Pork Chop With Roasted Apples Recipe Herbes De Provence

There’s something magical about the combination of savory pork chops and the natural sweetness of roasted apples. This dish, elevated with the aromatic blend of Herbes de Provence, brings a touch of French countryside charm to our table. It’s a perfect balance of flavors that feels both rustic and refined.

We love how this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting yet elegant meal. The tender pork chops soak up the herbaceous seasoning while the caramelized apples add a delightful contrast. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.

Contents

Ingredients

For this Pork Chop with Roasted Apples Recipe Herbes de Provence, we’ll gather a blend of fresh ingredients that harmonize savory and sweet flavors. Each component contributes to the dish’s rich, aromatic profile.

For The Pork Chops

4 bone-in pork chops (1 inch thick, about 6–8 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For The Roasted Apples

3 large Honeycrisp apples (or another firm, sweet variety), peeled, cored, and sliced into 1/2-inch wedges
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

For The Herbes de Provence Seasoning

1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, finely crushed
1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds, crushed
1/4 teaspoon lavender flowers (optional, for traditional flair)

This carefully chosen combination will infuse the pork chops with an irresistible herbal fragrance and complement the roasted apples for a truly satisfying experience.

Tools And Equipment

To execute this Pork Chop With Roasted Apples Recipe Herbes De Provence perfectly, having the right tools at your disposal is essential. These ensure precision, enhance efficiency, and help bring out the best flavors. Below is a detailed list and explanation of the tools we’ll be using:

Essential Tools

Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Pan: This provides even heating and helps achieve the perfect sear on the pork chops, locking in their juices.
Baking Tray: Necessary for roasting the apples to a golden, caramelized perfection. Use a rimmed baking sheet to prevent juices from spilling.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: For slicing the apples into even wedges and trimming any excess fat from the pork.
Cutting Board: Sturdy and large enough to comfortably prep both pork and apples.
Tongs: To safely flip the pork chops during searing and handle them with care.
Mixing Bowl: For tossing the apple slices with oil and seasonings before roasting.
Small Whisk or Fork: Useful for blending Herbes de Provence with any liquid ingredients.
Meat Thermometer: Crucial for ensuring the pork chops are cooked to the perfect temperature of 145°F internally.
Aluminum Foil: Ideal for tenting over the pork chops while they rest to keep them warm and juicy.
Silicone Spatula: For scraping up the caramelized bits in the skillet to incorporate into your sauce or for extra flavor.

Optional Tools For Perfect Results

Tool	Purpose
Mandoline Slicer	Ensures uniform apple slices for even roasting.
Basting Brush	For applying any olive oil or additional herb mixtures directly over the pork or apples.
Fine Mesh Strainer	If making a pan sauce, use this to strain for smooth consistency.

Directions

Let’s bring the savory pork chops and roasted apples with Herbes de Provence to life step-by-step. Follow these instructions carefully to achieve a perfect balance of flavors.

Prep

Prepare the pork chops:

Pat the bone-in pork chops (about 4, 1-inch thick) dry with paper towels.
Season each side generously with kosher salt, black pepper, and Herbes de Provence (around 2 teaspoons divided across all chops). Set aside.

Slice the apples:

Take 2 Honeycrisp apples, core them, and slice into ½-inch thick wedges. Keep the skin intact for texture and visual appeal.
Toss the apple slices with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and ½ teaspoon cinnamon in a small mixing bowl.

Preheat the oven:

Heat your oven to 400°F.
Place a cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan on the stove over medium-high heat to prepare for searing the chops.

Mince garlic and chop herbs:

Mince 2 cloves of garlic.
Chop an additional teaspoon of fresh thyme or rosemary if desired for a garnish.

Ingredient	Preparation Step
Bone-in pork chops	Pat dry, season with salt, pepper, herbs
Honeycrisp apples	Core, slice into ½-inch wedges, toss in oil
Herbes de Provence	Divide evenly to season the pork chops
Garlic	Mince
Fresh thyme/rosemary	Optional garnish – chop if using more

Cook

Now that our pork chops are seasoned and the apples prepared, it’s time to bring everything together with perfectly executed cooking techniques. Follow these steps to create tender, flavorful pork chops and beautifully caramelized roasted apples.

Searing The Pork Chops

Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and allow it to shimmer.
Place the seasoned pork chops into the skillet, ensuring no overlap. Let them sear without moving for 4 minutes to create a golden-brown crust.
Flip the chops carefully using tongs and sear the other side for an additional 4 minutes.
Reduce the heat to medium and add 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the skillet. Use a basting spoon to coat the chops in the flavored butter for enhanced depth.
Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chop; it should register 145°F. If not, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes per side. Remove and set the chops aside on a plate, tenting them with foil to rest and retain juiciness.

Roasting The Apples

Preheat your oven to 400°F (if not already done during preparation).
Arrange the apple wedges on a lined baking tray for even heat distribution. Drizzle with the cinnamon-infused olive oil prepared earlier, ensuring even coating.
Roast the apples in the oven for 15-18 minutes, flipping midway for even caramelization. Keep an eye on the color; they should be golden and tender when pierced with a fork.
Once roasted, remove the tray and sprinkle the apples lightly with coarse sea salt to accentuate their sweetness.

Combining And Finishing

Return the cast iron skillet to medium heat and place the rested pork chops back into the pan.
Add the roasted apples around the edges of the skillet, creating a visually appealing arrangement.
Pour any juices collected on the resting plate back into the pan. Allow the flavors to meld together for 2-3 minutes, stirring the apples gently to coat them in the pan juices.
Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped thyme and an optional pinch of Herbes de Provence for a final flavor boost.
Serve directly from the skillet, ensuring each plate receives one juicy pork chop and a generous portion of caramelized apples.

Assemble

It’s time to bring everything together for this elegant yet comforting Pork Chop with Roasted Apples Recipe Herbes De Provence. Assembling the dish properly ensures the flavors meld beautifully and the presentation impresses. Follow these steps to make it perfect:

Arrange the roasted apples: Once the apples are perfectly caramelized, we evenly spread them over a large serving platter or a board. Their golden color with flecks of cinnamon creates a warm, inviting base.
Place the pork chops: Gently lay the rested pork chops over the apple layer. Ensuring they align neatly on top helps the herbal crust shine visually while letting the juices flow into the apples beneath.
Drizzle the butter-garlic mixture: Using the melted butter from searing, we drizzle it generously over the pork chops and apples. This step adds richness and enhances the herbal and sweet notes.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Scatter freshly chopped thyme, rosemary, and a touch of lavender delicately over the entire dish. The vibrant green garnish brightens the presentation and reinforces the Herbes de Provence fragrance.
Optional finishing touches: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt for a sophisticated finish and a pop of texture. If desired, you can add a drizzle of apple cider glaze to amplify the sweetness.

Presentation Idea

To elevate the meal’s visual appeal, consider serving it on a rustic wooden board or in a cast iron skillet surrounded by roasted vegetables. You can even pair it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or crispy Brussels sprouts for a complete, polished plate.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Preparing elements of this Pork Chop With Roasted Apples Recipe with Herbes de Provence ahead of time can streamline your cooking process and ensure a stress-free experience. Here is how we can effectively make this recipe ahead without compromising its savory and sweet flavors or its appealing presentation.

1. Preparing the Pork Chops

Season in Advance: Pat the bone-in pork chops dry, then season evenly with kosher salt, black pepper, and Herbes de Provence. Place them on a wire rack or shallow tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This helps the seasoning infuse into the meat, enhancing the flavor.
Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the pork chops from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even heating during the searing process.

2. Prepping the Apples

Slice Ahead: Slice the Honeycrisp apples into wedges up to 6 hours in advance. To prevent browning, toss the slices in a mixture of 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 1 cup of cold water. Drain and pat dry before roasting.
Toss with Seasoning: Combine the apple slices with olive oil and ground cinnamon. Store in an airtight container and refrigerate if prepping several hours ahead.

3. Preparing Aromatics and Garnishes

Mince Garlic: Mince the garlic cloves and store them in a small airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Chop Fresh Herbs: Chop the fresh parsley or thyme for garnish and keep them wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a resealable bag. This keeps the herbs fresh and vibrant.

4. Pre-Make The Cooking Butter

Garlic-Infused Butter: If you prefer to plan ahead, prepare the garlic-butter mixture up to 1 day in advance. Combine unsalted butter with minced garlic and store it covered in the refrigerator. Melt it gently in the skillet while you sear the pork chops.

5. Partial Cooking Options

If short on time, you can sear the pork chops up to 2 hours ahead. Allow them to cool slightly, then store covered in the refrigerator. Bring them back to room temperature, then finish cooking them in the oven with the apples.

Make-Ahead Timing Summary

Use the table below to reference advance preparation details for each component:

Component	Task	Refrigeration Time	Preparation Tip
Pork chops	Season	Up to 24 hours	Use a wire rack to allow air circulation.
Apples	Slice, Toss with seasoning	Up to 6 hours	Use lemon water to prevent browning.
Garlic	Mince	Up to 2 days	Store in an airtight container.
Fresh herbs	Chop	Up to 2 days	Wrap in a damp paper towel.
Garlic Butter	Prepare	Up to 1 day	Melt before use for best results.
Pork Chops (Seared)	Partial cooking	Up to 2 hours	Allow to cool slightly before refrigeration.

These make-ahead steps ensure a smoother cooking process, giving you more time to focus on assembling a beautifully plated pork chop with roasted apples.

Serving Suggestions

When serving Pork Chop With Roasted Apples Recipe Herbes De Provence, presentation and pairing elevate the dining experience. This dish’s comforting, rustic charm is complemented beautifully by sides and garnishes that enhance its rich, balanced flavors. Here are our top recommendations to make your dish truly unforgettable:

Recommended Side Dishes

Pairing the savory pork chops and sweet roasted apples with the right sides ensures a complete meal. Here are some complementary options:

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture absorbs the garlic-butter drizzle, creating a luscious bite alongside the pork chops.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roast these with olive oil, salt, and a sprinkle of Herbes de Provence to echo the herbal notes in the main dish.
Wild Rice Pilaf: The earthy, nutty flavors of wild rice balance the sweetness of the roasted apples and add a hearty component.
Glazed Baby Carrots: Toss baby carrots in a honey-balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy contrast.

Garnishes and Finishing Touches

To amplify the dish’s presentation and flavor, consider these garnishing ideas:

Fresh Herbs: Scatter chopped rosemary, thyme, or parsley for a pop of color and a burst of freshness that echoes the Herbes de Provence.
Flaky Sea Salt: A light sprinkle enhances the natural flavors of both the pork and apples.
Apple Cider Glaze: Drizzle this over the platter for added sweetness and a shiny finish.
Toasted Almonds or Pecans: Add these for a crunchy texture and nutty dimension.

Beverage Pairings

Complete the dining atmosphere with carefully chosen beverages. Consider these ideas:

For wine lovers, a Chardonnay with buttery notes or a Pinot Noir with soft tannins pairs perfectly with the pork and apples.
For non-alcoholic options, serve sparkling apple cider or a herbal iced tea, like chamomile or lavender.

Plating Tips

“Visual appeal is just as important as taste” when serving this dish. Use these plating tricks to wow your guests:

Arrange the roasted apples in a circular or layered pattern on a large serving platter.
Place the browned pork chops over the apples, slightly overlapping them for an elegant look.
Drizzle the garlic-butter mixture over the entire dish and sprinkle with the chosen garnishes.
Serve directly from your cast iron skillet for a rustic, homestyle presentation.

Quick Reference Table

Element	Suggestions
Side Dishes	Mashed potatoes, Brussels sprouts
Garnishes	Fresh herbs, flaky sea salt
Beverage Pairings	Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, herbal teas
Presentation Tools	Cast iron skillet, rustic wood board

Create a feast for the senses with each of these ideas, ensuring that your Pork Chop With Roasted Apples Recipe Herbes De Provence is the centerpiece of an unforgettable meal.

Storage And Reheating Tips

Properly storing and reheating our Pork Chop with Roasted Apples ensures the dish retains its texture and flavors for the next meal. Follow these guidelines to preserve its quality:

Storing Leftovers

Cool Properly: Allow the pork chops and roasted apples to cool to room temperature before storing. Avoid leaving them out for more than 2 hours.
Separate Storage: Store the pork chops and apples in separate airtight containers to maintain their unique textures and prevent sogginess.
Refrigeration: Place the containers in the refrigerator if you plan to eat them within 3 days.
Freezing (Optional): For longer storage, freeze the pork chops and apples separately. Ensure both are tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in freezer-safe bags to avoid freezer burn. Consume within 2 months for optimal taste.

Here is a quick reference:

Storage Method	Component	Duration	Notes
Refrigeration	Pork chops & apples	Up to 3 days	Use airtight containers.
Freezing	Pork chops & apples	Up to 2 months	Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Instructions

Reheating needs to be done carefully to prevent the pork chops from drying out or the apples losing their caramelized flavor. Here is how to reheat each component:

Pork Chops

Oven Method:

Preheat your oven to 325°F.
Place the pork chops on a baking sheet. Add a splash of chicken broth or apple cider to keep them moist.
Cover with aluminum foil and heat for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

Stovetop Method:

Heat a skillet over low heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil.
Warm the pork chops on each side for about 2 minutes until heated through.

Roasted Apples

Oven Method:

Preheat your oven to 325°F. Spread the apples on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping once to evenly warm and retain their caramelized texture.

Stovetop Method:

Add the apples to a nonstick skillet over low heat.
Stir gently for 3-5 minutes until warmed through, adding a small knob of butter if desired.

Tips for Optimal Results

Avoid Microwave Heating: While it’s tempting, reheating pork chops in the microwave can make them tough and unevenly warmed. Use the oven or stovetop for better results.
Reheat Once Only: Repeated reheating can dry out the pork chops and overcook the apples. Warm only what you plan to eat at one time.
Refresh Flavors: Add fresh herbs or a drizzle of apple cider glaze while reheating to revive the dish’s flavors.

By following these storage and reheating tips, we can enjoy our Pork Chop with Roasted Apples Recipe Herbes de Provence even on the next day without compromising the dish’s incredible taste and texture.

Conclusion

This Pork Chop with Roasted Apples recipe truly celebrates the harmony of savory and sweet flavors, elevated by the timeless elegance of Herbes de Provence. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for any occasion. With thoughtful preparation, the right tools, and attention to detail, we can create a meal that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Whether you’re serving it with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy Brussels sprouts, or a glass of Chardonnay, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of tender pork, caramelized apples, and fragrant herbs brings warmth and satisfaction to the table, leaving everyone eager for the next bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Herbes de Provence, and can I substitute them?

Herbes de Provence is a fragrant blend of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, lavender, and oregano. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with a mix of dried thyme and rosemary for a similar flavor.

Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?

Yes, boneless pork chops can be used. However, bone-in chops tend to be juicier and more flavorful, making them a preferred choice for this recipe.

Which type of apples should I use for roasting?

Honeycrisp apples are recommended for their sweetness and firm texture, but you can also use Fuji or Granny Smith apples as alternatives.

Do I need a cast iron skillet for this recipe?

A cast iron skillet is ideal for even heating and creating a golden crust on the pork chops. If unavailable, a stainless steel skillet can work as a substitute.

What is the ideal cooking temperature for pork chops?

Pork chops should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they’re perfectly cooked and juicy.

How do I prevent apples from browning during prep?

Toss apple slices in lemon water to prevent browning if preparing them in advance. This ensures their freshness and appearance before roasting.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can season the pork chops, slice the apples, mince garlic, and prepare herbs in advance. Store them properly to make cooking faster.

How should I store leftovers?

Cool the pork chops and apples completely before storing them in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for up to two months.

What’s the best way to reheat this dish?

Reheat pork chops in the oven or on the stovetop for the best texture. Avoid microwaving to prevent them from drying out. Refresh with herbs or glaze for added flavor.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

Creamy mashed potatoes, wild rice pilaf, crispy Brussels sprouts, or glazed baby carrots make excellent sides to complement the dish.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! Ensure your spices and Herbes de Provence are certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.