Description
Juicy pan-seared pork chops glazed in a tangy-sweet blueberry balsamic reduction, finished with a swirl of thyme-infused butter. This elegant yet simple dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for searing)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2–3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 tbsp cold unsalted butter (for finishing)
- Optional garnish: Fresh thyme sprigs, extra blueberries
Instructions
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. When hot, add pork chops and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until browned and cooked to 145°F internally.
- Transfer pork chops to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
- In the same pan, lower heat to medium. Add blueberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and thyme sprigs.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes, smashing some berries with the back of a spoon as they soften, until the sauce reduces and thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Remove thyme sprigs and swirl in 1 tbsp cold butter until the glaze is glossy.
- Return pork chops to the skillet or plate them and spoon the blueberry balsamic glaze generously over the top. Garnish with extra blueberries and thyme if desired.
Notes
- Bone-in pork chops can be used but may require a few more minutes of cooking.
- For a smoother sauce, strain out blueberry skins before serving.
- The blueberry balsamic glaze can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, roasted brussels sprouts, wild rice pilaf, or buttery green beans.
- This dish pairs well with a dry red wine or a fruity rosé.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop with glaze