Crockpot Pork Chops with Apples and Onions Recipe
One of the appealing aspects of this recipe is its use of seasonal ingredients that not only taste wonderful but also bring numerous health benefits to the table. Apples, for instance, are a quintessential fall fruit, rich in dietary fiber and vitamin C. They promote heart health, aid digestion, and have been linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases. Combined with the lean protein of chicken and the aromatic properties of herbs, this dish is not only flavorful but also a smart choice for health-conscious eaters.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes (LOW) or 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes (HIGH)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
1. Chicken Breasts:
2. Apples:
3. Onions and Garlic:
4. Herbs (Sage and Thyme):
5. Apple Cider vs. Apple Juice:
6. Optional Ingredients:
Instructions
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1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Properly seasoning the chicken is essential for infusing flavor. Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the seasoning adhere better. Generously season with salt and pepper, and consider adding a sprinkle of paprika or garlic powder for an extra flavor boost.
2. The Optional Sautéing Step:
While the crockpot allows for a hands-off cooking experience, some recipes call for sautéing the chicken before placing it in the crockpot. This step enhances the flavor by creating a caramelized crust on the chicken, which adds depth to the final dish. However, if you’re pressed for time, you can skip this step and still achieve a delicious result.
3. Layering Ingredients in the Crockpot:
When it comes to layering your ingredients in the crockpot, the order matters. Start by placing the chopped onions and garlic at the bottom, as they require longer to cook. Next, add the seasoned chicken breasts on top, followed by the sliced apples and any additional ingredients like dried cranberries. Pour the apple cider over everything, allowing it to seep into the layers and create a flavorful sauce as it cooks.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for better texture.
- Browning the pork chops first adds depth of flavor but can be skipped for convenience.
- Slice onions thinly so they melt beautifully into the sauce.
- Dijon mustard adds essential depth; don’t omit it.
- Adjust sweetness by substituting brown sugar with maple syrup.
- Try using apple cider instead of chicken broth for enhanced apple flavor.
- Add baby carrots or sweet potatoes for a heartier one-pot meal.
- Prep ingredients the night before for faster weekday cooking.
Keywords: crockpot pork chops, slow cooker pork chops with apples, fall recipes, apple pork chops, one-pot meal, easy pork dinner
