Irresistible Maple Glazed Pork Chops with Apples Recipe

Maple glazed pork chops with apples are a heavenly dish that combines the savory goodness of tender pork with the sweet, caramelized notes of maple syrup and fresh apples. Imagine sitting down to a plate where succulent pork meets the delightful crunch of juicy apples, creating a flavor explosion that dances on your palate. This dish doesn’t just taste amazing; it fills your kitchen with an aroma so enticing that even the neighbor’s cat will try to sneak in for a bite.

I remember the first time I made maple glazed pork chops with apples for my family. It was one of those evenings where I wanted to impress everyone but also keep it simple. As the chops sizzled in the pan, and the sweet smell of maple wafted through the air, my kids rushed into the kitchen faster than they do when dessert is served. Now, this dish is our go-to for cozy family dinners and even holiday gatherings. Get ready because your taste buds are about to embark on an unforgettable adventure!

Ingredients for maple glazed pork chops with apples

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pork Chops: Choose bone-in or boneless chops; both work well, but bone-in adds extra flavor.
• Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for that authentic sweet flavor; avoid artificial syrups like it’s your ex.
• Fresh Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples provide a tartness that balances perfectly with sweetness.
• Brown Sugar: Adds depth and caramel-like richness that enhances the glaze.
• Cinnamon: A sprinkle of cinnamon takes this dish from ordinary to extraordinary—trust me!

For seasoning:

• Salt and Pepper: Simple yet crucial; season generously for best results.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make maple glazed pork chops with apples

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Pan

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat while you season your pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Sear Those Chops

Add a bit of oil to your hot skillet and place the pork chops in it. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. You want them looking like they just came back from a tanning session.

Step 3: Prepare the Glaze

In a bowl, mix together the maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt—this will be the magical elixir that transforms your chops into something divine.

Step 4: Add Apples

Once seared, remove the chops briefly and toss sliced apples into the same pan. Cook them until soft (about 3-4 minutes) before returning those beautiful chops back into their apple paradise.

Step 5: Glaze It Up

Pour your glaze over everything in the pan. Let it simmer for about another five minutes until it thickens up like an old-school sitcom plot twist.

Step 6: Serve It Right

Transfer everything onto plates and drizzle any remaining glaze over your juicy creations. Trust me; this is where you want to go extra because nobody likes dry pork!

Enjoy these delightful maple glazed pork chops with apples alongside roasted veggies or creamy mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

First, sear the pork chops in a hot skillet until golden brown. While they rest, sauté the apples and onions in the same pan. Once caramelized, add maple syrup to create a lush glaze that will take your dish to the next level.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the pork chops for chicken or even tofu if you’re feeling adventurous. You could also experiment with different fruits like pears or peaches, and add spices like cinnamon for an extra kick of flavor!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover maple glazed pork chops with apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep things juicy.

I remember one night when I served these maple glazed pork chops with apples at a family gathering. The compliments flowed faster than the wine, and my aunt even asked me to make them for her birthday!

FAQs :

What are the best side dishes for maple glazed pork chops with apples?

Pairing maple glazed pork chops with apples enhances the meal’s flavor profile. Consider serving them with creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or a fresh apple salad. The sweetness of the maple glaze complements the acidity of apples and balances well with savory sides. You can also add roasted Brussels sprouts for extra texture and nutrients. A light grain, like quinoa or wild rice, can complete the plate beautifully. Overall, choose sides that harmonize with the dish while adding nutritional variety.

How do I store leftover maple glazed pork chops with apples?

To store leftover maple glazed pork chops with apples, first allow them to cool to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them within two hours of cooking. Properly stored, they will last for 3 to 4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing the pork chops. Wrap each chop tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly.

Can I make maple glazed pork chops with apples ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare maple glazed pork chops with apples ahead of time. Cook the pork chops according to your recipe but avoid glazing them until you’re ready to serve. Store cooked chops without glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, warm them in a skillet and add the maple glaze just before serving for optimal flavor and texture. This method ensures that your pork remains juicy and delicious.

What can I substitute for apples in this recipe?

If you want to substitute apples in maple glazed pork chops with apples, consider using pears or peaches as alternatives. Both fruits provide a similar sweetness and acidity that complement the maple glaze beautifully. Additionally, you can use dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for a different texture and flavor profile. These substitutions will enhance your dish while maintaining its sweet-savory balance.

Conclusion for maple glazed pork chops with apples :

Maple glazed pork chops with apples is a delightful dish that combines savory and sweet flavors perfectly. By selecting appropriate side dishes and storing leftovers correctly, you can enjoy this meal multiple times without compromising taste. Preparing it ahead of time makes it convenient for busy weeknights while ensuring freshness when served hot. Whether you stick with traditional ingredients or experiment with substitutes, this recipe promises satisfaction every time you make it!

Print

Maple Glazed Pork Chops with Apples

• Author: Lilly
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Searing
• Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

Indulge in tender chicken breast enveloped in a sweet maple glaze, paired with tart apples for an unforgettable dinner experience.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 2 medium Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples, sliced

---

Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil.
3. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until combined.
5. In the same skillet, add sliced apples and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft.
6. Return the seared chicken to the skillet with apples. Pour the glaze over everything.
7. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the glaze thickens.
8. Transfer to plates and drizzle any remaining glaze over the chicken and apples before serving.

---

---

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with glaze (approximately 6 oz)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 49g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider marinating your chicken in a mixture of maple syrup and spices for an hour before cooking. Substitute apples with pears or peaches for different flavor profiles. Leftovers can be reheated gently to maintain juiciness.