This dish brings together tender pork chops, sweet apples, and savory onions for a lovely dinner treat. The flavors mix beautifully, making every bite a real delight!
I love how the apples add a touch of sweetness. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! Plus, it’s super easy—just cook everything in one pan and you’re set for a cozy meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add extra flavor and moisture. If you have boneless, those work too—just watch the cooking time as they cook faster. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts can be used, but they will have a different flavor profile.
Apples: Gala or Fuji are sweet and hold their shape well. You could also use Granny Smith for a tart contrast, or Honeycrisp for a balance of sweet and tart. In a pinch? Canned or frozen apple slices can substitute, just drain them well.
Onion: Red onions are sweeter and add color, but yellow or sweet onions work just as well. If onions aren’t your thing, try leeks for a gentle flavor, or omit them entirely for simpler flavors.
Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary provide lovely aromas. You can use dried herbs if fresh is unavailable; just reduce the amount by half. A sprinkle of dried sage could be a yummy alternative!
How Do You Get Juicy Pork Chops?
Getting juicy pork chops involves a few key steps. Start by searing them properly to lock in moisture. Here’s how:
- Always let the pork chops sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before cooking; this helps them cook more evenly.
- Season them well with salt and pepper to enhance flavor. Searing them over medium-high heat builds a delicious crust.
- Use a meat thermometer! Check for 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork that’s still juicy.
- Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain the juices while you prep the rest of your meal.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Apples and Onions Together?
Cooking apples and onions together is all about timing. Follow these tips:
- Start with the onions since they take longer to soften. Sauté them until they’re translucent before adding the apples.
- Keep the heat at medium. This allows both the apples and onions to caramelize without burning, bringing out their natural sweetness.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, but let them sit enough for some nice browning. Aim for tender apples with a bit of their shape remaining—about 3-5 minutes should do.
Pork Chops with Apples and Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 3 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Fruit & Veggies:
- 2 medium apples (such as Gala or Fuji), sliced into wedges with skin on
- 1 large red onion, sliced into thin wedges
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and around 15-20 minutes for cooking. All together, you’ll need about 30-35 minutes to create this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Begin by seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. Letting them sit for a few minutes helps enhance the flavor while you prepare other ingredients.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Once hot, add the pork chops to the pan. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. Once done, remove the chops and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Onions:
Lower the heat to medium. Add the butter to the pan and allow it to melt while swirling it around. Next, toss in the sliced onions and sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they are soft and translucent.
4. Add the Apples:
Now, add the apple wedges to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the apples start to soften but retain their shape.
5. Deglaze and Season:
Pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme and rosemary. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes for the flavors to combine beautifully.
6. Return the Pork Chops:
Carefully nestle the pork chops back into the pan among the apples and onions. This allows all those delicious flavors to mingle!
7. Cover and Finish Cooking:
Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let everything cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the apples and onions are tender.
8. Add Acidity (Optional):
If you’d like a touch of brightness, stir in 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice just before serving.
9. Serve:
Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme, if desired. Serve the pork chops hot, spooning the sweet apples and savory onions over the top. Enjoy every bite of your hearty and flavorful meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they tend to cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Type of Apples Work Best?
Gala or Fuji apples are great for this dish because they are sweet and hold their shape. You can also use Granny Smith for added tartness or Honeycrisp for a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork chops and the apple-onion mixture in advance. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to moisten.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
