Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and nicely seared.
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the sliced apples and cook until slightly softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Pour in the apple cider vinegar and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Stir in the honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, and chicken broth.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in the fresh thyme (if using).
- Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the honey mustard apple sauce.
- Spoon some of the sauce over the pork chops.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 8-12 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure!
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Don't overcook the pork chops, use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C). Adjust the sweetness by reducing the honey if desired. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. The honey mustard apple sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store leftover pork chops and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed.
