Grilled Pork Chops with Apple Glaze

Grilled Pork Chops with Apple Glaze is a perfect combination of savory and sweet, showcasing tender, juicy pork chops brushed with a luscious apple glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. The naturally sweet glaze complements the smoky, charred flavors of the meat, creating a dish that is elegant enough for a special dinner yet simple enough for a weeknight meal.

This recipe highlights the versatility of apples beyond desserts, transforming them into a bright, flavorful glaze that elevates every bite. With minimal prep and a short cooking time, it’s an approachable yet impressive dish that will become a staple in your recipe collection.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it balances sweet and savory perfectly. The pork chops stay tender and juicy, while the apple glaze adds a light, fruity brightness that pairs wonderfully with fall-inspired sides like roasted vegetables or mashed sweet potatoes. It’s simple, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Perfectly grilled pork with juicy texture
• Sweet and tangy apple glaze enhances flavor
• Quick and easy to prepare
• Great for family dinners or entertaining guests
• Can be paired with a variety of side dishes

Preparation Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 350–400 calories per serving

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American / Grill

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Apple Glaze

• 1 cup unsweetened apple juice or apple cider
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• Pinch of salt

Optional Garnish

• Fresh thyme or parsley
• Thin apple slices

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the apple glaze by combining ingredients in a small saucepan and simmering until slightly thickened.
2. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
4. Grill pork chops 4–6 minutes per side, brushing with glaze during the last few minutes.
5. Remove pork chops from the grill, let rest, and serve with extra glaze.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Make the Apple Glaze

• In a small saucepan, combine apple juice, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and salt.
• Simmer over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Pork Chops

• Pat pork chops dry and brush both sides with olive oil.
• Season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

• Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high (around 400°F).

Step 4: Grill the Pork Chops

• Place pork chops on the grill and cook 4–6 minutes per side for 1-inch chops, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
• During the last 2–3 minutes of grilling, brush pork chops with apple glaze on both sides.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

• Remove pork chops from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes.
• Drizzle remaining glaze over the pork chops.
• Garnish with fresh thyme or apple slices if desired.

How to Serve

• Serve alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or wild rice
• Pair with a crisp green salad for a lighter option
• Use the apple glaze as a dipping sauce or drizzle over grilled veggies

Recipe Tips

• Let the pork chops rest after grilling to retain juices
• Use bone-in chops for extra flavor
• Watch the glaze closely to avoid burning due to honey content
• Adjust sweetness with more or less honey depending on preference

Variations

Spiced Apple Glaze

Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for a warm, fall-inspired flavor.

Maple-Apple Glaze

Substitute honey with maple syrup for a richer, caramelized sweetness.

Savory Herb Version

Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the glaze for extra depth.

Pan-Seared Version

Cook pork chops in a skillet instead of grilling; finish with glaze in the pan.

Glazed Pork with Fruit

Top with sautéed apple slices or pears for a restaurant-style presentation.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator

• Store cooked pork chops (without glaze) in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Glaze can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 1 week

Freezer

• Freeze cooked pork chops (without glaze) for up to 2 months
• Thaw overnight before reheating

Reheating

• Reheat gently in a skillet or oven
• Add extra glaze while reheating to restore flavor and moisture

Special Equipment Needed

• Grill or grill pan
• Small saucepan for glaze
• Meat thermometer
• Basting brush

Conclusion

Grilled Pork Chops with Apple Glaze is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers juicy, flavorful pork with a sweet and tangy finish. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this recipe combines the smoky charm of the grill with the natural sweetness of apples, creating a meal that’s sure to impress. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you have a hearty, comforting dish that’s both delicious and unforgettable.