Sweet and Savory Apricot Glazed Pork Chops

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the Apricot Glaze:

• 1/2 cup apricot preserves
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork Chops:

   1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
   2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Cook the Pork Chops:

   1. Add the pork chops to the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

3. Prepare the Apricot Glaze:

   1. In a small saucepan, combine apricot preserves, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, fresh thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using).
   2. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture starts to simmer and thicken slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.

4. Glaze the Pork Chops:

   1. Return the pork chops to the skillet and pour the apricot glaze over them.
   2. Spoon some of the glaze over the pork chops to ensure they are well-coated.
   3. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the pork chops to absorb the flavors and the glaze to thicken further.

5. Serve:

   1. Transfer the pork chops to serving plates and spoon additional glaze from the skillet over the top.
   2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

• This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. The sweet and tangy glaze complements a variety of sides, making it a versatile and satisfying meal.