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Crispy Bone-In Pork Chops with Apple Cider Glaze

crispy bone-in pork chops - featured image

A quick and easy dinner recipe featuring juicy bone-in pork chops with a crispy crust, topped with a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze. Perfect for cozy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or canola oil
  • 1 cup apple cider (preferably unfiltered)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • A few sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

  1. Pat the bone-in pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
  2. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and fresh thyme or rosemary if using. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Let reduce by half, about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove herbs and stir in butter off heat.
  3. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil. Wait until the oil shimmers but does not smoke.
  4. Add the pork chops carefully to the hot pan without crowding. Sear for 4-5 minutes on each side without moving them, aiming for a deep golden crust. Flip once using tongs.
  5. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer (145°F/63°C) or by ensuring clear juices and a firm but slightly springy texture. If needed, reduce heat to medium and cook an extra minute or two per side.
  6. Transfer the chops to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Rest for at least 5 minutes.
  7. Spoon the warm apple cider glaze generously over the pork chops before serving.

Notes

Patting the pork chops dry before cooking is essential for a crispy crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Rest the meat after cooking to keep it juicy. Reduce the glaze slowly over medium heat to avoid burning. Stir in butter off heat for a silky finish.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork chops, apple cider glaze, crispy pork chops, easy dinner, bone-in pork chops, weeknight meal, gluten-free