Tender Apple Butter Pork Chops (Printable Version)

Juicy pork chops in sweet apple butter sauce with cinnamon and onions

# Ingredient List:

→ Meats

01 - 4 bone-in pork chops, approximately 1 inch thick

→ Fruits & Vegetables

02 - 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
03 - 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced

→ Sauce & Pantry

05 - 1/2 cup apple butter
06 - 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
07 - 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
08 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
09 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
10 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

→ Spices & Seasonings

11 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
12 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
13 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
14 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

# Directions:

01 - Pat the pork chops thoroughly dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika, pressing the spices into the meat to ensure adherence.
02 - Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the butter foams subsides. Add the seasoned pork chops and sear for exactly 3 minutes per side until a deep golden-brown crust forms. Transfer the chops to a plate and reserve.
03 - In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and apples. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and apples begin to soften. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute until fragrant.
04 - In a small bowl, whisk together the apple butter, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and ground cinnamon until completely smooth and well combined.
05 - Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet over the apples and onions. Stir gently to incorporate, then bring to a gentle simmer. Return the pork chops along with any accumulated juices back to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chops to coat evenly.
06 - Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Cook until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) when measured with a meat thermometer and feel tender when pierced.
07 - Remove the skillet from heat and let the pork chops rest for 2 to 3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Serve the chops topped generously with the caramelized apples, onions, and extra sauce from the pan.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The sauce creates this incredible sticky glaze that makes everything taste like it spent all day in a Dutch oven
  • Its one of those rare weeknight meals that looks fancy but requires zero stress or technique
02 -
  • Dry your pork chops thoroughly before seasoning or you will not get that restaurant quality sear
  • Let the meat rest at room temperature for at least 15 minutes before cooking for even results
03 -
  • Use a meat thermometer instead of guessing, pork dries out fast once overcooked
  • Do not crowd the pan or the chops will steam instead of sear

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