add the oil.
- Place the chops in the pan without crowding—this helps with browning!
- Don’t move them around initially; let them sear for 4-5 minutes before flipping.
This way, you’ll achieve a beautiful golden crust that seals in those delicious juices!
Pork Chops with Apples and Onions
Ingredients:
- For the Pork Chops:
- 3 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- For the Fruit and Vegetables:
- 1 large apple (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp), cored and sliced into wedges
- 1 medium red onion, sliced into wedges
- 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme (optional)
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or apple cider (for deglazing)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or sage (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, plan for about 30 minutes until your delicious meal is on the table. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps create a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you’re using dried thyme or sage, sprinkle that on as well.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Add the pork chops to the skillet and let them sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a lovely golden-brown crust. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Apples and Onions:
Now, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Swirl it around to melt. Next, add the sliced onions and apple wedges. Toss them in the melted butter and cook for around 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and light up with color.
4. Combine and Deglaze:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them among the apples and onions. Place the rosemary and thyme sprigs on top. Carefully pour the chicken broth or apple cider around (not directly over) the pork chops to deglaze the pan—this lifts all those tasty browned bits from the bottom.
5. Cook it All Together:
Cover the skillet and let it cook on medium-low heat for another 5-7 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Serve:
Remove the pork chops, apples, and onions from the skillet and place them onto a serving plate. Discard any remaining herb sprigs. For an extra touch, simmer the pan juices for a minute or two to thicken slightly, then drizzle over the pork chops and apples.
7. Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and serve immediately. This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Enjoy the wonderful blend of savory pork, sweet apples, and fragrant herbs!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Type of Apples Work Best?
Fuji and Honeycrisp apples are great for their sweetness and crunch. If you prefer a tart flavor, Granny Smith apples are a good option, just balance the sugar accordingly!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
While the pork chops are best cooked fresh to maintain their juiciness, you can slice and prepare the apples and onions ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook!
