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Savory Juicy Bone-In Pork Chops Recipe with Easy Apple Cider Pan Sauce

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Juicy bone-in pork chops seared to perfection and topped with a tangy, slightly sweet apple cider pan sauce. A simple yet flavorful dish perfect for cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 2–3 fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
  • 1 cup pure apple cider
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat the bone-in pork chops dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  2. Place a cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. Flip and sear the other side for another 4 minutes.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons butter, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh thyme sprigs to the pan. Spoon the melted butter over the chops as they finish cooking, about 2 minutes more.
  5. Check doneness with a meat thermometer; it should read 140°F (60°C) for medium. If needed, cook for another minute or two. Remove chops to a warm plate and tent with foil to rest.
  6. With the skillet still on medium heat, pour in 1 cup apple cider, scraping up browned bits with a wooden spoon. Add ½ cup chicken broth, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon honey. Stir and simmer for 5-7 minutes until sauce reduces and thickens slightly.
  7. Remove garlic and thyme sprigs from the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Spoon sauce generously over the rested pork chops before serving.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness at 140°F (60°C). Avoid overcrowding the pan to get an even sear. Rest chops after cooking to retain juices. If sauce reduces too quickly, add more broth or cider. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Thicker chops may require finishing in a 400°F oven for 10-12 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork chops, bone-in pork chops, apple cider sauce, pan sauce, easy dinner, savory pork, juicy pork chops, quick pork recipe

Find it online: https://cravemila.com/savory-juicy-bone-in-pork-chops-recipe-with-easy-apple-cider-pan-sauce/