Tender Apple Butter Pork Chops (Print Version)

Golden seared pork chops simmered in sweet apple butter sauce with cinnamon spiced apples and onions

# What You Need:

→ Meats

01 - 4 bone-in pork chops (about 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

# How to Make It:

01 - Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
02 - Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until butter foams. Sear the seasoned pork chops for 3 minutes per side until deeply golden brown. Transfer to a plate and reserve.
03 - Add sliced onions and apples to the same skillet. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and lightly browned, stirring occasionally. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - In a small bowl, whisk together apple butter, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and ground cinnamon until smooth and fully combined.
05 - Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the apples and onions. Stir well to incorporate and bring to a gentle simmer.
06 - Return the pork chops and any accumulated juices back to the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce over the chops to coat evenly.
07 - Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes until pork chops reach 145°F internal temperature and are fork-tender.
08 - Remove from heat and let the pork chops rest for 2 to 3 minutes. Serve topped with caramelized apples, onions, and extra sauce from the skillet.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • The sauce balances sweet and savory in a way that makes pork chops feel special without any fuss
  • Everything happens in one pan, so you get maximum flavor with minimum cleanup
02 -
  • Dry the pork chops thoroughly before seasoning or they will steam instead of sear
  • Letting the sauce simmer uncovered for the last few minutes thickens it beautifully if needed
03 -
  • Use a meat thermometer instead of cutting into the pork to check doneness
  • Let the pork rest in the warm sauce while you plate the sides for extra moisture

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