Tender Apple Butter Pork Chops (Printable Version)

Tender seared pork chops simmered in rich apple butter sauce with caramelized apples and onions.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meats

01 - 4 bone-in pork chops, 1 inch thick

→ Fruits & Vegetables

02 - 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
03 - 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced

→ Sauce & Pantry

05 - 1/2 cup apple butter
06 - 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
07 - 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
08 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
09 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
10 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

→ Spices & Seasonings

11 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
12 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
13 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
14 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

# Directions:

01 - Pat the pork chops thoroughly dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides with kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika, pressing the spices into the meat to adhere.
02 - Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the butter foams. Add pork chops and sear for 3 minutes per side until deep golden brown. Transfer to a plate and reserve.
03 - In the same skillet, add sliced onions and apples. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized, stirring occasionally. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - In a small bowl, whisk together apple butter, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and ground cinnamon until smooth and fully combined.
05 - Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the apples and onions. Stir well to incorporate any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer.
06 - Return the pork chops and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce over the chops to ensure even coating.
07 - Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes until pork chops reach 145°F internal temperature and are tender throughout.
08 - Remove from heat and let the pork chops rest for 2 to 3 minutes. Serve topped with caramelized apples, onions, and extra sauce from the skillet.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The apple butter creates this incredible sticky glaze that clings to every bite, like candy but somehow still dinner appropriate
  • Everything cooks in one pan, including the sauce that develops while the pork simmers away
  • Comfort food that feels special enough for Sunday dinner but easy enough for Tuesday nights
02 -
  • Dont skip searing the pork first, those browned bits on the bottom of the pan are what gives the sauce its deep flavor
  • Letting the pork rest in the sauce off the heat is crucial, otherwise all those juices run out the second you cut into it
03 -
  • If your apple butter is particularly thick, add a little more chicken broth to thin it out before simmering
  • A meat thermometer takes all the guesswork out, and pork at exactly 145°F is perfectly safe and wonderfully juicy

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