If you're searching for a dinner that's bursting with flavor and takes minimal effort, these Juicy Apple Butter Pork Chops will win over your taste buds every time! Imagine tender, golden-seared pork chops bathed in a glossy, sweet-and-savory apple butter sauce that lends irresistible caramelized edges and a cozy aroma.

Every bite is juicy, succulent, and packed with comfort, making this a must-try recipe for busy weeknights, fall gatherings, or whenever you crave something that feels special but couldn't be easier. The apple butter transforms simple pork into pure magic with its rich, fruity tang and velvety sheen.

I fell in love with this dish after a trip to an orchard and it's become a seasonal favorite in our house. Grab your skillet-your new favorite pork chop recipe is ready in under an hour!

Juicy Apple Butter Pork Chops plated with apples and fresh herbs

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Incredibly quick and easy for busy weeknights-just one skillet needed!
Tender, juicy pork chops smothered in a luscious apple butter glaze.
Crowd-pleasing sweet and savory flavors with a touch of cozy fall nostalgia.
Perfect for impressing guests or making family dinner feel extra special.

Key Ingredients for Juicy Apple Butter Pork Chops

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Pork Chops

Bone-in or boneless pork chops are the star here. Choose chops about 1-inch thick for the juiciest results-they'll stay tender during searing and finish perfectly in the sauce. Pat them dry before seasoning for a beautiful golden crust. You can use boneless chops if you prefer, just reduce cooking time by a few minutes to avoid drying them out.

Apple Butter

This ingredient brings the sweet, spiced heart of the dish. Apple butter adds deep apple flavor with hints of cinnamon and cloves. Store-bought is great for convenience, but homemade is next-level if you have some on hand. Apple sauce works in a pinch, but for best results, stick with thick apple butter.

Fresh Apples

Thinly sliced apples add natural sweetness and texture. Opt for a crisp variety like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for great flavor and structure. Peel them for a softer texture or leave the skins on for a rustic look. Pears can be swapped in for a fun twist!

Dijon Mustard

A spoonful of Dijon sharpens the sauce and cuts through sweetness, giving depth and balance. Whole grain mustard can be used for a rustic feel, or yellow mustard in a pinch (but with a milder result).

Fresh Thyme

A sprinkle of fresh thyme invigorates the whole dish with herby brightness. Strip the leaves off the stems and sprinkle over the finished chops. Dried thyme works too, just use about half as much.

Juicy Apple Butter Pork Chops cooking process

Instructions for Juicy Apple Butter Pork Chops

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Sear the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until they're golden brown. Remove chops to a plate (they don't need to be cooked through yet).

Sauté the Apples

In the same skillet, add the sliced apples. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until just starting to soften and caramelize around the edges. This step builds flavor and gives the sauce a beautiful texture.

Make the Apple Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the apple butter, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for maximum flavor. Let the sauce come to a gentle simmer, then stir in the butter and half the thyme leaves.

Simmer Pork Chops in the Sauce

Nestle the seared pork chops and any juices back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over each chop. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 6-8 minutes, or until the pork chops reach 145°F internal temperature and are cooked through. Spoon the apples and sauce over the chops as they finish simmering.

Finish and Serve

Uncover the skillet and sprinkle with the remaining fresh thyme (and a pinch of cayenne if desired). Serve the pork chops hot, smothered in sauce and apples, right from the skillet or on a platter.

Recipe Variations

Make It Gluten-Free

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you choose a gluten-free chicken broth and ensure your apple butter doesn't contain any hidden gluten sources.

Spicy Apple Butter Pork Chops

If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers. You can also stir in a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger for extra zing.

Swap the Protein

Chicken breasts or boneless skinless thighs work beautifully in place of pork chops for a lighter alternative. Just adjust cook time to ensure your chicken is juicy, not dry.

Elegant Touch: Finish with Brandy

To make this dish dinner-party worthy, splash 2 tablespoons of brandy into the pan after sautéing the apples and let it cook off before adding the rest of the sauce ingredients.

Creamy Apple Butter Sauce

For an even richer finish, stir in a splash of heavy cream during the last minute of simmering the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Juicy Apple Butter Pork Chops with creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter rice to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. For a pop of color and balance, add roasted green beans, sautéed spinach, or a crisp autumn salad on the side. Garnish with extra fresh thyme and a few thin apple slices for a beautiful presentation.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm pork chops and sauce in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in short bursts, covered, until warmed through. Freezing is possible-wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Juicy Apple Butter Pork Chops (FAQ)

Q: Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?

A: Yes! Boneless pork chops work great-just reduce the simmering time by a couple of minutes to avoid overcooking.

Q: What is the best apple variety for the apples in this recipe?

A: Crisp apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith are ideal-they hold their shape well and add a sweet-tart balance.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: You can sear the pork chops and prep the sauce ingredients in advance, but for best results, finish cooking just before serving so everything stays juicy and fresh.

This really is the easiest way to bring a restaurant-quality pork dinner to your table! The sweet and savory apple butter glaze turns simple ingredients into a memorable meal. Try these Juicy Apple Butter Pork Chops and let me know how your family liked them-leave a comment and rating below!