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Flavorful Whiskey Glazed Pork Chops with Easy Apple Compote

whiskey glazed pork chops - featured image

Tender pork chops glazed with a smoky, sweet whiskey sauce paired with a gently spiced apple compote, creating a cozy and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick, 68 oz each)
  • 1/2 cup whiskey or bourbon (120 ml)
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed (65 g)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (15 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (15 ml)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (28 g)
  • 2 medium apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (1.3 g)
  • Zest from 1/2 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
  2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add diced apples, cinnamon, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes until apples soften but still hold shape. Remove from heat and keep warm.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add pork chops and sear without moving for 4-5 minutes until deeply browned. Flip and sear the other side for 3-4 minutes.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Push chops to the side. Add minced garlic to empty space and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Carefully pour in whiskey (stand back as it might flame up). Stir in brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Simmer gently, stirring often, for 5-7 minutes until thickened and sticky. Add a splash of water if glaze thickens too fast.
  5. Spoon whiskey glaze over pork chops, turning to coat well. Cover skillet loosely and cook an additional 3-4 minutes until chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  6. Remove pork chops to a plate and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 5 minutes. Serve topped with warm apple compote.

Notes

Dry pork chops well before searing for a better crust. Keep heat medium when simmering glaze to avoid burning. Let chops rest after cooking to redistribute juices. Apple compote can be made ahead and reheated gently. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.

Nutrition

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