rinse pork chops, pat dry and sprinkle both sides with half teaspoon salt, pepper and 1 tblsp thyme, pressing lightly so seasonings adhere.

heat oil in a lg. cast iron or heavy skillet over medium heat until sizzling hot. Add meat and cook 5-6 min. per side, turning only once to brown. Transfer to a platter and cover loosely to keep warm.

add buttter to pan and heat until foamy. Add shallot and thyme and cook 3 min. Add apple, applesauce, broth and half tsp. salt, scraping up browned bits. Cook stirring until apple is tender and sauce reduces slightly, 3-4 min.

Return meat, along with any juices that have collected to pan and cook just until thoroughly heated, about 2 min.