Description
Herb-Infused Smothered Pork Chops with Apple Cider Glaze are juicy, pan-seared pork chops cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich, savory-sweet sauce made with apple cider, herbs, and caramelized onions. The glaze adds a subtle tang and sweetness that perfectly complements the tender, herbed pork.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- 1/2 tsp rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup apple cider (not vinegar)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Add sliced onions and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring often, until caramelized and tender.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in apple cider, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Return pork chops to the skillet, spoon sauce over them, and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through (internal temperature 145°F / 63°C).
- If a thicker glaze is desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- For extra depth, add a splash of apple cider vinegar to balance the sweetness.
- Boneless pork chops can also be used — just reduce cook time slightly.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted sweet potatoes or green beans.
- The sauce thickens more as it cools, so don’t over-reduce it while cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared and Simmered
- Cuisine: Southern American