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Quick Apple Cider Pork Chops: Easy 30-Minute Fall Dinner

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These quick apple cider pork chops are a cozy fall dinner that comes together in about 30 minutes. The sweet and tangy apple cider sauce, with a touch of mustard and cream, creates a restaurant-quality meal with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup apple cider, unsweetened
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
  2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully lay the pork chops in the pan in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until deep golden brown.
  3. Flip the pork chops using tongs and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the second side. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Transfer to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the pan and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant, scraping up any browned bits.
  5. Pour in the apple cider and bring to a simmer. Let it bubble for 3-4 minutes until reduced by about half and slightly thickened.
  6. Whisk in the Dijon mustard and thyme sprigs. Simmer for another 1-2 minutes until glossy and thickened. If using cream, stir it in now and warm through for 30 seconds.
  7. Stir in the butter until melted and the sauce is silky. Add the apple cider vinegar and stir. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed.
  8. Return the pork chops to the pan along with any accumulated juices. Spoon sauce over the tops and warm through for about 1 minute. Serve immediately with extra sauce.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, skip the butter and cream and add an extra tablespoon of olive oil. The sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead and reheated. Leftover sauce is great on roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork chops, apple cider, fall dinner, quick dinner, 30-minute meal, pork chop recipe, apple cider sauce

Find it online: https://willarecipes.com/quick-apple-cider-pork-chops-easy-30-minute-fall-dinner/