I know dinner planning can sometimes feel like a chore, but it doesn’t have to be. Today, I’m sharing two fantastic pork chop recipes that are both easy to make and full of flavor. These simple pork chop dinners are perfect for any weeknight meal.
Whether you like a sweet and tangy glaze or comforting apple flavors, I’ve got you covered. You’ll find clear steps to help you get a great meal on the table without fuss.
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Quick Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops
Are you looking for a quick and flavorful dinner? These balsamic glazed pork chops are simple to make and packed with a sweet and tangy sauce that everyone will love.
Key Ingredients & Cooking Tips
- Balsamic Vinegar: Use a good quality balsamic for the best glaze. It really makes the sauce shine and gives it that deep, rich flavor.
- Pork Chop Doneness: Pork chops dry out easily. Cook them until they are just done (internal temperature 145°F) for tender, juicy results.
What You Need for Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
⏱️ Time: 25 minutes🍽️ Yields: 4 servings
How to Make Balsamic Pork Chops
Step 1: Prepare Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides to build flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Chops
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the pork chops for 4-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
To the same skillet, add balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Bring this mixture to a simmer, stirring often, until the sauce thickens into a beautiful glaze. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Return the cooked pork chops to the skillet. Turn them gently to coat them completely in the warm balsamic glaze. Serve immediately, and you can garnish with fresh parsley if you like.
📝 Final Note
Leftover balsamic pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to keep them tender.
Comforting Apple Cider Pork Chops
These apple cider pork chops bring warm, comforting flavors to your dinner table. They are perfect for a cozy meal, especially when apples are in season, and they come together easily.
Key Ingredients & Preparation Tips
- Apple Cider Choice: Choose unsweetened apple cider for the best balance of flavors in your sauce. Apple juice tends to be too sweet for this recipe.
- Adding Apples: Sliced apples cooked along with the pork chops add extra fruitiness and a pleasant texture. Try a tart apple like Granny Smith for a good contrast.
What You Need for Apple Cider Pork Chops
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 3/4-inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 large apple, cored and sliced (e.g., Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
⏱️ Time: 30 minutes🍽️ Yields: 4 servings
How to Make Apple Cider Pork Chops
Step 1: Season Pork
Pat the boneless pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. This step is important for building flavor.
Step 2: Cook Pork
Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side until they are nicely browned. Remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Cook Aromatics and Apples
Add the thinly sliced onion and apple to the same skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion and apple slices have softened.
Step 4: Build Sauce and Finish
Pour in the apple cider and chicken broth. Stir in the dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Return the pork chops to the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and tender.
📝 Final Note
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, wild rice, or even some roasted sweet potatoes to soak up all that delicious apple cider sauce.
