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Easy 20-Minute Apple Cider Pork Chops for a Quick Dinner

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Quick, one-pan apple cider pork chops with a tangy-sweet sauce that comes together in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this simple recipe delivers juicy, golden pork with a glossy, savory-sweet glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
  • 1 cup unsweetened apple cider
  • ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4–5 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side until deeply golden brown. Transfer to a plate.
  4. Reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic, and sauté for 20-30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in apple cider and chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan.
  6. Add fresh thyme sprigs and return pork chops to the pan. Simmer on medium-low for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway.
  7. Remove thyme sprigs. Stir in butter and Dijon mustard (if using) until melted and glossy.
  8. Let pork chops rest in the sauce for 2-3 minutes before serving. Spoon sauce over the top.

Notes

Pat pork chops completely dry for a good sear. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; pull at 140°F (60°C) and rest to 145°F (63°C). If sauce is too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. For a dairy-free version, skip the butter or use a dairy-free alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider pork chops, quick dinner, one-pan meal, weeknight dinner, pork chop recipe, fall recipe, easy dinner