Get ready to transform your dinner routine with the most mouthwatering, ridiculously easy pork chops recipe that combines the perfect balance of savory and sweet! Imagine tender, juicy pork chops nestled alongside caramelized apples and onions, creating a dish so delicious it'll have your family begging for seconds. This American-style classic is not just a meal, it's a culinary experience that takes just 30 minutes from start to finish – making it the ultimate weeknight dinner solution for busy home cooks who refuse to compromise on flavor.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 2 apples, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 pork chops, 2 apples (sliced), 1 onion (sliced), 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This will help enhance the flavor of the meat.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the pork chops to ensure a nice sear.
- Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Next, add the sliced apples to the skillet with the onions and sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Stir gently to combine and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
- Return the cooked pork chops to the skillet, nestling them among the apples and onions. Allow everything to cook together for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Once done, remove from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This will help retain the juices in the pork chops.
- Serve the pork chops topped with the apple and onion mixture. Enjoy your easy pork chops and apples!
Tips
- Pat your pork chops completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden-brown sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that pork chops reach the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
- Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep them juicy and tender.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet – cook in batches if necessary to get that beautiful caramelization.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider or a sprinkle of fresh thyme to the apple-onion mixture.
- If you prefer thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of butter or a splash of chicken broth when cooking the apples and onions.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 85mg