What’s better than regular pork chops? Pork chops with sweet, tender apples!
This classic combo brings together juicy pork and warm, cinnamon-spiced apples for a dinner that feels like fall comfort food at its best. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or having friends over for a casual dinner, this dish hits all the right notes. Trust me, once you try this pairing, plain pork chops just won’t be the same.
Suggestions for Ingredient Substitution
For a vegetarian or vegan option, pork chops can be replaced with firm tofu slices or seitan. Marinate the tofu or seitan in a mixture of soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and spices before cooking to enhance flavor. Adjust cooking time as these alternatives may cook faster than pork. Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth for a fully vegetarian dish, maintaining a similar savory base. For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or arrowroot powder, using half the amount called for in the recipe. These alternatives will still effectively thicken the sauce while keeping the dish gluten-free. When using cornstarch or arrowroot, mix with a small amount of cold liquid before adding to the pan to prevent clumping.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20-25 minutes |
| Total Time | 30-40 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 1200-1400
- Protein: 100-110 g
- Fat: 70-80 g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60 g
Ingredients
For the pork chops:
- salt
- 2 lb pork chops (bone-in, about 1-inch thick, for even cooking)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (I like Bertolli for its mild flavor)
- black pepper
For the apple and onion mixture:
- 2 medium apples (firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work best)
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 pinch nutmeg (freshly grated preferred for more flavor)
- 1/2 small yellow onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (crushed between your fingers to release aroma)
For the sauce:
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium is best to control seasoning)
- 1 1/2 tsp all-purpose flour
Step 1: Season and Sear the Pork Chops
Begin by seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper to taste.
Next, set a skillet over medium heat and add some oil, allowing it to heat up.
Once hot, add the seasoned pork chops and cook them for about 4 minutes on each side, creating a nice sear.
Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside for later.
Step 2: Cook the Onions and Apples
In the same skillet, add sliced onions and apples.
Season them with rosemary, cinnamon, and nutmeg for a fragrant combination.
Cook the mixture until the onions and apples are tender, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent them from sticking to the skillet.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Once the onions and apples are tender, whisk in a bit of flour to the mixture.
This will help thicken the sauce.
Gradually add chicken stock to the pan, stirring constantly to avoid lumps in the sauce.
Step 4: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the cooked pork chops to the skillet, including any drippings left on the plate.
This will enrich the flavor of the sauce.
Continue cooking everything over medium heat until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit, which should take about 2 to 3 more minutes.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Before serving, sample the sauce and season it with additional salt and pepper if needed, adjusting to your taste preferences.
Serve the pork chops hot, generously topped with the flavorful onion and apple sauce.
Enjoy this savory and aromatic dish!
