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Savory Juicy Baked Pork Chops with Apple Cider Glaze

baked pork chops apple cider glaze - featured image

A quick and easy baked pork chops recipe featuring a sticky, sweet apple cider glaze that locks in juices and delivers a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick, 68 oz each)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 cup apple cider (fresh or store-bought, unsweetened)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
  2. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels, rub both sides with olive oil, and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it reduce by about half, approximately 10-12 minutes.
  4. If a thicker glaze is desired, whisk in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until glossy and thickened.
  5. Place the pork chops in a baking dish or oven-safe skillet and pour half of the glaze over them, coating evenly.
  6. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through baking, baste the chops with more glaze and flip each chop to coat the other side. Aim for an internal temperature of 145Β°F (63Β°C).
  7. Remove from oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  8. Serve warm with remaining glaze drizzled over or on the side.

Notes

Pat pork chops dry before seasoning to ensure better browning. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; remove chops at 145Β°F (63Β°C). Reduce glaze slowly to avoid burning. Flip and baste chops halfway through baking for even glaze distribution. Adjust baking time based on chop thickness. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork chops, baked pork chops, apple cider glaze, easy dinner, savory pork, juicy pork chops, weeknight meal, gluten-free pork chops