Skillet Pork Chops with Apples & Onion

Pork and apples are a timeless combination, and it’s a cozy comfort food that combines a wide range of flavor profiles. Hearty, rich, sweet and sour, apples bring a fruity and juicy flavor that perfectly offsets the neat’s richness. In our pork chops with apples and onions recipe we sear the pork chops first to help them develop a caramelized, crispy crust, then we simmer them along with the apples, onions and a splash of balsamic vinegar. It’s a warm and inviting dish that’s packed with flavor, and best of all, it takes just 20 minutes to come together.

Pork Chops with Apples and Onions Ingredients

• Pork loin chops: These flavorful cuts of meat are typically pretty lean, and they work really well when seared in a hot pan or kissed on a hot grill.
• Apples: Apples and pork are a classic combination. The juicy fruit is both tart and sweet, which helps cut through the richness of the meat and complements the savory notes with fruity flavor.
• Onion: In this pork chops with onions and apples recipe we sear the onions in a hot pan, then layer them with apples, pork chop and seasonings. It lets the onions develop a sweet, caramelized flavor that perfectly complements the meat.
• Balsamic vinaigrette: Balsamic vinegar is dark and aromatic with deeply sweet and sour notes that taste vibrant and complex when paired with mild meats like pork.

Directions 

Step 1: Brown the chops

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Place a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, then brown pork chops on both sides for about four minutes. Once browned, remove the chops from the pan.

Step 2: Simmer with apples and onions

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In the same skillet, combine the apples, onion and water. Place the pork chops over the apple mixture, then drizzle the chops with vinaigrette. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, until a thermometer inserted in the center of the chops reads 145°F. It should take about three to five minutes.

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Pork Chops with Apples and Onions Variations

Bake it instead: We’re making this recipe on the stovetop, but you can absolutely make it in the oven too. For best results, sear the pork chops in a hot pan then transfer them to a casserole dish. Layer in the apples and onions and bake until the onions are soft and the pork registers an internal temperature of 145°.

Add some spice: This is a sweet and savory dish, but it doesn’t have a ton of heat. If you like your dishes spicy, try adding some hot peppers to this one. Peppers such as jalapeño, poblanos or red Thai chiles would be a great addition here. Simply slice them and add to the pan in step two, then proceed with the recipe as outlined.

How to Store Pork Chops with Apples and Onions

If you have any pork chops with onions and apples left over, you can absolutely store it in the refrigerator. Let the leftovers cool down to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid. Store in the refrigerator for about three to five days and reheat as needed.

How do you reheat pork chops with apples and onions?

Leftover pork chops are best when reheated in the oven. To do so, transfer any leftovers to an oven-safe casserole dish and place in an oven that’s been preheated to 220°. Let the pork chops heat in the oven until completely warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes depending on how much you have left over.

Pork Chops with Apples and Onions Tips

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Can I use pork tenderloin instead?

Yes. You can use pork tenderloin instead of pork chops here. Pork tenderloin is a boneless cut of meat that’s super easy to cook, and it can be prepared in a pan, on the grill or in an oven. It’s a great substitute for pork chops and can easily be used in place of them.

Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts?

If you’re hosting guests that don’t eat pork, you can make this same recipe with chicken breast instead. In fact, you don’t have to change the recipe much at all—simply swap out chicken breasts for the pork and proceed with the recipe as outlined. Be aware that cook times may vary, and chicken must be cooked until an internal thermometer registers at least 165°.

What can I serve this dish with?

This hearty entree is fantastic when served with mashed potatoes, egg noodles or a hunk of crusty bread. The juices from the apples, pork and onions yield a savory sauce, so serving it with something starchy that can soak up the juices is a great way to enhance the dish.