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Crispy Pork Chops with Apple Cider Glaze: Easy Dinner Recipe

crispy pork chops with apple cider glaze - featured image

These crispy pork chops with apple cider glaze are a quick and easy dinner recipe that turns a happy accident into a memorable meal. With a shatteringly crisp exterior and a sticky, tangy-sweet glaze, they’re perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
  • 1 cup unsweetened apple cider
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  2. Place the flour in a shallow bowl. Dredge each pork chop in the flour, shaking off any excess. Set aside.
  3. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it shimmer until almost smoking.
  4. Carefully lay the pork chops in the hot skillet. Cook without moving for 4 minutes, then flip and cook another 4 minutes for 1-inch thick chops, until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Work in batches if needed.
  5. Transfer the pork chops to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 5 minutes.
  6. Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the pan and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in apple cider and apple cider vinegar, scraping up browned bits. Add honey and thyme sprigs. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened and reduced by half.
  7. Remove thyme sprigs. Whisk in butter until melted and glossy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  8. Return pork chops to the skillet, turning to coat in the glaze. Warm through for about 30 seconds per side.
  9. Serve immediately, spooning any remaining glaze over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme.

Notes

Pat the pork chops completely dry for a crispy crust. Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes after cooking to keep them moist. For extra glaze, increase cider to 1½ cups and honey to 4 tablespoons. The glaze can be made up to 3 days ahead and reheated.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy pork chops, apple cider glaze, easy dinner, pork chop recipe, weeknight dinner, fall recipe