Orange Braised Pork Chops
Juicy pork chops are braised in a flavorful orange glaze with tender orange segments, creating a bright, sweet, and savory dish perfect for a lively dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Coat the pork chops with flour and salt, then brown in oil for about 5 minutes on each side.
- Combine brown sugar, ginger, orange peel, and orange juice, then pour over the browned chops.
- Simmer for 45 to 50 minutes or until the meat is tender.
- Add orange slices and heat until the orange sections are just warm.
- Serve with orange rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the pork chops in orange juice and ginger overnight. If you don't have orange sections, you can substitute with canned mandarin oranges, draining them well. To thicken the sauce, consider adding a cornstarch slurry if desired. Always ensure the pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 145°F for best results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the orange braised pork chops over a bed of rice, ideally orange rice, which complements the dish beautifully. A side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad, like Aunt Sue's Overnight Lettuce Salad, adds a nice contrast. This dish also pairs well with crusty bread or Easy Party Rolls for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover braised pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of orange juice to keep them moist. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overcook the meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Braised Pork Chops contains roughly 215 calories, with 6g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value), and protein (12% 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 bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through. Bone-in chops tend to take a bit longer to become tender, so check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
What type of orange juice is best for this recipe?
Freshly squeezed orange juice will yield the best flavor, but you can use store-bought juice as well. Just make sure it's 100% orange juice without added sugars or preservatives for the best results.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance, letting the flavors meld overnight. Just cool the pork chops completely before refrigerating, and reheat gently before serving.
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).