These Cinnamon Apple Pork Chops are a delicious and simple gluten free dinner recipe that's made in under 30 minutes. Pan seared pork chops are topped with carmelized cinnamon apples and warm spices then paired with a side of rice, mashed potatoes or whatever you choose. This cozy meal is sweet and savory, and perfect for a chilly Fall evening.
This dish brings together classic seasonal ingredients- fresh apples, cinnamon, maple syrup, and thyme to create a balanced and cozy flavor. The natural sweetness of the apples pairs sp well with tender pork chops, making this a family-friendly meal everyone will love. Plus, because everything cooks in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze. It's also naturally gluten free, making it a great option for anyone with Celiac Disease or gluten intolerance.
Ingredients You'll Need to Make this Cinnamon Apple Pork Chops Recipe
- Pork Chops. Bone-in or thin sliced.
- Fresh Apples. Sliced thin or in bite-sized chunks, however you prefer! I love honey crisp apples this time of year. Granny Smith apples also nice and crisp and won't turn to mush when cooking.
- Spices. Salt & pepper to season the pork chops, then you'll need some cinnamon and nutmeg for the apples.
- Pure Maple Syrup. Add more or less depending on desired sweetness.
- Butter or Coconut Oil. I like to use a combo of both. I saute the pork chops in butter because I like the flavor it gives...then I simmer the apples in coconunt oil.
These ingredients work together to create a comforting, caramelized apple topping and a flavorful pan sauce that reduces beautifully.
Tips for the Best Pork Chops
- Don't overcook the pork. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for perfectly tender chops.
- Use crisp apples that hold their shape when cooked.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup depending on your taste.
- Make it dairy-free by swapping the butter for coconut oil or vegan butter.
Looking for more cozy gluten free dinner recipes? I think you'll love this One Pan Chicken Sausage Risotto Skillet Dinner and this Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken and Pasta (Gluten Free)
How to make Cinnamon Apple Pork Chops
- Saute: Heat a skillet to medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Season your pork chops with salt. pepper, and a pinch of cinnamon then sear them in a hot cast-iron or stainless steel skillet until golden on both sides. Remove the pork chops from the pan.
- Make the Cinnamon Apples: Next, to the same skillet, add coconut oil or more butte. Add the apple slices, brown sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg. Stir thoroughly then simmer on low until apples are tender. As the apples cook down, they become tender and glossy, soaking up the flavors of warm spices.
- Rest and serve: Lastly, place the pork chops back in the skillet with the apples and warm through for about 5 minutes. Serve immediately- top with fresh thyme before serving for a bright herbal finish.
Serving Suggestions
These fall-inspired Cinnamon Apple Pork Chops pair wonderfully with:
- A simple fall salad with cranberries and pecans
- Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Rice or quinoa
Let's eat!
Have you tried this recipe? Be sure to leave a comment below and tag me on instagram @thrivingglutenfree so I can see how it turned out!
Cinnamon Apple Pork Chops
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place a large skillet(I like to make this recipe in cast iron) over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Season pork with salty, pepper and a pinch of cinnamon then add the pork chops to the skillet and sear 4-5 minutes on each side. The pork's internal temperature needs to be 145°F to be considered done. Remove from the skillet.
- Add 2 tablespoon of coconut oil to the same skillet on low heat. Deglaze the pan as it melts. Add apples, maple syrup, cinnamon and nutmeg. Cook and stir until the apples are tender.
- Add the pork chops back to the pan, and cook for about 5 minutes longer until everything is warmed through. Serve immediately with rice, mashed potatoes or any side of your choosing.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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