Orange Baked Pork Chops
Juicy pork chops baked with a sweet and tangy orange glaze, accented by brown sugar and mustard. This dish offers a delightful balance of citrus brightness and savory flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions where a comforting yet flavorful meal is desired.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut fat from pork chops, if necessary.
- Place chops in a large shallow baking dish.
- Combine orange juice, salt, pepper, dry mustard, and brown sugar; pour over chops.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Baste the chops occasionally while baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the pork chops in the orange juice mixture for a few hours or overnight. If you don't have dry mustard, Dijon mustard can be a great substitute. You can also use honey instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness. Don't skip the basting step; it helps keep the chops moist and flavorful. For a side dish, consider serving with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to balance the meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the orange baked pork chops with a side of fluffy rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious juices. A light steamed vegetable like broccoli or green beans pairs beautifully with this dish. For a refreshing contrast, consider a simple citrus salad or a crunchy coleslaw. This recipe can also be enjoyed with a glass of white wine for a delightful dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chops in a baking dish with a splash of orange juice to keep them moist, and cover with foil. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This will help maintain their tenderness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Baked Pork Chops contains roughly 106 calories, with 2g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1182mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops instead of thick ones?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops; just reduce the baking time to about 30-40 minutes. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption. Adjusting the cooking time will help prevent them from drying out during baking.
What if I don't have orange juice?
If you don't have orange juice on hand, you can substitute it with apple juice or a mixture of lemon and lime juice for a citrusy flavor. Just keep in mind that the sweetness may vary, so you might want to adjust the amount of brown sugar accordingly.
Can I grill the pork chops instead of baking them?
Absolutely! Grilling the pork chops can add a wonderful smoky flavor. Marinate the chops as directed, then grill them over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Basting with the marinade while grilling will keep them moist and flavorful.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).