Print

Savory Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops Recipe with Fresh Thyme

savory apple cider glazed pork chops - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy recipe featuring bone-in pork chops glazed with a balanced apple cider reduction and fresh thyme, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
  • 1 cup (240 ml) fresh apple cider
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, plus extra sprigs for garnish
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat the bone-in pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Let them rest at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, mix 1 cup apple cider, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard until sugar dissolves. Set aside.
  3. Heat a heavy skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil. When shimmering, add the pork chops without crowding the pan. Sear for 4-5 minutes on the first side until a deep golden crust forms.
  4. Flip the chops using tongs and immediately add the minced garlic around the pan. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, basting occasionally with oil and pan juices. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
  5. Transfer the chops to a plate and tent loosely with foil to rest while finishing the glaze.
  6. Pour the apple cider mixture into the same skillet over medium heat. Scrape up browned bits and simmer gently until thickened and syrupy, about 8-10 minutes, coating the back of a spoon.
  7. Stir in 2 tablespoons unsalted butter until melted and glossy. Remove from heat and add 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, stirring to release aroma without cooking it down.
  8. Return the pork chops to the pan and spoon the glaze over them, coating well. Serve immediately, garnished with extra thyme sprigs if desired.

Notes

If glaze becomes too thick, stir in a splash of apple cider or water to loosen. Avoid overcooking pork chops; carryover heat will finish cooking during resting. For dairy-free, substitute butter with neutral oil like avocado or extra olive oil. Use fresh thyme added at the end to preserve brightness. Boneless pork chops can be used but watch cooking time to avoid dryness.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork chops, apple cider glaze, fresh thyme, quick dinner, savory pork, easy recipe, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://juliamadeit.com/savory-apple-cider-glazed-pork-chops-recipe-with-fresh-thyme-easy-and-perfect-for-dinner/