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Savory Pan Seared Pork Chops with Easy Apple Cider Mustard Sauce

savory pan seared pork chops - featured image

A quick and easy weeknight meal featuring juicy pan seared pork chops paired with a tangy, creamy apple cider mustard sauce that elevates the dish with bright and comforting flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pork chops, bone-in or boneless, about 1 inch thick (6 oz / 170 g each)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or stock (low sodium preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or half and half
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  2. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon avocado oil. Heat until shimmering but not smoking, about 2 minutes.
  3. Add pork chops to the hot pan, leaving space between them. Cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes until a deep golden crust forms. Flip and cook another 3-4 minutes until internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) for medium doneness. Remove chops and tent loosely with foil to rest.
  4. Lower heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon unsalted butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard and 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard.
  5. Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth and 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, scraping up browned bits. Simmer gently for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  6. Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream and fresh thyme or rosemary if using. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  7. Return pork chops to the pan and spoon sauce over them. Heat through for 1-2 minutes and serve immediately with extra sauce.

Notes

Pat pork chops dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness for juicy results. Rest chops before serving to retain juices. Adjust sauce thickness by simmering longer or adding broth. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut or cashew cream. Can finish chops in a 400°F oven after searing for 8-10 minutes if preferred.

Nutrition

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